Thursday 3 November 2011

Dental Hygiene Tips For Your Dog

Studies have shown that 4 out of 5 dogs are showing dental problems before the age of 3. There are many varieties of biscuits on the market that claim to stop the build up of plaque which eventually becomes tartar. Dogs do suffer from gum disease, which in time can mean them losing their teeth. Dental biscuits alone aren't enough and brushing should be a twice weekly, or preferably daily routine.

Now, the idea of trying to get your dog to put up with you shoving a toothbrush in his mouth isn't an easy one. That's why it's advisable to start them off as young as possible. It is also a good idea to begin with a trip to your vet to have a thorough clean and to discuss which is the easiest and most effective way. Selecting the right toothpaste is also very important. You should look for a paste that has enzymes in it which will help to control plaque. Whatever you do don't use human toothpaste as they may contain salt, baking soda or detergents of some kind. Also many of the dog pastes now come in flavours like poultry etc. Using a child's toothbrush isn't a good idea either as that can even be too hard for doggie gums.

Start off by approaching your dog when he's relaxed and has had his daily exercise. Sit calmly next to him and let him sniff the brush to get him used to the scent and shape of the new object. Then begin gently brushing your dog's teeth without any toothpaste to allow him to experience this new, strange treatment. Then next time use only warm water on the brush, eventually progressing to a small amount of dog paste.

There are various brushes and toothpastes that are available on the market. These will be helpful in combating dental hygiene problems for your pet.

There are silent toothbrushes that obviously have the benefit of not stressing your pet out with noise. A lot of them come with bristles angled at 45° towards the teeth and gum line so it can clean the inside and outside surfaces of the teeth at the same time. Allowing for a quicker cleaning routine for both you and your dog.

Dual ended toothbrushes are ideal for brushing the teeth of most pets. The different sized brushes mean you can do the back as well as the front teeth. The long handles and angle heads help to reach the back teeth as well.

Pet veterinary cat dog finger toothbrushes are designed for massaging gums, cleaning the mouth cavity, gums, tooth rim and pets teeth. The brushes are usually made of soft rubber silicone for comfort and are molded in a single piece for safety.

Virbac enzymatic toothpaste is specifically formulated for dogs and cats (fish and poultry flavour available). It is a highly palatable toothpaste based on the patented C.E.T. Dual Enzyme System which enhances the natural defence mechanisms of the mouth, no rinsing required.

Beaphar toothpaste contains fluoride to strengthen their teeth, it contains special enzymes to break down plaque, as well as chlorophyll to help combat bad breath.

So make sure you look after your dog's teeth as it's a very important factor in pet health and happiness.

1 comment:

  1. Nice to visit this post. Dental care is opportunities for the dental assistant to open a career. This field have lot of opportunity to make career bright. Nice description. I really like the guidance that you provide in this post.
    Behnam Aghabeigi

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