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Brushing a Dog’s Teeth is Essential for Proper Grooming

Tess Thompson

Dog owners have to become accustomed to normal dog breath. At the same time, a dog’s bad breath can become intolerable at times.

Canine bad breath is normally a result of improper dental care. Most dog owners tend to ignore dental care while grooming. Lack of proper dental care results in food particles, bone splinters and other substances to remain stuck between the teeth and gums-- causing decay over a period of time. The resultant abscesses and inflammation becomes a welcome home for bacteria. Untended, they invite more bacteria, which ultimately results in periodontitis, a teeth and gum disease that can progress and infect other parts of the body.

Dental care is as important for dogs as it is for humans. If you want to avoid dental problems like periodontitis, you need to brush the dog’s teeth, just as you do yours. The only difference is that you may have to learn how to properly brush your dog’s teeth. Your pet will also need to get accustomed to the manner in which you brush his teeth, since it is not natural for them. However, the training is similar to the manner in which the pet gets accustomed to accept your commands.

Choose a time when your dog and you are relaxed. If your dog is disturbed or agitated, he is most likely to resist your attempts at brushing. For the first few times, simply stroke the area with your fingers and let the dog get used to it. Choose veterinary toothpaste, and apply some to your finger and let the dog get a taste of it. Make sure you choose a paste with a flavor that you know your dog likes. There is a wide range of flavors available in the market, and you can choose one that is flavored with poultry or other meats. Once your pet is habituated to the taste, you can introduce the toothbrush.

It is important to understand that since this is not a natural activity for a dog, he is unlikely to enjoy the process of brushing or accept it easily. You should try and make sure that brushing teeth becomes an enjoyable activity for your dog.

Start with brushing for about 30 seconds at a time, and do not test the dog’s tolerance level. However, don’t stop after he starts fussing. This will result in more fussing, as the dog realizes that fussing results in putting a stop to the activity. Brush a few teeth initially and increase the number of teeth gradually. Don’t forget the difficult-to-reach back teeth, since they are most likely to accumulate maximum tartar.

Brushing teeth should be a regular exercise, and if you notice a particle or splinter or bone that is difficult to dislodge, you may have to take your dog to the veterinarian for removal.

References:
http://www.placervillevet.com/dog%20toothbrushing.htm