We wouldn’t go a day without grabbing a toothbrush and brushing our teeth two or three times that day. But when was the last time you brushed your dog’s teeth? Dental care should be part of your dog’s regular health routine.

Take your dog to the vet at least once a year to have your its teeth professionally examined for any potential problems. The vet will check for signs of gum disease and broken teeth, and see how much plaque and tartar have built up. These conditions must be dealt with for your dog just as your dentist would do for you.

Plaque on your dog’s teeth is a sticky coating of bacteria. If it’s not removed, it can harden into tartar, which is more difficult to remove. Tartar can lead to gum disease which can cause infections and tooth loss.

By the time dogs are 3 years old, most will have some signs of gum disease. Perhaps it may be diagnosed as gingivitis in its mild stages. However, in advanced stages, it can become periodontal disease. Your dog’s gums might start to pull back or recede from their teeth. That creates gaps that allow bacteria from their mouth to enter their bloodstream. That can lead to dangerous infections.

Preventing your dog from having dental problems is the best strategy. Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly can help keep their teeth and gums healthy.

When To Begin Brushing Your Dog’s Teeth

It’s best to begin brushing your dog’s teeth when they are young, not only for their dental health but also to get them accustomed to tooth brushing. I learned this the hard way as I did not begin brushing my dog’s teeth until she was an adult. She fights me now when I brush her teeth and it’s an ordeal for both of us. The younger the dog is when you start brushing its teeth the better.

Toothpaste For Dogs

There is special toothpaste made for dogs. Dogs cannot use human toothpaste. Dog toothpaste must be able to be swallowed or licked by the dog. Ingredients in toothpaste for humans prevent this. We can spit the toothpaste out but dogs can’t spit.

How to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth

When you brush your dog’s teeth do it in a place that is comfortable and familiar to your dog. Choose a quiet spot that will ease any stress or distraction the dog might have during its toothbrushing. Smaller dogs could be held in your lap with their head facing away from you, while larger dogs could be placed sitting next to you in a chair.

Be especially kind and gentle with your dog while brushing its teeth. The less stress your dog has during the toothbrushing procedure is the best for your dog and you! Your dog can pick up signals of stress from you so don’t be in a rush. Proceed slowly. You can begin by using a finger or a soft and clean piece of cloth to rub your dog’s teeth. Don’t force the dog’s mouth open, instead gently raise the dog’s lip and work on the outside of its teeth and gums. Do a few teeth at a time.

Your dog needs to get used to you touching its teeth and the taste of the toothpaste. When your dog seems comfortable, then add the dog toothpaste to your finger or cloth and repeat the gentle rubbing of the outside teeth and gums. Let them smell the toothpaste and lick it. Dog toothpaste is often flavored to make it appealing to dogs.

Next, use a soft-bristled toothbrush with the dog toothpaste, there are toothbrushes for dogs. Use soft and gentle brush strokes and try to move on to the dog’s entire teeth and gum line. Getting the gum line clean is important for your dog’s dental health. Here is a dog dental care kit with a toothbrush and a toothpaste dental gel that I like:

Vet’s Best Dental Care Kit with Toothbrush and Gel for Dogs Toothpaste: 3.5 oz

How Often Should You Brush Your Dog’s Teeth?

A good number is three times a week as it only takes a few days for plaque to begin to turn into tartar. It all really depends on your dog. Some dogs may need more frequent toothbrushing than others because of genetics.

Chews Help Keep A Dog’s Teeth Clean

Regularly give your dog dental chews. Chews can help keep your dog’s teeth clean. Dogs love chews they can eat or play with and the chews help prevent plaque and tartar build-up. All good for your dog’s dental health! Here are two dental chews I recommend:

DreamSticks – Made With Real Beef, 15 sticks, No Raw Hide

Nylabone Nubz Meaty Center Natural Long Lasting Edible Dog Chews 20 count Small – Up to 30 lbs.