We take care of the smallest of things when it comes to tending to our dogs; from food to medicines, from vaccinations to play-time. However, sometimes we miss a very important aspect of this. Dental care for our dogs.
Most of us are not aware of the fact that as dogs enter 3-4 years into their lives, their teeth start to give away and they acquire one-of-many gum diseases, plaque, and gingivitis. Most of this happens when dog-parents fail to acknowledge symptoms in the very beginning like bad breath.
The morphology of a dog’s teeth is very different from that of a human’s and requires much care. So, we bring to you some tips on dental care for your dog.
1. Brush regularly
Brushing your dog’s teeth is maybe one of the most basic things you can do to improve your dog’s teeth and keep them healthy. Your dog may not really be into this idea initially. However, you can make this pleasurable to make them come on board with the idea. Treat them after you are done brushing their teeth and praise them. Daily and regular brushing will not only keep your dog’s mouth healthy but will contribute to their overall health. Make this a habit. Read here how to brush dogs teeth.
2. Buy a good dog brushing kit
Buy a tooth-brushing kit that is specially made for canines. This may be available at your vet or you can buy a dog toothbrush and toothpaste at Amazon. They have their special toothbrushes designed for a dog’s teeth and not the ones for humans. It is important to note that the toothpaste used by humans is not suitable for dogs. As your dog can’t rinse the toothpaste you use is highly allergic to their stomachs. So, if a toothpaste for dogs is not available to you, alternatively you can make a paste out of baking soda and water and use it instead.
3. Look for symptoms of dental problems
Always be cautious when it comes to your dog and taking care of him. Look out for early signs and symptoms that may indicate some serious dental problems with your pet so that they can be taken care of with time in hand. Symptoms like bad breath, bleeding and inflamed gums, excessive drooling, loose teeth might indicate some oral diseases in your pet. Visit a vet when you spot any of these symptoms.
4. Choose the food wisely
It might prove to be a bane for you if you are picky with what you give your dog to eat. Make sure that you don’t give your dog too much of canned and sticky food items to eat. These kinds of foods may sick to the roof of their mouths and cause tooth decay. Opt for a little dry or semi-solid food such as kibble. You can find many good quality dog food online. See dog food on Amazon.
5. Have regular veterinary check-ups
Plan a bi-annual or annual dental check-up for your dog with your vet. For a proper check up to take place for your dog, he needs to be put under general anesthesia. During these check-ups, your dog will also be given teeth and gum-cleaning so that decay can be further prevented.
6. Sterilize the dog toys
Make sure that the toys that your dog plays with (that they often put in their mouth) are sterilized often to keep the germs and bacteria away. This will prevent the occurrences of bacterial infections and gum decays in their mouths.
7. Start it early
Starting the brushing habit with your pet as soonest as possible is best. This makes them accustomed to the habit and they will see it as part of their routine. Not a chore they have to endure.
