2 Mistakes To Avoid When Brushing Your Dog's Teeth
If your dog's breath has started to curl your nose hair every time they get near you, you may decide that its time to start an oral hygiene regimen. However, before you reach for a toothbrush, make sure you do not make the following mistakes when brushing your dog's teeth:
1. Using Your Toothpaste on Your Dog
The first mistake that you should avoid while brushing your dog's teeth is using your toothpaste as the cleanser. Since your pooch can eat some of the foods you eat, you may believe that it would be okay to simply use what you have in your bathroom. However, toothpaste that is designed for humans is not good for dogs. In fact, human toothpaste could severely sicken or even kill a dog if they were to ingest too much of it.
For example, if you use a toothpaste that contains a sweetener known as xylitol, your dog would run the risk of developing xylitol toxicity. This condition damages a dog's liver shortly after they eat it, and it could prove to be fatal if not treated immediately.
Instead of taking the chance of killing your dog, use a toothpaste that is specially designed for them. Not only will it contain safer ingredients, but it will have a flavor that is more pleasing to your dog, which will make the brushing process go easier. If you are unsure of what toothpaste to use for your dog, ask your veterinarian.
2. Neglecting to Brush Thoroughly
Once you have your dog's special toothpaste in hand, you may feel that simply applying it to the brush and rubbing the paste over your pet's teeth is all that is needed to clean them. However, if you neglect to actually brush your dog's teeth, you will not be cleaning them properly. Just like your teeth, food, tartar, and plaque build up on the enamel surfaces. If you were to simply spread toothpaste on your teeth without brushing them, you would not be getting them very clean.
It is the same way with your dog's teeth. While you are cleaning their teeth, make sure you are brushing them thoroughly to help get rid of any stuck-on food and tartar. If you are having problems with the technique, ask the vet to show you how.
Along with avoiding these mistakes while brushing your dog's teeth, you should also consider having their teeth professionally cleaned regularly to ensure optimal dental health. Contact a veterinarian who provides dog dentistry services to make an appointment.
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