Teeth are one of the essential parts of dogs’ body structure. They use them basically for biting and chewing food, but not only. Dogs love to play, holding the toy with their teeth, and wrestling with the owner for it. Problems with the teeth and the oral cavity condition affect most dogs reported to the veterinarian. Keeping your pet’s teeth healthy should be part of your dog’s grooming routine.
What to look for
Caring for the proper hygiene of our dog’s teeth does not require unique products. In addition to the accessories that first come to mind – toothbrushes and toothpaste – our pet’s teeth are greatly influenced by their diet. Let’s start from the beginning:
Brush and paste
If the teeth are not in bad condition, toothpaste and a toothbrush are enough for proper care. It must be made of soft, synthetic bristles. If our dog runs away in panic at the very sight of the brush, we can reach for unique overlays slipped on the finger, finished with a cleaner. Choosing a toothpaste is first guided by the pet’s preferences. If the taste is unacceptable to the dog, brushing his teeth will be extremely difficult.
Diet
A dog’s diet directly impacts the condition of his teeth. We should keep a balance between giving our pets dry and wet food. When biting complex pieces, plaque wears off on its own. By feeding the dog only wet food, we deprive him of the ability to take care of his teeth on his own. On the market, we can also find dog food containing ingredients such as calcium, which inhibits the build-up of tartar.
Teethers for removing plaque
A good solution is to give dogs all kinds of chews created specifically for mechanical abrasion of dental plaque. Special treats are also available in stores, which not only make dogs happy to eat but also positively affect the condition of their teeth.
Regular brushing and diet, above all
Improper dog nutrition and neglect of oral hygiene are among the most common causes of dental problems. If you notice tartar on your pet’s teeth, it is worth visiting the vet for a check-up. It will help determine the cause of the problem and how to treat it.
The very process of brushing teeth can be highly stressful for a dog. Let him get used to the toothbrush well in advance and familiarize himself with its smell and structure. The same applies to the paste, the taste of which must suit the dog. It is optimal if the washing process does not exceed 40 seconds. Remember to reward your dog for patience and good behaviour after the procedure.
Don’t underestimate your dog’s oral hygiene!
Taking care of the dog’s oral hygiene is often neglected and downplayed by the owners. Failing your teeth can lead to many serious diseases. Cleaning a dog’s teeth does not require specialized equipment or training. It is essential to do this regularly and systematically. In this way, our pet can enjoy beautiful and healthy teeth.