We humans don’t think twice about maintaining a good oral care routine and yet we often don’t have one for our dogs. This is a shame as dogs can suffer from gum disease and tooth decay just like us. Not only that but a dog’s teeth are really important to them because they use them not just for eating but also for grasping, pulling and lifting (almost like we’d use our arms).
The good news is it’s not difficult to look after your dog’s teeth. We’ll show you the simple things you need to do, and we’ve even got a step-by-step guide to cleaning dogs’ teeth.
Why cleaning dogs’ teeth is so important
Did you know that 80% of dogs over the age of three have gum disease? Not only can this cause your furry friend considerable pain but, if left unchecked, it can lead to tooth loss (which you obviously want to avoid since, when it comes to the purpose of dogs teeth, each one has a specific role). Gum disease can even impact other areas of the body, causing serious health issues such as kidney and heart disease.
Ways to keep your dog’s teeth clean
So we’ve established how vital it is you keep your dog’s teeth in tip-top condition, but how exactly do you do that?
Brush their teeth
Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly is one of the best ways of keeping their teeth and gums healthy. Now we admit this can seem like a tall order if you’ve never brushed your furry friend’s teeth before. Don’t worry though because we’ve got a simple step-by-step guide on how to clean dogs’ teeth. There’s even a short video guide.
Take them for dental check-ups
Dogs need dental check-ups just like we do, so make sure you get your vet or vet’s nurse to look at your dog’s teeth and gums a couple of times a year. This means any issues can be spotted before they become a big problem.
Give them chew toys
Puppies and dogs need to chew, and it can help with their oral care routine by helping to scrape teeth clean and strengthening periodontal ligaments.
Give them Dentastix
Pedigree Dentastix have a unique X shape, a gently abrasive texture and active ingredients. When they’re fed daily, they can help to reduce tartar build-up by up to 80%. They’re low in fat and sugar free and designed to be super-tasty!
What you will need for dog teeth cleaning
- A toothbrush that’s the right size for your dog
For medium and large dogs this will be an adult-sized human toothbrush, for small dogs a child’s toothbrush and for toy or miniature dogs, a special small pet’s toothbrush.
It’s really important you don’t use human toothpaste for your dog as the fluoride is poisonous to them. Pet toothpaste is widely available and designed to appeal to a dog’s tastes.
- A quiet place that’s free of distractions
When you first introduce your four-legged friend to having their teeth brushed, making things easier on both of you, by doing it in a quiet, calm environment.
- A little bit of time and patience
Over time, your dog will get used to having their teeth brushed – in fact, many dogs come to enjoy it. However, it’s important to start slowly and be patient.
Top tips for dog teeth cleaning
- Keep sessions short and sweet
It’s best to keep each tooth cleaning session short, especially at the beginning. This stops it being overwhelming for your dog and allows them to get used to things gradually.
If you can get into the habit of brushing your dog’s teeth at the same time every day, this will help you stick to it. It doesn’t matter what time of day it is, so just choose one that suits you.
Below is a step-by-step guide to get your dog used to having their teeth brushed. Repeat each step until your dog is comfortable with it and, if you need to, don’t be afraid to go back a step.
- Remember every dog is different
All dogs are unique individuals who will learn at their own pace. Don’t rush them if they take a while to get used to the idea of having their teeth cleaned.
- Give lots of praise and encouragement
Studies have shown that positive reinforcement is very effective when it comes to dog training and teaching them to have their teeth cleaned is no exception to this.
How to clean dogs’ teeth – a step-by-step guide
These straightforward steps will make things easy for you and your dog. We’ve also got a handy, short video guide.
Step 1: Introducing the pet toothpaste
- Smear a small amount of pet toothpaste on your fingertip.
- Allow your dog to lick it off. You’ll probably find they’re very keen on the taste!
Step 2: Getting your dog used to have something in their mouth
- Put some toothpaste on your fingertip
- With your other hand, gently hold your dog’s muzzle so their mouth is mostly closed.
- Insert your finger under your dog’s top lip to the side of their face.
- Rub your fingertips on the teeth.
- Don’t allow your dog’s mouth to open or you may get your finger chewed.
- Slide your finger further back inside your dog’s cheek. (Don’t do this if there’s any risk you could get bitten. Instead, seek professional help from your vet or a qualified animal behaviourist.)
3. Introducing the toothbrush – canine teeth to begin with
- Wet the toothbrush with a little water and add some toothpaste, pushing it down into the bristles.
- Hold your dog’s muzzle to keep their mouth gently closed. This is to stop them chewing the brush when it goes into their mouth.
- Using a finger on the hand that’s holding your dog’s muzzle, gently lift up the top lip on one side of the mouth.
- Gently brush the canine teeth (the longest ones). Don’t brush the incisor teeth (at the front of the mouth) yet as this is a more sensitive area.
- Change your hold on your dog’s muzzle to lift the lip on the other side and repeat the process.
4. Brushing the teeth further back
- Once your dog has got used to you brushing their canine teeth, it’s time to brush the molars which are further back in their mouth.
- This means slipping the toothbrush past the corner of your dog’s lips inside the cheeks. If this proves tricky, try using a smaller brush.
- Brush your dog’s upper teeth first and then allow their mouth to open slightly so you can brush along the gum line of the lower teeth.
- Remember to go gradually and stop if your dog seems not to like what’s happening.
5. Brush all the teeth
- The final step is to get your dog used to having all their teeth brushed. Start with the canines and the molars (as before);
- Now, while still holding your dog’s mouth gently closed, lift up their top lip to brush the incisors.
- You’re now brushing all of your dog’s teeth. You can gradually build up how long each session takes until you’re happy your dog’s teeth are getting a really thorough clean.
Want more advice? Check out how to remove tartar and plaque.
Signs of dental health issues
If you follow a good oral care routine for your dog, chances are they will never experience any serious dental health issues. However, it pays to be vigilant to signs there is a problem.
For example, contrary to popular belief, it’s not normal for dogs to have persistent bad breath. Check out Why does my dog have bad breath?
Here are some of the signs that indicate there could be a problem. If you notice any of them, it’s a good idea to get your vet or vet’s nurse to give your dog a check-up.
- Bad breath
- Inflamed or bleeding gums
- Excessive drooling
- Discoloured teeth (brown or yellow)
- Blood on chew toys or in water bowl
- Favouring one side of the mouth when chewing
- Irritability
