Originally posted on March 21, 2022 @ 1:54 pm
Among the most important things to remember is to ensure your dog gets its teeth brushed regularly. This can help prevent tartar build-up and tooth decay. Dogs are adventurous animals that use their teeth regularly. Failure to ensure their dental safety leads to dental complications that will need urgent attention from the vet.
To avoid such, there are certain do’s and don’ts that dog owners should adhere to. Here are some of them.
Do’s
Use Dog Toothpaste
Many dog owners may not be aware of the importance of using dog toothpaste when brushing their pet’s teeth. Unlike human toothpaste, designed to foam and sud, dog toothpaste is safe for dogs to swallow and does not contain any harmful ingredients that could make them sick.
Not only does brushing help keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy, but it can also help prevent bad breath and other dental problems from developing.
Get Regular Professional Cleanings
Your pet dog is a part of your family, so you want to ensure they’re as healthy as possible. One way to help keep your furry friend healthy is by getting them professional cleanings regularly. Better still, get them some vet recommended dental dog chews for fresh breath and general teeth cleaning.
Like humans, dogs are susceptible to plaque and tartar build-up on their teeth. This can lead to gum disease, which can be painful and cause other health problems. Getting your dog’s teeth professionally cleaned will help remove this build-up and keep their gums healthy.
Watch Out For Signs Of Dental Problem
You should brush your dog’s teeth daily to prevent plaque and tartar build-up. Plaque is defined as the bacteria that are sticky and form on teeth. Tartar is a hardened plaque allowed to accumulate.
Failure to remove plaque and tartar can eventually lead to periodontal disease, an infection of the gums and tissues around the teeth. Periodontal disease can cause pain, inflammation, and eventually tooth loss.
Brush Teeth Regularly
One of the most important things you can do for your dog is regularly brushing their teeth. If left unchecked, plaque can lead to gum disease and other health problems. Regular brushing also helps keep your dog’s breath smelling fresh.
There are several different toothbrushes available for dogs and toothpaste made specifically for them. You can shop around for most of the items mentioned at your local pet stores. Start by brushing your dog’s teeth once a day, and gradually work up to twice a day if needed.
Regular Checkups
Dogs need regular dental checkups just like humans do. Like us, their teeth can get cavities and other problems if not correctly taken care of. Dental issues in dogs can cause other health problems, so it’s essential to make sure your dog’s teeth are healthy.
Don’ts
Forget To Floss
Flossing is an essential part of maintaining your dog’s oral health. Like humans, dogs can develop plaque and tartar on their teeth, leading to gum disease and other problems.
While brushing your dog’s teeth is an excellent way to help prevent these issues, flossing is also essential to remove food particles and bacteria hiding in hard-to-reach places.
Use Baking Soda Or Salt As Toothpaste
Baking soda and salt are two common household ingredients often used as toothpaste for dogs. However, there are a few reasons why you shouldn’t use them on your dog’s teeth.
First, baking soda and salt can be abrasive to your dog’s teeth. This can damage the enamel of their teeth and even cause pain or discomfort.
Second, baking soda and salt can also upset your dog’s stomach if they swallow too much of it. Finally, some dogs may be allergic to either ingredient.
Use Human Toothpaste
These products can be toxic to dogs and can cause stomach upset. Toothpaste made for humans is not safe for dogs. The ingredients in human toothpaste, including fluoride, are too harsh for a dog’s delicate mouth. In addition, the minty flavor of toothpaste can cause stomach upset in dogs.
Neglect Other Forms of dental Care
In addition to brushing, you should also have your dog’s teeth professionally cleaned by a veterinarian at least once a year. You should also watch for dental problems, such as bad breath, excessive drooling, or trouble eating.
Another form of dental care for dogs is mouthwashes and rinses. These products can help to freshen your dog’s breath and reduce plaque and tartar build-up.
Use Your Fingers As a Toothbrush
Your fingers can hurt your dog’s gums and irritate. Instead, use a canine toothbrush designed specifically for dogs. One of the dangers of using your fingers as a toothbrush for your dog’s teeth is that you may accidentally poke them in the eye.
Another danger is that you may not be able to clean all of your teeth, which could lead to dental problems.
Conclusion
Keeping a dog as a pet is more than walking or playing with it. Their dental care is among the most sensitive areas that need frequent attention. Organize for regular professional checkups to ensure your dog’s dental health is at par. Get to know all that dental care of dogs entails to avoid mishandling your dog’s teeth.
