How Often Do Dogs Need Teeth Brushings and Cleanings?

Oral hygiene is very important not just for humans but also for pets. Your dog is not exempted from developing dental issues. Dogs can suffer from swollen gums and tooth loss too. 

 

They can also experience difficulty swallowing and other problems caused by dental illness. Good oral care is essential for the overall health of your pet. If you have been wondering how often your dog needs teeth brushing and cleaning, the following information will help. 

 

Cleaning Your Dog’s Teeth

Try to clean your dog’s teeth often to avoid plaque and buildup of tartar. The frequency of teeth brushing for dogs will depend on the age and breed of the dog. Smaller dog breeds are more prone to developing dental problems, so they require more frequent cleaning. When it comes to age, older dogs need teeth brushing more frequently than younger dogs. Ideally, you should brush your dog’s teeth daily and clean them two or three times a week.

 

How to Brush the Dog’s Teeth

Brushing a dog’s teeth is usually not a simple task. Some tips can help. First, get the right products for the job. You need dog-friendly toothpaste and the right toothbrush. 

 

Avoid using human toothpaste on your dog as the products often contain fluoride. The size of your pet will determine the size of the toothbrush that you should use. If you have a large dog, you need a toothbrush that will reach the back of the mouth easily.

 

Acclimating Your Dog 

Get your dog accustomed to the toothbrushing process. This will make the process much easier and more comfortable for you and your dog. Make sure that the dog is comfortable. Rub a wipe on the teeth and gums to get the dog accustomed to the feeling. 

 

Rewarding your dog for cooperating will help. Begin with short sessions and increase the brushing time gradually over time. The dog may try to squirm away, so you need to position them in a way that will hold them in place. 

 

Making Teeth Brushing Easier

Here are additional tips to make the dog teeth brushing process much easier. Begin slowly, offer tasty rewards for cooperation, and take frequent breaks when necessary. If the dog looks uncomfortable, taking frequent breaks will help. 

 

Choose the right time for brushing. Timing can determine how easy the process will be. The best time to brush your dog’s teeth is when they are calm or relaxed before they go to bed.  

 

Using Alternative Dental Products

If your dog is extremely resistant to brushing, you can use products that offer an alternative to teeth cleaning. Dental products can prevent decay or dental disease. The products are quite effective, and they include dental wipes, gels, and water additives. 

 

You can also get dental chews that help clean the dog’s mouth. Talk to your veterinarian before using some of these products. When brushing your dog’s teeth, pay attention to the gumline, where the teeth meet the gum. You should also focus on the back teeth where tartar and plaque are more likely to accumulate. 

 

For more on taking care of your dog’s oral health, call R Veterinary Group at our offices in Linn Creek, Columbia, or Waynesville, Missouri. You can call (573) 245-1027, (573) 346-5733, (573) 443-7274, (573) 774-3337, or (573) 875-7825, respectively, today to schedule an appointment.