Oral Care For Your Dog

Taking care of your dog's teeth is just as
important as having your own looked after.
Providing good oral hygiene will improve the
quality of his life and the sooner this is done
the better. As they age, dogs will start to have
plaque and tartar build-up on their teeth. Bad
breath is one sign that this is happening and a
visit to your veterinarian is suggested, so that
he or she can diagnose your dog's oral health.
Your veterinarian may want to clean your dog's
teeth which requires anesthetic, not to mention
high cost. Obviously, loose teeth, 'pockets' in
the gum, severe gingivitis and other oral
diseases require professional care. Depending on
the condition, ask if you could clean them
yourself as the cost of dog teeth cleaning can
be quite high in some areas.

Home remedies are far less expensive, safer and
enable you and your favorite companion to have
more fun time together. Dog toothpaste comes in
different flavors and pet stores also offer dog
toothbrushes. One is a regular kind, but if your
dog has trouble accepting this, there is a finger
toothbrush which may be tolerated more easily.

It is suggested that you work up to brushing
your dog's teeth slowly and gently over a period
of a few days. Have him sit close by, relaxed,
and put some toothpaste on your finger. With the
other hand, gently lift back the upper lip
exposing all the teeth. Run your finger (with
the toothpaste) from the back to the front of
his mouth allowing him to lick the toothpaste.

He will enjoy it and you can praise him for
letting you do this. Repeat on the other side.
Once you feel the time is right put some
toothpaste on the brush and gently brush dog
teeth one or two at a time. Stop, praise and
start again. With repetition and praise you
should be able to clean the whole mouth. Daily
brushing is best, or as often as possible.

If this procedure is too difficult for you or
your dog, there are now gels and sprays that,
when mixed with dog saliva, remove plaque and
tartar build-up. If your dog can remain still,
using the spray will work well. If the noise is
bothersome, put some gel on your finger, lift
and pull back his upper lip with your other hand
and quickly swipe along the teeth. Used
consistently this will break down the tartar and
soon your dog will have clean, white teeth and
sweet breath again.

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Tartar on a dog's teeth can easily be removed
with natural products. On our site, we have info
about dog teeth cleaning that does not require
dangerous anesthetics.
http://www.cactuscanyon.com/dog-teethcleaning.htm

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