Like humans there is need for dental care for dogs. It need not be a stressful issue, with the right equipment one can conduct this chore without having to book in an extra appointment with the veterinary.
Special attention has to be taken with the equipment which includes toothbrushes, toothpastes, pads, sponges and rinses.
With everything in order the task becomes less complicated and one might actually begin to enjoy quality time with the man’s best friend while brushing dog teeth.
The most essential of the equipment, which in this case is the toothpaste should be of a special kind. Toothpastes formulated for humans should not be used for dogs as they are capable of disturbing your dog’s stomach.
One should use pet toothpaste specially made for pets and in the present day they are a variety to choose from the market.
For professional opinion of the best pet toothpaste, veterinaries have often prescribed toothpastes and rinses that contain chlorohexidine, hexametaphosphate, or zinc gluconate. Flavored toothpaste can also make the brushing of teeth enjoyable for your dog. [Pet Dental Health]
Choosing a toothbrush for your dog depends on the health of your dogs’ teeth and gums, your ability to brush the dog’s teeth and the size of the dog’s mouth.
Toothbrushes meant for pets are ultra soft, smaller and they have a specific shape that is meant for pets. There are also finger toothbrushes which fit onto your finger when brushing your dog’s teeth and these would be easier to use and most advisable.
Going on to the practical details of how to actually brush your dog’s teeth– Firstly this task has to be an enjoyable one for both your dog and yourself. Get your dog to get used to the toothpaste by giving the dog frequently to lick of your finger.
Make sure you praise your dog each time it does that and give it a nice treat until it finally gets used to the toothpaste. If it refuses then try different flavours until you find the one it prefers to the rest.
The next step would be to get your dog comfortable with something in its mouth that it is not going to chew. First clean the front canines as these are the easiest to access and make sure you give your dog a treat and a good pat on the head.
Once your dog gets used to the concept of the toothpaste and having something in its mouth you can now insert the toothbrush at a comfortable angle and brush your dog’s teeth while talking to it in a happy voice and when the task is done, a good treat is always called for.
