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Having a dog can be a lot of fun, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility. Just like with humans, it is important to take care of a dog’s dental hygiene. Brushing their teeth is a crucial part of that, but what happens when your pup refuses to cooperate? Don’t worry, there are still ways to get your pup’s teeth brushed without them becoming unruly. In this article, we will discuss how to brush dog teeth when they refuse, as well as other ways to keep your pup’s dental hygiene in check.
Why is it Important to Brush Your Dog's Teeth?
You may be wondering why it is necessary to brush your dog’s teeth in the first place. Well, just like with humans, plaque and tartar can build up on their teeth. This can lead to gum disease, which can cause tooth loss, inflammation, and even bad breath. Additionally, plaque and tartar can make it difficult for your pup to eat and chew their food properly.
How to Brush Your Dog's Teeth
Brushing your pup’s teeth should be done at least twice a week. This will help remove plaque and tartar, as well as keep your pup’s breath smelling fresh. Before you start, it is important to get the right supplies. You will need a toothbrush designed specifically for dogs, as well as toothpaste. Human toothpaste should not be used as it can be harmful to dogs.
Step 1: Introduce Your Dog to the Toothbrush and Toothpaste
The first step is to introduce your pup to the toothbrush and toothpaste. Give them a chance to sniff it and familiarize themselves with the taste and smell. It is also important to get them used to the feeling of the brush on their teeth. You can do this by gently rubbing their teeth and gums with your finger or a gauze pad.
Step 2: Begin Brushing Their Teeth
Once your pup is familiar with the toothbrush and toothpaste, it is time to begin brushing their teeth. Start by lifting their lip on one side and placing the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle towards the gum line. Move the brush in small circles, making sure to cover all of the surfaces of their teeth. Make sure to brush their tongue and the roof of their mouth as well.
Step 3: Reward Your Dog with Treats
When you are finished brushing your pup’s teeth, it is important to reward them with treats. This will help them associate the process with something positive, and will make it easier to brush their teeth in the future.
What to Do if Your Dog Refuses to Cooperate
If your pup refuses to cooperate when it comes to brushing their teeth, there are still a few things you can do. The first is to try and make the process a positive experience. Give them treats afterwards, and make sure to praise them for good behavior. You can also try introducing them to the process gradually, by starting with just a few seconds of brushing and slowly working up to longer periods of time.
Other Ways to Keep Your Dog's Teeth Clean
In addition to brushing, there are a few other ways to keep your pup’s teeth clean. Giving them chew toys and treats designed to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup can be helpful. You can also give them dental chews and can even add a dental rinse to their water bowl.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often should I brush my dog's teeth?
You should brush your pup’s teeth at least twice a week. This will help remove plaque and tartar buildup and keep their breath smelling fresh.
2. What type of toothbrush should I use?
You should use a toothbrush designed specifically for dogs. This will be smaller and softer than a human toothbrush and will be more comfortable for your pup.
3. Can I use human toothpaste?
No, you should not use human toothpaste. Human toothpaste can be harmful to dogs, so you should use toothpaste specifically designed for them.
4. What should I do if my dog refuses to cooperate when I brush their teeth?
If your pup refuses to cooperate when it comes to brushing their teeth, you can try making the process a positive experience by giving them treats afterwards and praising them for good behavior. You can also try introducing them to the process gradually, by starting with just a few seconds of brushing and slowly working up to longer periods of time.
5. Are there any other ways to keep my pup's teeth clean?
Yes, there are a few other ways to keep your pup’s teeth clean. Giving them chew toys and treats designed to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup can be helpful. You can also give them dental chews and can even add a dental rinse to their water bowl.
6. How will I know if my pup has gum disease?
If your pup has gum disease, you may notice that their gums are red and swollen and that they have bad breath. You may also notice that they are losing their teeth or having difficulty eating and chewing their food.
7. Can I brush my pup's teeth too often?
It is generally recommended to brush your pup’s teeth at least twice a week. Brushing more often than that can actually cause damage to their teeth.
8. Is it normal for my pup's breath to smell bad?
No, it is not normal for your pup’s breath to smell bad. Bad breath is often an indication of poor dental hygiene, so it is important to make sure that you are brushing their teeth regularly.
9. How do I choose the right toothpaste for my pup?
When choosing a toothpaste for your pup, you should look for one that is specifically designed for dogs. This will be formulated to be safe for them to use and will usually have a flavor that they will enjoy.
10. Can I use a human toothbrush on my pup?
No, you should not use a human toothbrush on your pup. Human toothbrushes are too big and too hard for your pup’s teeth, so it is important to use a toothbrush specifically designed for dogs.
11. Is it necessary to brush my pup's tongue?
Yes, it is important to brush your pup’s tongue in addition to their teeth. Bacteria can accumulate on the tongue, so it is important to make sure it is clean as well.
12. Is dental chews safe for my pup?
Yes, dental chews are generally safe for your pup, as long as they are made with natural ingredients. However, it is important to check the label to make sure that they are not made with any ingredients that could be harmful to your pup.
13. What is the best way to introduce my pup to brushing their teeth?
The best way to introduce your pup to brushing their teeth is to give them a chance to sniff the toothbrush and toothpaste and get used to the feeling of the brush on their teeth. You can do this by gently rubbing their teeth and gums with your finger or a gauze pad.
14. Is it normal for my pup to be scared of the toothbrush?
Yes, it is normal for your pup to be scared of the toothbrush. This is why it is important to take the time to introduce them to the process gradually and make it a positive experience.
15. What should I do if my pup keeps moving their head when I try to brush their teeth?
If your pup is moving their head while you are trying to brush their teeth, you can try holding their muzzle gently with one hand while brushing with the other. You can also try distracting them with treats or toys while you brush.
16. Are there any alternatives to brushing my pup's teeth?
Although brushing is the best way to keep your pup’s teeth clean, there are a few alternatives. Giving them chew toys and treats designed to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup can be helpful. You can also give them dental chews and can even add a dental rinse to their water bowl.
17. What type of toothpaste should I avoid?
You should avoid toothpastes that contain xylitol, as this can be toxic to dogs. You should also avoid human toothpastes, as they can be harmful to your pup.
18. How do I know if my pup has healthy gums?
Healthy gums should be pink in color and should not appear swollen or inflamed. If you notice any signs of inflammation or discoloration, it is important to take your pup to the vet for an examination.
19. Is it safe to use a waterpik on my pup?
No, it is not safe to use a waterpik on your pup. Waterpiks are designed for humans and can be too powerful for your pup’s delicate gums.
20. Is it ok to use flavored toothpaste for my pup?
Yes, flavored toothpastes can be beneficial for your pup. Flavored toothpastes are usually more enjoyable for them and can help make the brushing process more pleasant.