Dental disease in dogs comes in many forms. One of the most common (and well-known) is gum or periodontal disease. Dogs can also develop tooth fractures, infections, and even tooth decay. Many of these problems aren’t instantly recognizable, and pet parents might not know anything’s wrong until the situation worsens.
All dogs are at risk of developing dental disease. Still, some breeds (brachycephalic breeds in particular) have a much higher risk. That includes English and French bulldogs, pugs, Boston terriers, and Shih Tzus. Chihuahuas, miniature poodles, and Yorkshire terriers are also prone to tartar buildup and dental issues.
Periodontal disease is the most common dental issue affecting dogs. Much as it does in humans, the condition begins with gingivitis. Plaque and tartar accumulate on the surfaces of a dog’s teeth, irritating the gum tissue. That triggers an inflammatory response, which causes the gums to redden and swell.
Without treatment, gingivitis evolves into periodontal disease. In addition to gum inflammation, dogs may experience bone loss in their jaws, loose teeth, and tooth loss. Bacteria can also travel into the bloodstream, making their way (and causing damage) to vital organs like the liver, kidneys, and heart.
Dogs like to chew. While chew toys are great for satisfying chewing urges (and even keeping teeth clean), objects like bones, antlers, nylon chews, and pigs’ hooves can cause tooth damage, especially if the dog chews aggressively.
There are two types of tooth fractures in dogs: uncomplicated and complicated. An uncomplicated fracture only exposes dentin, the layer beneath the enamel, and results in tooth sensitivity. A complicated fracture leaves the pulp of the affected tooth (which contains blood vessels and nerves) exposed.
Though more uncommon, dogs can develop tooth decay. It happens when the acids in dental plaque eat away at the enamel of their teeth, leading to the formation of holes known as cavities. The acids can eat into the inner layers given enough time, allowing bacteria to get inside the tooth.
Tooth infections can develop from tooth fractures. Bacteria get into the tooth, multiply, and attack and destroy the tooth’s pulp. Eventually, they can start leaking out of the rotten tooth and into the bone. A pocket may form to contain the infection, resulting in an abscess.
A tooth infection can also develop as a result of periodontal disease. These infections form along the outside of the teeth through the supportive tissues that support them.
Similar to human children, puppies have baby (deciduous) teeth. These teeth loosen and fall out, making room for the adult teeth to emerge. In some cases, the baby teeth don’t fall out, but that doesn’t stop the adult teeth from coming in. The problem is that there’s no space for them. In addition to pain, retained deciduous teeth can result in crooked adult teeth.
An oral tumor is an abnormal growth that develops in a dog’s mouth. Some grow slowly and don’t spread (often benign or non-cancerous), while others grow rapidly and travel to other parts of the mouth or body (cancerous). They typically occur due to several risk factors, including genetics and the environment.
The earliest stages of dental disease aren’t always noticeable. Dogs don’t tend to exhibit signs or symptoms until their condition has progressed. One of the most common signs is oral pain. A dog might not cry or complain, but pet parents may notice:
Oral tumors often show similar signs, as do foreign bodies stuck between a dog’s teeth. If a pet parent notices anything unusual, they should contact a vet right away.
Treatment for dental disease depends on the specific issue and the dog’s age. A thorough oral evaluation and dental X-rays can help a vet determine the best course of action. Treatments may include:
Depending on the severity of an issue, a dog may require treatment from a vet specializing in oral reconstruction.
The best way to deal with dental disease is for pet parents to prevent it from developing in the first place. Some top dog dental health tips include:
If pet parents have any questions or concerns about their dog’s dental health or need additional dog dental health care tips, they can always contact the Fuzzy veterinary support team 24/7 for further advice.
Generally speaking, most treats are just that — treats. Others, however, pull double duty. In addition to being a delicious addition to a dog’s day, they work to minimize oral bacteria and plaque, reducing the risk of gum disease and other oral health issues. Those treats are known as dog dental chews.
Like humans, dogs have bacteria in their mouths. Over time, these bacteria mix with food particles to form plaque, a sticky film that adheres to their teeth. Eventually, it begins to harden into tartar or calculus. These substances irritate the gum tissue and trigger inflammation, leading to the earliest stage of gum disease (gingivitis).
Without treatment, gum disease worsens. Dogs can experience bone loss in their jaws, which compromises the stability of their teeth. It may be difficult or painful for them to eat. In more advanced stages of gum disease, bacteria can travel into a dog’s bloodstream and increase their risk of heart disease and other issues with vital organs.
Around 80% of dogs have some form of gum disease or other oral health issues by age three. Good dental hygiene is crucial. Daily toothbrushing is one of the best ways to protect a dog’s teeth and gums. Supplements like dog dental chews can help, too.
Dog dental chews are specially-formulated treats that taste great and help to combat bacteria and plaque buildup in a dog’s mouth. They’re available in different shapes and sizes, allowing pet parents to find ones that work best for their dogs.
Dental chews work in a couple of different ways. They may contain various ingredients that help to protect oral health. For instance:
Many treats also contain ingredients such as chicken and apples. These ingredients make them taste just as good as regular treats. Another way dog dental chews help remove plaque and bacteria is by taking advantage of a dog’s natural chewing. Oravet treats and Cleanz-a-Dent Dental Chews scrub a dog’s teeth as they chew on them, effectively reducing harmful buildup. In a way, they’re kind of like natural toothbrushes. That doesn’t mean they can replace actual toothbrushing.
Ideally, pet parents should brush their dog’s teeth once a day. Brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and pet-friendly toothpaste is the best way to minimize the risk of gum disease and other oral health issues.
Some dogs do great with brushing. They’ll sit still almost every day for their pet parents to clean their teeth. Other dogs aren’t thrilled with the idea of having their teeth brushed. They may not sit still long enough or may refuse to let their pet parent touch their teeth altogether. That’s where dog dental chews come in. Even if a pet parent can’t brush their dog’s teeth every day, the treats provide additional support for gum disease prevention.
Now let’s take a look at a few tips for using dog dental chews that can help pet parents ensure the best possible results:
Using dog dental chews in conjunction with regular tooth brushing helps pet parents protect their dog’s oral and overall health. They’re an easy addition to a dog’s daily life. And since they taste like any other dog treat, dogs will enjoy them and won’t even know they’re doing something good for their teeth.
Fuzzy has a variety of dog dental chews and other dental health care products that allow pet parents to help their canines live healthier lives. As a Fuzzy member, pet parents also have access to the 24/7 Live Vet Chat feature that connects them with a professional vet any time, day or night. Sign up to become a Fuzzy member today!
A dental water additive is a solution designed to kill oral bacteria and control dental plaque and tartar to promote better oral health. It’s essentially a consumable “mouthwash” that pet parents add to their dog’s water bowl. The solution helps to freshen a dog’s breath, which can be a relief to pet parents, and reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
Pet parents have several water additive options. Some are flavorless and odorless, so even the pickiest dog won’t notice them. Others have flavors added. CET Aquadent Fr3sh Dental Solution contains a mint aroma, which can add extra freshness to a dog’s breath. Considering their dog’s preferences and habits can help a pet parent select which type might be best.
One of the most important things that pet parents should keep in mind is that water additives are a supplement. They aren’t a replacement for brushing a dog’s teeth.
While the exact ingredients in dog dental water additives can vary between products, they’re non-toxic and 100% safe to consume. For instance, the Oxyfresh Dog & Cat Oral Hygiene Solution contains:
One of the best features of dental water additives, other than their ability to promote a healthier mouth, is that they’re easy to use. Generally, all a pet parent needs to do is add a capful to their dog’s water bowl. Some solutions have more specific instructions, so pet parents should always check the label of their chosen product.
Pet parents can use water additives daily as part of their dog’s overall dental health regimen.
Gum disease is one of the most common diseases dogs face. Approximately 80% of canines have some form of it or another oral health condition by age 3. Without treatment, gum disease only continues to worsen, increasing a dog’s risk of numerous issues, including:
While daily toothbrushing is ideal, it’s not always possible. A dog may be having an “off” day and decide they don’t want to cooperate, which would make brushing thoroughly challenging. Dental water additives are an easy preventative that pet parents can use to support their dog’s dental health.
Good dental hygiene is just as important for dogs as it is for humans. Here are a few additional tips for pet parents to help promote optimal oral health in their canines.
Daily toothbrushing is one of the best ways to prevent gum disease in dogs. A soft-bristled toothbrush, pet-friendly toothpaste, and a bit of patience are all a pet parent needs.
If a pet parent has never tried brushing their dog’s teeth before, they should start slowly. A gradual introduction can help a dog get used to the habit. Treats to reward positive behavior won’t hurt, either.
Dog dental chews leverage a dog’s chewing to help keep their teeth clean and healthy. Available in different shapes and sizes, chews help to loosen plaque and bacteria while freshening a dog’s breath at the same time. Like water additives, these treats are supplements to brushing.
Another way pet parents can help prevent gum disease is with professional cleanings. A vet performs the procedure under anesthesia, which allows them to evaluate the dog’s mouth thoroughly and ensure proper cleaning.
Generally, dogs only require one professional cleaning a year. However, depending on the dog, a vet may recommend two.
Good dental hygiene is essential for maintaining a dog’s overall health and wellness. Dog dental water additives, in conjunction with daily toothbrushing, can help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other serious health conditions. They can also help give a dog fresher breath, which can be a relief for pet parents with overly affectionate canines.
Fuzzy offers numerous products to help pet parents ensure their dogs and cats live happy, healthy lives. The 24/7 vet chat feature also allows pet parents to access professional vet advice at any time, day or night. Become a Fuzzy member today to get started!
Dogs might do their best to avoid showing that they’re hurting, but they’ll often display subtle signs that something isn’t quite right, and pet parents should immediately address dental pain in dogs. Minor dental issues can quickly worsen, resulting in more severe problems down the line. Prompt treatment can restore a dog’s oral health, improving their overall well-being and quality of life.
A dog’s teeth are vital. In addition to enabling the biting and chewing of food, teeth allow a dog to grasp and hold items. They can even play a role in defense, if necessary.
Like humans, dogs have strong teeth. However, they aren’t indestructible. In fact, approximately 80% of dogs exhibit signs of dental disease by the time they’re three years old. Gum inflammation alone can cause severe discomfort, but other dogs have issues like tooth fractures, tooth infections, and oral tumors.
There are several causes of dental pain in dogs. Here are a few of the most common:
Like humans, dogs can develop plaque on their teeth. Eventually, it can even harden into tartar, a solid substance that can be nearly impossible for a pet parent to remove on their own.
Plaque and tartar can irritate the gums, causing them to become inflamed. Known as gingivitis, this is the first stage of gum disease. Over time, it can worsen, leading to gum recession. A dog may face tooth sensitivity, increased pain, loose teeth, infections, and more.
The acids that oral bacteria produce can wear away tooth enamel, increasing a dog’s risk of developing tooth decay and cavities. Eventually, a hole can wear into the enamel, increasing the risks of tooth sensitivity, infections, and severe discomfort.
A dog can crack or chip a tooth by gnawing on something hard (bone, antlers, etc.), eating dinner, experiencing dental/oral trauma, and more. These issues can leave the root of the affected tooth exposed, which can cause pain. They also leave a route open for oral bacteria, which can increase a dog’s risk of infection.
Puppies loose their puppy (deciduous) teeth and gain their permanent adult teeth. However, some puppies don’t lose one or more of those temporary teeth, which results in overcrowding. Crowded teeth push on one another, which can trigger pain. They can also increase the risk of plaque buildup, gum disease, and other dental issues.
An oral tumor is an abnormal growth in a dog’s mouth. Some grow slowly and don’t spread (benign). Others may grow and spread quickly, which often indicates cancer. Both kinds of tumors can cause significant pain.
Some breeds are more likely to develop dental issues than others. For instance, smaller breed puppies are more likely to develop overcrowding than their larger counterparts. Brachycephalic breeds like pugs, English bulldogs, and Shih Tzus are more likely to develop tartar buildup and dental issues, as are toy poodles, Chihuahuas, and Yorkies.
Dog dental pain will look different from one dog to the next, and it often varies based on the severity of the issue and the dog’s personality. Common symptoms include:
Treatment for dental pain in dogs varies based on the age of the affected dog. Generally, X-rays can help reveal the condition of the gums and the teeth below the gum line. In minor cases, a thorough professional cleaning may be enough. In more severe cases, a dog might need a root canal, tooth extraction, or even treatment from a professional vet that specializes in reconstruction.
Pet parents can help their dogs maintain optimal oral health at home with good dental hygiene. Regular brushing can help to eliminate plaque and bacterial buildup from the teeth.
Other ways of preventing dental issues — and, therefore, dental pain — include:
At the first signs of dog dental pain, a pet parent should contact their regular vet or an online vet for dog health advice. A thorough examination can help pet parents get to the root of the issue. This also ensures that the pet parent can get their dog the treatment they need, as well as recommendations for maintaining healthy dog teeth.
With good oral care, the risk of dental issues decreases, and dogs can live healthier lives.
Luckily, there are plenty of dog teeth cleaning products and services pet parents can use to improve their health and their breath at the same time.
Just like humans go to the dentist annually, dogs should, too. Pet parents can schedule their dog’s teeth to be cleaned at their annual vet appointment to avoid dental health issues. The vet will remove plaque and tartar and check their mouth for any signs of more dangerous gum and teeth issues.
An annual cleaning can only do so much, of course. Daily maintenance is crucial to preventing bad dog breath and dental problems.
One of the best pieces of dog health advice many vets give is to have pet parents brush their dog’s teeth as often as possible. Training their dog to allow them to brush their teeth will pay off in the long run with fewer vet bills and a better-smelling dog.
To make the training process easier, pet parents can start with a Dental Hygiene Kit designed for pets. These kits are built with the dog’s comfort and health in mind to make it easy for at-home care.
If brushing daily is impractical, another option pet parents enjoy using are dog Dental Chews. These tasty treats aren’t just appealing to the dog’s taste buds, but they also work to remove plaque and build healthy dog teeth. They can enjoy one to two dental chews a day to keep their breath fresh between brushings.
Some dogs are simply picky about what goes in their mouths. For pets that reject tooth brushes, a dog Breath Spray can help keep their breath smelling better. The spray kills bacteria in their mouth, which removes one of the major sources of smelly breath. Spraying it into their mouth once a day, covering their teeth, gums, and cheeks, is an instant way to freshen their breath.
Finally, putting a water additive in their normal water dish is one of the easiest strategies for how to freshen a dog’s breath every time they take a drink. These solutions can help ward off tartar, plaque, and germs with just a few drops a day. They can be a great choice if pet parents want a low-maintenance way to maintain their dog’s breath.
Dogs deserve a healthy mouth. For help resolving other breath and dental health problems, pet parents can use Fuzzy’s 24/7 Live Vet Chat to speak with a licensed vet.
Bad dog breath doesn’t just ruin snuggle time. It may also be a sign of a problem with the dog’s system. Fortunately, with the right bad dog breath home remedy, many pet parents can resolve the issue.
The first step is to figure out why the dog’s breath stinks so bad. Despite the rumors, it’s not just “the way dogs are.”
For most dogs, the cause of bad breath is usually a problem with the teeth or digestion.
Poor oral hygiene is one of the most common causes of bad dog breath. Many pet parents don’t think to clean their dogs’ teeth as regularly as their own, and the result is the same as if a human stopped brushing.
When a dog’s teeth don’t get attention, plaque and tartar build up — creating the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. And those bacteria can be pretty stinky.
In time, poor dog dental care can lead to gum disease and dangerous oral infections. Dogs with severe gum disease end up with tooth loss and infections that ooze pus. It’s as painful as it sounds, and it leads to very bad breath.
Dogs can also develop bad breath because of digestive issues. It’s often a “you are what you eat” kind of thing. Dogs can have pretty disgusting snacking habits — and if a pup gets into the compost pile or eats poop, their breath will be a dead giveaway.
Doggy indigestion can also lead to bad breath because of acid reflux. Stomach acid doesn’t smell pleasant, and neither does the partially digested food pet parents smell from a burpy or gassy dog.
Fortunately, whether the culprit is the tummy or the teeth, there are steps pet parents can take to make it better.
The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends pet parents brush their dog’s teeth daily if possible, or at least several times a week.
We get it — a lot of pet parents aren’t comfortable with the process, and the dogs aren’t always thrilled about it either. It’s okay. Pet and parent can acclimate to tooth brushing together, starting with a gentle exploration of the brush and toothpaste:
The dog will get used to it in time, especially if he associates it with fun “together time.”
Here’s one of the dog dental health tips our canine friends love best. If a dog doesn’t love brushing or their teeth need extra help, try dental chews.
These tasty treats reduce the buildup of plaque and tartar while freshening the breath. Some are particularly designed for tartar control, which is great for pet parents who are just starting the dog dental care process.
The teeth stay cleaner and the dog enjoys a tasty treat. It’s a win-win all around.
Dental supplements also support healthy dog teeth, and they’re easy to add to a dog’s routine. Many of them come in convenient spray bottles, making them ideal for dogs who won’t tolerate brushing.
There are even breath-specific formulations for dogs who have chronic dry mouth, which can make bad breath worse.
Improving dog gut health is an important safeguard against bad breath, and it helps the dog feel better at the same time. Probiotics are a particularly great dog bad breath home remedy because they have widespread benefits for the dog’s entire system.
A dog’s gut naturally contains live bacteria that keep the digestive system in balance. Probiotic supplements encourage the growth of these good bacteria, improving digestion and reducing symptoms like diarrhea, gas, and bad breath.
Even with the best bad dog breath home remedy, pups may still have a little bit of stinkiness behind those floppy lips. Sometimes it’s because there’s a bigger issue at play, like diabetes or liver disease. Other times, it’s just that the pet parent needs to try another option.
For personalized advice, become a Fuzzy member today and access 24/7 online vet help with Live Vet Chat. Members of the Fuzzy veterinary support team are available anytime to answer pet parents’ questions about dental care, gut health, and more.
]]>Avoid the plaque, tartar, and oral health issues—and the vet bills that come with them. To effectively provide dog dental care, it is important to understand dog teeth as deeply as possible.
Referring to a dog teeth chart can help pet parents to better understand their dog’s dental health needs. The basic types of dog teeth include the following:
Incisors are the tiny teeth located in the front of a dog’s mouth. These small teeth are used for grooming and nibbling. Ever noticed a dog flea-biting themselves or another dog? They are using their incisors to groom their coat.
Canine teeth are the noticeable, pointed teeth located in the front of a dog’s mouth. Dogs use their canine teeth to tear apart food and toys. They also help a dog lock onto chew toys or bones.
Located behind a dog’s canine teeth, premolars help dogs chew and shred their food. Pet parents typically notice pups using their premolars when working on a tough treat.
Dogs use their molars to break apart hard-to-eat morsels. They assist a dog as they chew tough food or hard pieces of kibble and biscuits. Molars are the back-most teeth in a dog’s mouth.
Once a pet parent understands how to interpret a dog teeth chart and knows how dogs use their teeth, they can better care for dogs. Methods for at-home oral care for dogs include:
One or two Dental Chews per day are an excellent way to clean a dog’s teeth while they enjoy a treat.
Oral Dental Spray is a low-stress way to support oral health in the interim between brushing. Twice a day, spray the solution on both sides of a dog’s mouth to combat plaque and bad breath.
Investing in a pup’s dental health is easy when pet parents discover Dental Health Solutions. Add a capful of the solution to a pet’s water bowl to refresh their breath and defend against tartar and plaque.
Wiping Dental Wipes over a dog’s teeth can help clean their teeth between brushings with non-toxic ingredients and an effective textured surface.
Learning how to brush a dog’s teeth is a must when it comes to caring for a dog’s oral health. To become a master at brushing dog teeth:
Want to make sure a pet’s teeth are as clean and healthy as possible? Enjoy 24/7 access to Live Vet Chat and learn in real-time how to care for a dog’s oral health by becoming a Fuzzy Member.
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While all antler dog chews are natural, they vary in shape, texture, size, and animal. Antler dog chew toy options include the following:
Much larger in size, the antlers of elk are best for larger breeds. They are usually sold in split form.
Overall, these antlers have a harder texture than antlers from other animals. They can be small or large, offering dog owners the ability to pick one that is appropriately sized for a dog’s breed.
These types of antlers are softer than the others. It’s possible to purchase them split and in a variety of sizes.
While not technically an antler, a water buffalo horn is similar to a dog chew antler. Medium to large size dogs may enjoy and prefer the sensation of chewing a horn to an antler.
Owners often want to purchase a chew toy for their dog to provide a non-destructive outlet for their natural chewing urges. Compared to a table leg, an antler seems to make sense.
However, depending on dogs’ chewing style and jaw strength, antlers can be destructive to teeth. Chewing — in general — can help to reduce tartar and plaque build up on dog teeth. Dogs with smaller, weaker, or more sensitive gums chewing on hard items like antlers can experience cracks or broken teeth. It isn't uncommon for larger dogs with more jaw strength to experience fractures due to excessive force or twisting while chewing an antler. Like with humans, broken teeth are very painful and make it difficult for dogs to eat. If a broken tooth results in an abscess, pet parents can be hit with an expensive vet bill.
Additionally, antlers often split, splinter, or break into smaller pieces. These sometimes-sharp bits can get stuck in a dog’s stomach, mouth, throat, or even intestines which can result in occasional blockages that may require treatment.
Many dogs simply love antlers—and it’s possible to allow dogs to chew safely. Follow these best practices for dog chew toys.
Do not purchase an antler or any chew toy that can fit completely in a dog’s mouth. This will help to reduce the risk of choking. This is especially important for dogs that are aggressive chewers or those that chew quickly due to anxiety.
Take away pieces that split off from the chew so they don’t get swallowed. Harder items are best only for dogs that are softer, more casual chewers that take their time.
Most veterinarians recommend dog owners purchase other chew toys besides antlers. However, rawhide, bones, and other popular chew toys all have pros and cons. Make sure to research the options before making a decision for the type of chew that is best for a dog.
Plenty of dogs love antlers, and plenty of dog owners see antlers as a way to preserve a dog’s natural instincts. But are antlers safe for dogs? Not so much. Hard chew toys pose a significant risk to dog teeth. Try other dog chew toys first to get a sense for what type of chewer the dog is before gradually increasing the density and size of a chew towards something like an antler.
]]>Unfortunately, dental issues are common among our canine companions—roughly 80% of dogs develop oral disease before the age of two. When left untreated, plaque and tartar lead to health issues like gum inflammation, kidney disease, heart disease, and more.
Dental disease can end up costing pet parents lots of stress and even more money, with procedures valued between $500 and $3,000, depending on the area.
We get it — brushing a dog’s teeth can be a real challenge! Most pets are uncooperative when it comes to daily brushing. Fortunately, there are several great at-home solutions to get rid of bad dog breath and support a pet’s health.
Dental Chews are a great way to keep a dog’s teeth clean while treating them to a tasty snack. For best results, dogs should have 1 or 2 chews daily. For picky eaters, pet parents can even mix these yummy oral health protectors in their pet’s daily meal.
If a pup hates getting their teeth cleaned, Oral Dental Spray is the perfect way to support dental health between brushings. This easy-to-use spray should be used twice a day. Spray the solution on both sides of the dog’s mouth to control plaque build-up and instantly freshen the pet’s breath. The spray should coat teeth and gums well for the best results.
One of the easiest ways to invest in a dog’s oral health is with Dental Health Solutions, which can be added to the pet’s water bowl. With just a few drops, the solution defends against tartar and plaque while refreshing a pet’s breath—every time they take a sip from their bowl.
For a unique way to clean any dog’s teeth, try Dental Wipes. With a textured surface and non-toxic ingredients, dental wipes take the toothbrush out of the equation. Instead, a dog parent can simply wrap the wipe around their finger and gently wipe it over the pet’s pearly whites.
It may be daunting, but learning how to brush a dog’s teeth is one of the best decisions that can be made for their long term health. To master brushing your dog’s teeth:
To make sure that bad dog breath stays gone and that the dog’s teeth are well taken care of, check in with an on-call veterinary support team via 24/7 Live Vet Chat. Enjoy night and day access to a team of experts and learn in real-time how to care for your dog’s oral health by becoming a Fuzzy Member. Fuzzy’s veterinary support team can help pet parents learn how to keep any dog’s smile shiny and bright!
]]>The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends that pet parents brush their furry friends’ teeth once a day, or several times a week. The lack of a brushing routine is the most common cause of dogs’ oral health problems, including gum disease and the infamous “dog breath.”
To keep their pets healthy, pet parents need to learn how to clean a dog’s teeth. That means acclimating the dog to the process so it becomes routine.
How to brush your dog’s teeth starts with choosing a toothbrushing time and place where your dog will be comfortable and relaxed. Find somewhere in the house or apartment where other people and pets won’t disturb.
Have the toothbrushing supplies ready to go. Use a regular human toothbrush or one designed specifically for pets, but never use human toothpaste. The latter contains ingredients that can harm dogs if swallowed. There are plenty of dog toothpastes out there that are safe, effective, and taste great to dogs.
Call the dog over and give them some pets. Stroke their head and touch their cheeks, and when the dog seems relaxed and comfortable, lift their upper lip and look at their gums.
Look around the mouth, checking for redness or plaque and tartar buildup:
Be gentle and go slow when touching these areas as they may be sore.
This part is about getting the dog used to the feel of the toothbrush in their mouth. Take the brush and touch the top and bottom of the front, side, and back teeth. Offer plenty of praise and maybe a little bit of a dental treat for tolerating the process.
Now it’s time to offer a taste of the toothpaste. Dog toothpaste is formulated to appeal to dogs. It’s made without harmful chemicals and ingredients that may trigger allergic reactions.
Introduce the toothpaste by putting some on one finger and letting the dog lick it off. If they don’t love the first flavor, try a few more until you find a hit.
Once the dog has seen and felt the toothbrushing supplies, add the toothpaste to the brush and start brushing. It doesn’t matter whether the top or bottom gets attention first, as long as every tooth gets attention in the end.
Brush the dog’s front teeth on both sides, top and bottom, slowly working toward the back teeth.
For most dogs, having their teeth brushed is uncomfortable at first. As you learn how to clean a dog’s teeth, focus on making it a positive experience.
Praise the dog frequently. Use treats to reward them for being patient. It may seem counterintuitive, but it’s a means to an end. Once the dog is comfortable with having their teeth cleaned, get rid of the treats and keep the routine.
]]>While bad dog breath is common, the most common cause of canine halitosis is dental disease—no fun for Fido, and actually very dangerous for their health. Dental disease can cause systemic illness.
When learning how to freshen a dog’s breath, pet owners also learn how to keep their pet’s mouths healthy.
When brushing dogs’ teeth, it’s one of the most responsible things a pet parent can do. Consider that:
The most common risk factor for dental disease in dogs is a lack of at-home brushing. How to freshen a dog’s breath and regular home dental care coincide. Brushing a dog’s teeth should happen often—every day, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
If the idea of scrubbing a dog’s pearly whites seems weird, that’s okay—it’s weird for the dog, too. Slow and steady wins the race. Start by getting a toothbrush and some dog toothpaste. Use a human toothbrush, but not human toothpaste, which has chemicals that can be toxic to dogs.
Some dogs can be very squirmy at first, so it may be helpful to take them for a long walk before each tooth brushing session or have a vigorous round of playtime so they're more exhausted (i.e. passive and pliant). Start gradually getting the dog used to the idea of having those strange new objects in their mouth. Here’s how to brush a dog’s teeth:
Don’t worry if each step takes up to a week before the dog is used to it. Do just step one for a while, then step one and step two until the dog seems okay with it, and so on.
It’s also okay to reward them with treats. Yes, this sounds like giving a kid candy at the dentist—but it’s not a permanent thing. Once a dog’s comfortable with the process, the treats can go away.
Tried it all but the dog still won’t tolerate brushing? Some dogs just have a hard time, especially if they get to middle age before someone starts brushing their teeth.
For dogs who won’t let their pet parents brush their teeth, Fuzzy vets recommend a regular professional cleaning once a year. In between cleanings, treat the dog’s teeth with at-home products like:
Don’t worry about buying all of these. Find out what the dog tolerates and go with that.
Want some more guidance about dog teeth and breath care? Become a Fuzzy member today and access 24/7 Live Vet Chat. With Live Vet Chat, pet parents can learn in real-time how to freshen dogs’ breath and keep their mouths healthy.
]]>Did you brush your pet’s teeth today? Teeth brushing for pets is just as important as it is for us. Did you know that dental disease is one of the most common diagnosed diseases in adult pets? What’s more, dental disease can spread to other internal organs, causing discomfort elsewhere in the body and leading to serious complications. The good news is that all of this can be prevented with some solid teeth brushing habits.
You should brush your pet’s teeth once a day. That’s surprisingly often, right? (Don’t take our word for it, check the AVMA’s recommendation!) The thing is, brushing any less often than three times a week makes it far less effective in slowing tartar buildup, which is the root of most oral health issues.
Easier said than done – we totally get it. Most dogs and cats aren’t born fans of teeth brushing, but we’ve put together a 4-week plan that can help your pets get acquainted and comfortable with the routine (and helps you keep your sanity). If your pet acts scared or resists, stop and try again tomorrow, but don’t give up! As with any health habit, the key is consistency. Each week builds on the previous one, so continue trying until your pet is comfortable with each phase before moving on.
During this week, the goal is to make sure your pet associates seeing the teeth brushing supplies with a positive experience. Once a day, every day for a week, just bring out your toothbrush and toothpaste. Let them see it, sniff it, and then reward them with love, praise, attention– and maybe a small treat or two.
During this week, we’re introducing touch. You want to start getting your pet used to having the toothbrush near his or her mouth, while still making it a positive experience. Once a day, every day for a week, simply move the toothbrush along your pet’s lips and face. Brush their cheeks, touch their nose, and get them comfortable with being touched by the brush. Then reward them as you did in Week 1.
We’re moving on to taste. Once a day, every day for a week, put a dab of toothpaste on your finger and touch your pet’s teeth. Let them lick the toothpaste. Reward them with love and praise, and attention and continue to brush your pet’s lips and muzzle.
This is when we introduce the actual sensation of tooth brushing. This week is critical. Really try to make it a good experience and don’t fight your pet. Take it slow, but do it every day. Show them the supplies, brush their cheeks and lips. Then put a dab of toothpaste on the brush and touch the brush to your pet’s teeth. You don’t need to do the entire mouth. Start with the big canine teeth in the front, then gradually build up to doing more teeth every day.
Ready to get started? We recommend a triple-sided toothbrush, designed specifically for all of your pet’s nooks and crannies. For another line of defense, consider supplementing your pet's diet with Greenies or Perio Support Pro. These products help prevent the accumulation of bacteria, reduce plaque and keep your pet’s mouth cleaner in between dental cleanings.
Because dental disease can also hide along the gum line and in places you can’t easily see, we recommend that every pet has an occasional full dental cleaning from a full-service veterinarian, especially for pets over 3 years of age.
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