Toothbrush For Your Dog
By Lynn Lopez
As kids, we were all taught to take care of our teeth by brushing them regularly after meals and before going to bed. But did you know that even dogs need dental care? Part of being a responsible dog owner involves taking care of your dog’s teeth. Plenty of products are available to ensure that your pet’s teeth are kept in top shape, such as chew toys, but brushing your dog’s teeth is still essential to prevent the build-up of plaque and gum problems. It will also keep your dog’s breath fresh.
First of all, you must select the right kind of toothbrush for your dog. It depends on the size of your dog’s mouth, and you should be able to grip the handle comfortably and allow you to thoroughly clean the inside of your dog’s mouth. Finger cots are also recommended for bigger dogs because they will allow you to reach into their mouths. Some say that smaller toothbrushes for humans would also work for small dogs.
As for the right toothpaste for your dog, our regular toothpastes aren’t healthy for our pets because they may contain substances that can be harmful to them. Plus, they won’t be able to spit them out either. There are toothpastes which are made especially for dogs and usually beef- or chicken-flavored.
It’s not easy to introduce your dog to toothbrushing, but with a little training, it may even be an enjoyable experience for your pet. First, your dog has to be comfortable with having your fingers in its mouth. Don’t hold its muzzle tightly and force it to open its mouth. Once it’s gotten used to it, you can give it a taste of the toothpaste and see how it likes the flavor. You can then spread it around the toothpaste around its teeth and gums and gradually start brushing. Don’t try to brush all the teeth for the first time. It’s okay if you only get to brush the front teeth. After a while, the dog could get used to the process and eventually be okay with you brushing all its teeth.
It doesn’t have to be a daily process, but it’s still best to do this regularly to make sure your dog’s teeth stay clean and healthy.
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