I'll admit, I can think of a thousand a few things I would rather do than brushing my dog ??on a sunny Saturday afternoon. Anyway, it's not one of Arty's favorite pastimes, both and there is something disturbing about seeing a dog foaming at the mouth upset (even if it's just a doggie toothpaste).
However, it should be done. Your four-legged friend needs his teeth so he could eat, and to protect and express themselves, so it's important to keep the gear he has in good condition.
If you never brushed your dog's canine teeth before, here are some tips that will make the whole process easier:
Get your dog used to the idea. Before you put a toothbrush in his mouth, gently use your fingers to massage your dog's lips in a circular motion for 30 to 60 seconds once or twice a day. Gradually move your fingers in his mouth until you can massage the gums and teeth. (If there is a dog you like Arty, it could take weeks, so be patient.)
Introduce a toothbrush. A child's toothbrush that's gentle, dog toothbrush or even a towel or piece of gauze will work. Only use a special toothpaste made for dogs (petco has some flavor of meat-loving Arty). Do not use human toothpaste that will upset your stomach your dog if he swallowed it.
Try brushing your teeth just a few at first. Over time, moving up into the mouth whole. Focus on the outer surface of the brush, because it's where most of the buildup of tartar will.
It's best to brush every day if possible. But even if you only do it once or twice a week, you will still be ahead of the game.
If you can not (or not) brush your dog's teeth, at least give you a lot specially formulated to treat teeth, enzyme-enhanced dental chews or toys to help keep tartar and gingivitis go. You can also take him to the vet regularly for a full cleanup.
However, it should be done. Your four-legged friend needs his teeth so he could eat, and to protect and express themselves, so it's important to keep the gear he has in good condition.
If you never brushed your dog's canine teeth before, here are some tips that will make the whole process easier:
Get your dog used to the idea. Before you put a toothbrush in his mouth, gently use your fingers to massage your dog's lips in a circular motion for 30 to 60 seconds once or twice a day. Gradually move your fingers in his mouth until you can massage the gums and teeth. (If there is a dog you like Arty, it could take weeks, so be patient.)
Introduce a toothbrush. A child's toothbrush that's gentle, dog toothbrush or even a towel or piece of gauze will work. Only use a special toothpaste made for dogs (petco has some flavor of meat-loving Arty). Do not use human toothpaste that will upset your stomach your dog if he swallowed it.
Try brushing your teeth just a few at first. Over time, moving up into the mouth whole. Focus on the outer surface of the brush, because it's where most of the buildup of tartar will.
It's best to brush every day if possible. But even if you only do it once or twice a week, you will still be ahead of the game.
If you can not (or not) brush your dog's teeth, at least give you a lot specially formulated to treat teeth, enzyme-enhanced dental chews or toys to help keep tartar and gingivitis go. You can also take him to the vet regularly for a full cleanup.