Encourage Healthy Maintenance of Your Dog’s Teeth With These Tips

We all know that we’re supposed to brush our teeth twice a day, but did you know that the same is true for our dogs? Just like humans, dogs need to have their teeth brushed regularly in order to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease. Let’s be honest, who has the time or patience to brush their dog’s teeth every day? If you’re like most people, this task is not at the top of your list. Fortunately, there are some easy things you can do to help keep your dog’s chompers healthy, read on for some ideas.

REGULAR TEETH BRUSHING

Of course, one of the best ways to keep your dog’s teeth healthy is to brush them regularly. We might not have it in us to do it every day but it is recommended to do it at least once a week. Twice a week is even better. Just be sure to use a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. The best time to start brushing your dog’s teeth is when he or she is a puppy. That way, it will become part of your dog’s regular routine and won’t be such a chore for either of you. If you didn’t start brushing when your dog was a puppy, don’t worry, it’s never too late to start. Just be patient and go slowly at first until your dog gets used to the idea.

FEED THEM CRUNCHY FOODS

Chewing is great for dogs’ teeth, as it helps remove plaque and bacteria that can cause cavities and gum disease. A strong, crunchy kibble is a great option to help them clean their teeth on their own. Be sure that the food you choose for your dog is safe for extended chewing so that you do not risk them ingesting something they shouldn’t. So stock up on crunchy kibble and let your pup chow down.

GIVE THEM DENTAL BONES OR CHEWS

Dental bones and chews are designed to help remove plaque and tartar from dogs’ teeth, and they’re basically like doggie toothbrushes. Just make sure to choose a product that’s specifically designed for dental health, as some chews can actually damage your dog’s teeth if they’re not careful. Things like rawhide bones are dangerous for dogs, so it is best to avoid these. Bully sticks are also a great idea to get as they are high in protein, easily digestible, and take a while to chew through so they help clean your dog’s teeth just as well.

REGULAR VET CHECKUPS

Just like humans, dogs need to see the dentist now and then. During a routine vet visit, your vet will check for any signs of dental problems or gum diseases and recommend any necessary treatments. Checkups are especially important as your dog gets older, as plaque and tartar buildup can become more severe with age. Your vet may recommend helpful dental products that can make cleaning your dog’s teeth easier. If your dog’s teeth are particularly dirty, your vet may recommend professional cleaning.

CONCLUSION

Brushing your dog’s teeth might not be at the top of your to-do list, but it’s important to keep their pearly whites healthy. By feeding them crunchy foods, giving them dental bones or chews, and bringing them in for regular checkups, you can help keep your furry friend’s smile sparkling in between brushings. These helpful tips are easy to follow and can make a big difference in the dental health of your pet.