How to Handle Your Dog's Dental Care
Does your furry friend start playing hide-and-seek every time they see a toothbrush, or clench their teeth tightly refusing to open their mouth? No matter what tricks you try, if your dog just won't cooperate with tooth brushing, what can you do? Or maybe you think brushing your dog's teeth is too troublesome and would rather let them be carefree.
When it comes to caring for our pets, oral health is often overlooked. Many dog owners feel frustrated about how to effectively brush their dog's teeth. The truth is, if you are not diligent with dental care, plaque can easily build up and turn into tartar. Over time, this will cause your dog's breath to become increasingly foul.
Moreover, if left untreated, there is a high risk of severe gum recession, tooth loss, and even periodontal disease. Once periodontal disease sets in, it can have further negative effects on other parts of the body, such as the heart and kidneys. Therefore, maintaining your dog's oral hygiene is absolutely essential and should never be neglected!
How to Choose Toothbrushing Tools for Your Dog
When selecting a toothbrush for your dog, the size of the brush should primarily be based on your dog's body size. Choosing the right size helps ensure a more thorough cleaning. For example, large breeds like Golden Retrievers and Huskies are better suited to larger toothbrushes, while small breeds such as Dachshunds, Chihuahuas, and Corgis do best with smaller brush heads—similar to those designed for infants and toddlers.
Additionally, when picking the bristles, opt for ones that are soft yet resilient. It's important to avoid brushes with hard bristles, as these can accidentally hurt your dog's gums and teeth.
The goal of brushing your dog's teeth is the same as it is for humans: to physically remove dental plaque through brushing motions, which helps reduce the formation of tartar. Once you have selected the proper toothbrush, it's okay if you don't use pet-specific toothpaste. As long as your dog is willing to have their teeth brushed, even brushing with just water can be effective.
Since dogs may initially be very uncomfortable with having a toothbrush inside their mouth, a simpler alternative tool can be used at first, such as a piece of gauze or a finger toothbrush cover. Wrap your index finger with gauze, moisten it with water or toothpaste, and then gently massage your dog's gums while rubbing away plaque with your finger. This simpler method is easier to apply pressure with and is generally better accepted by dogs, making it a great starting point for new pet parents.
However, the downside of this simpler method is that it cannot clean dental plaque as thoroughly as a toothbrush can—especially in harder-to-reach areas like the tooth roots and back teeth.
Important Things to Note Before Brushing Your Dog's Teeth
Before brushing your dog's teeth, it's essential to first confirm that your dog's oral health is in good condition. Starting to brush without checking can sometimes do more harm than good. If your furry friend has an unhealthy mouth, they might be suffering from periodontal diseases or pain symptoms. Even if you brush their teeth carefully, it can cause them discomfort and stress.
Therefore, it is recommended to thoroughly examine your dog's oral condition before brushing, or take them to a veterinary clinic for a professional check-up. The ideal frequency for brushing your dog's teeth is once in the morning and once at night, just like with humans. Regular brushing helps prevent cavities and gum inflammation.
While brushing, be sure to watch for any abnormal bleeding of the gums. Additionally, try to schedule a vet visit every six months to have your dog's oral health professionally evaluated.
How to Guide Your Dog to Brush Its Teeth – Positive Reinforcement Method
If you are determined to establish a good habit of brushing your dog's teeth, it can actually be achieved patiently through training. Just like teaching a young child to love brushing their teeth, it's not something that happens in a day or two, but it's definitely not difficult either!
The very first step is to check your dog's oral cavity before starting. When it's time to brush, never forcefully open your dog's mouth or shove the toothbrush directly inside.
In the beginning, you can interact with your dog by using a piece of gauze or a finger brush. Try gently touching your dog's mouth multiple times. Then, attempt to slowly introduce the toothbrush into your dog's mouth so they can get used to the feeling of the brush inside.
With patient training over the course of about one to two weeks, once your dog gets accustomed to it, they will be much less resistant. Remember, if at any point your dog shows signs of resistance or dislike, don't force them. Otherwise, it will be much harder to get your dog to open their mouth for brushing next time.
Generally speaking, it is easier to train puppies to brush their teeth. For adult or senior dogs, it will require more time and patience.
How to Train Your Dog to Enjoy Teeth Brushing Using Positive Reinforcement
Furthermore, when training your dog to brush its teeth, you can try using a "positive reinforcement brushing method." This involves using treats or dental chews to help your dog gradually adapt to a daily teeth brushing routine and even enjoy the process. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide:
1. Gently Touch the Mouth and Face Multiple Times
Some dogs dislike having your hand near their mouth and may become scared or irritable. Using positive reinforcement means helping your dog slowly get used to having their face touched and gradually become willing to accept teeth brushing.
2. Introduce the Toothbrush and Gently Tap the Teeth
To help your dog understand what you're about to do, formally introduce the toothbrush or finger brush. Let them see the toothbrush often, and at set times, briefly tap their face and teeth with it. This will create a sense of safety around the toothbrush and help familiarize your dog with it.
3. Gently Lift the Mouth's Corner
Before lifting your dog's lip, first show them the toothbrush again, then briefly tap their face and teeth. If your dog shows no resistance during this process, you can try placing the toothbrush inside their mouth and begin brushing.
When lifting your dog's lip, there's no need to open the mouth wide. Simply gently pull back the cheek to the side, insert the toothbrush or finger brush to clean, and don't forget to reach the back teeth as well!
As long as you can complete these steps patiently and consistently, your dog will gradually become willing to let you brush their teeth. Remember to repeat each step persistently and patiently—with time and gradual progression, you will be able to comfortably brush your dog's teeth!
Dog Brushing Tips – Use a 45-Degree Angle and Circular Motions
The most important point when brushing your dog's teeth is to hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the teeth. Using gentle back-and-forth circular motions, brush each area of the teeth at least 10 times. This is the same principle we use when brushing our own teeth: make sure to thoroughly clean the gum line, which is where the teeth and gums meet. This helps effectively remove plaque and prevent the formation of tartar.
Since dogs use their tongues to clean the inside surfaces of their teeth, it is generally sufficient to focus on brushing the outer sides of the canine and back teeth where plaque tends to accumulate. However, if your dog is particularly cooperative during brushing, you can also spend some extra time cleaning the inner surfaces. That said, if your dog is uncomfortable or resistant to brushing, there's no need to force the issue.
Important Tips for Brushing Your Dog's Teeth
Additionally, if toothbrushing usually goes smoothly but one day your dog suddenly starts avoiding a certain spot and doesn't want you to brush there, that area might be having a problem. In that case, it's important to take your dog to the veterinarian for a check-up as soon as possible.
Finally, a gentle reminder to all pet parents: brushing your dog's teeth daily and taking care of their oral health is extremely important! Besides keeping their teeth clean, it's also a great way to check your dog's mouth regularly for any issues.
Spending just ten minutes a day playing a toothbrushing game with your furry friend can help them learn to love having their teeth brushed. This daily routine will ensure your beloved pet stays healthy and happy for years to come.
