While dental cavities are not much of a concern for your furbaby, poor dental hygiene can still lead to plaque, tartar build-up, not to mention bad breath. Like humans, poor oral health can also transpire into other serious health issues beyond the mouth so it’s important to maintain a regular dental hygiene routine for your pup. Here are just a few ways you can help keep your dog’s pearly whites in good shape.
1. Brush their teeth
This might seem obvious but brushing is often overlooked by dog owners. Many dogs don’t like having their teeth brushed but there are some ways to make it a manageable and even, a fun experience. Get your puppy used to brushing as early as possible but never fear, it’s not too late for your older pup. When brushing, be gentle and use a canine toothbrush. Reward with treats after so your pooch might look forward to this event! Also, be sure to use a toothpaste for dogs. Ingredients in human toothpaste can be incredibly toxic for your buddy. Check out this guide from Pet WebMD for more tips on brushing your dog’s teeth.
If you are not sure which toothpaste is the right one for your dog, you can use this guide from yourdogadvisor.com to help you with some tips and recommendations.
2. Pick the right food and treats
If possible, choose hard kibble over soft foods that can easily get stuck on teeth and cause build-up. Look out for a food that is designed for oral health. There are also countless dog treats that are specially made for dental health so pick up some dental chews or bones to help keep tartar and bad breath under control.
3. Visit the vet regularly
Regular veterinarian visits should already be part of your dog’s health and wellness routine, at least every 6-12 months. Annual exams generally include a dental check-up but if not, you can ask for one. If your buddy starts to show signs of dental problems such as swollen gums, discolored or broken teeth, change in eating habits, or severe bad breath, then take your dog in to see your vet. Additionally, you may need to schedule professional teeth cleanings, which can be expensive so check if any of the procedure is covered under your pet insurance or if your vet offers a payment plan. Some dogs are more prone to dental issues than others so consult with your vet for the best plan for your pet.
4. Provide chew toys
Chew toys and bones are helpful in chipping away at build-up while strengthening teeth. Our six-pack of dog rope chews toys is perfect for aggressive chewers and provides your buddy with fun, interactive play while helping their oral hygiene! Remember, regular teeth cleaning and brushing are still an important part of your dog’s dental hygiene and toys should only be a supplement in their overall oral health routine.
Looking after your dog’s dental health is only one piece of their overall health and wellness. Be sure to visit 4LegsFriend.com to pick up everything you need to keep your pup’s mental and physical health in tip-top condition!
