How to brush your dog’s teeth and why you should do it

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Why you should brush your dog’s teeth

If you don’t brush your dog’s teeth, they will almost certainly develop some degree of dental disease as they get older.  Some breeds will get it much worse than others and at a relatively younger age. Not only is bad breath unpleasant to live with; it also means they are developing long term problems which cannot be reversed. Ultimately your precious pet will be in discomfort and may need dental treatment including general anaesthesia and extractions.

As we said previously, if you find it impossible to brush your dog’s teeth, for whatever reason,  don’t give up – please ask our friendly team of vets and nurses who will be able to give you advice.

Top tips on how to brush your dog’s teeth

Buy your tooth brushing kit (brush, finger glove and toothpaste) from your vet practice, or at least ask which type they recommend. Never use human toothpaste for dogs.

  • Start getting your dog used to this as soon as you can. If you have a puppy, that’s great; if you have an older dog, follow the same tips – it might just take longer to achieve.
  • Your aim should be that your teeth cleaning sessions should be associated with a positive experience.
  • Choose a time when your dog is comfortable and relaxed.
  • Take it slowly and keep sessions short. Stop while your pup/dog is still happy.
  • Stroke your dog’s cheek gently back and forth. Do only this for the first few days.
  • Introduce the toothpaste on your finger and allow your dog to lick it off.
  • After your dog has shown that they like the taste of the tooth paste, start to run your finger along the inside of the mouth.
  • If your dog is comfortable with this you can put some paste on the finger glove or the brush and allow them to lick it off. Don’t put the brush in their mouth yet.
  • Once they’re comfortable with licking the brush/ glove, you can introduce the brush into the mouth. Start by targeting the front teeth, making circular movements and allowing frequent licks! (so they are continuously rewarded).
  • Gradually as your dog accepts having the canines and incisors brushed, you can move onto the molars.
  • After a couple of weeks, you should be able to brush without fuss! If you can, concentrate on where tooth meets gum.
  • You should aim to brush your dog’s teeth twice daily – if possible!

Regular teeth brushing will prevent the build-up of tartar, but it will not usually remove it. If, therefore, there is already a lot of yellow/ brown tartar present, your dog may need a scale and polish completed by a veterinary professional prior to you being able to start your preventative brushing. This is often the case where an adult dog has been re-homed or rescued.

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