3 Reasons to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth

Most dog owners know that brushing their dogs’ teeth is important, but it’s not an easy task. And because it’s not easy…many people tend to skip it. However, brushing your dog’s teeth is important for so many reasons. Just like with humans, a dog’s oral health is important to his or her overall health.
Here are 3 Reasons to Brush Your Dog's Teeth

1. No more doggie breath: When you regularly brush your pup’s teeth, you’ll prevent him from having bad breath. While chronic bad breath can be a sign of a more serious ailment, ‘regular’ doggie breath can be prevented with proper dental care. It will help remove food particles stuck in your dog’s teeth, keeping their breath fresh.

2. All around better health: In addition to fresher breath, brushing your dog’s teeth will help remove tartar and plaque buildup. While tartar and plaque begin on the teeth, they can actually spread to other parts of the body. Plaque buildup in your dog’s organs or joints can really have a negative impact on his health. If you make sure to brush your pup’s teeth regularly, you’ll help prevent heart disease, arthritis, and other problems.

3. Prevent periodontal disease: Most pet parents dread the idea of having their pet anesthetized for a dental cleaning. If you keep up with a regular dental cleaning schedule at home, you may never have to worry about that! Brushing your dog’s teeth at home will help prevent periodontal disease, which is one of the most prominent diseases in dogs. The toxins from this disease can be absorbed into a dog’s bloodstream, which can damage their kidneys, liver, and heart. Regular brushing will help prevent the spread of this bacteria.

Tips for Brushing Your Pup’s Teeth
Even if you’ve never tried brushing your dog’s teeth, your dog can get used to the routine. It’s important to start out with lots of patience and praise.
• First, choose the right toothbrush. Canine toothbrushes are similar to ours but are smaller and softer. If you can’t find one feel free to use an infant toothbrush. They also make finger toothbrushes, which simply fit over your finger and make it easier to get the toothpaste where it needs to go (namely on their teeth and not all over their faces!). If you can’t find finger toothbrushes, you can just wrap a piece of paper towel around your finger, put a bit of toothpaste on it, and go that route (they also make dental wipes which are similar to the paper towel trick!).
• The best time to brush your dog’s teeth is when he’s tired after a walk or playtime.
• If your dog is brand new to teeth brushing, the process can take some time. Just have patience, praise him, and give him a treat after every brushing session.
• Make sure you purchase toothpaste made specifically for dogs. It typically comes in flavors your pup will love and it does not need to be rinsed. Please note: human toothpaste can upset their stomachs.
Brushing your pup’s teeth will help keep them healthy and will also help ensure they keep their teeth for many, many years to come!
Bath & Biscuits carries pet toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental gel and plaque/tartar prevention water additive for dogs and cats. A gentle dental cleaning can be added to a groom or bath and you’ll receive a FREE bottle or drops of water additive to use at home.

Originally posted on 07/23/2018 at 02:15 PM