Well, like humans, dental and oral care is important for dogs too. As the dogs may also get some serious health issues related to their teeth or oral hygiene, it is better to help them avoid these issues which can be done by taking care of their teeth. Along with other common oral diseases, the dogs may develop periodontal disease. About 70% of the dogs develop this disease and it can cause serious problems to their overall health if not treated well.
Vets suggest you should brush your dog’s teeth at least thrice a day if they have developed an oral disease. If their oral health is better, you might consider brushing their teeth after every 2-3 days.
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How to Brush Dog’s Teeth? Do’s & Don’ts
Consider the following suggestions while brushing your dog’s teeth.
- Set your routine first – It is recommended to set up a routine when they are younger. Adult dogs may give you a tough time if they are not familiar with teeth brushing.
- Use a toothbrush with soft bristles – You are not meant to hurt your dog’s gums so a brush with soft bristles is highly recommended, especially for puppies. You may also use children’s toothbrushes that usually have soft bristles.
- Use flavored toothpaste – This way it will be easier for you to encourage your puppies and dogs towards regular teeth brushing.
- Do not use human toothpaste – Human kinds of toothpaste usually have chemicals that may be toxic to your dog. And if mistakenly, they inhale it, it may turn into a disaster.
- Do the tricks – Make your puppies familiar with the brushing routine by rubbing your finger on their upper teeth and gums.
- Start with a small amount – Before brushing their teeth, let your dog taste a small amount of toothpaste so he gets familiar with it.
- Brush in the right way – Brush his teeth in a circular motion to ensure the maximum cleanliness of teeth and gums.
- Distract them during the job – Keep him engaged by talking with him while you brush his teeth.
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How to choose a Toothpaste for your dog?
There are a number of toothpaste brands available with different flavors. Before buying toothpaste for your dog, make sure it is good enough to inhibit plaque formation as well as the ability to eliminate mouth odors. You can either choose one by checking the reviews online or asking your vet.
How to make Dog Toothpaste at Home?
Want to make an all-organic toothpaste for your dog at home? Given below is an easy recipe to make one. You can easily make dog toothpaste by using coconut oil and turmeric. Check below for the recipe.
Ingredients: 225 grams of coconut oil – 1/2 teaspoon of ground turmeric – 1/2 tablespoon of ground & dried kelp – 1/8 tablespoon of parsley flakes
- Melt 225 grams of coconut oil in a microwave oven or a hot water bath. The coconut oil contains antibacterial components and fights well against bad breath and cavities.
- Now, add 1/2 teaspoon of ground turmeric. It prevents plaque and whitens the teeth naturally.
- Add 1/2 tablespoon of ground, dried kelp. Kelp is seaweed and has many health benefits.
- Add 1/8 tablespoon of Parsley Flakes. It kills bacteria as well as freshens your dog’s breath.
- Now stir all the ingredients until it becomes a paste with everything combined and pour it into a glass jar.
- That’s all.
Final Words:
Whether you choose branded toothpaste or make one by yourself at home, you are recommended to ask your vet first as they may prescribe you the best option for your dog.