Brushing the Teeth of a Teacup Chihuahua

Brush your teacup chihuahua's teeth every day to keep them healthy.

Some chihuahuas have problems with their teeth, and this can result in gum infections or periodontal disease, which have far-reaching effects. Gum disease or infection can adversely affect your pet's heart, lungs and kidneys, so regular brushing is necessary. Setting aside time every day to brush your dog's teeth will help keep it healthy and save you from expensive veterinary bills.

Things You'll Need

• Beef bouillon
• Dog toothpaste
• Finger toothbrush
• Antiseptic dental rinse for dogs

Instructions

1. Get your pet used to and comfortable with having your index finger in its mouth. To make your finger a little more appetizing, rub some beef bouillon on it. Rub the finger all over the dog's teeth and gums. Do this for a few days until your dog gets used to it.

2. Introduce the finger toothbrush to your dog. You want your dog to be amenable to having you insert the brush into its mouth. You can add some dog toothpaste at this stage or wait for a couple of days before introducing the paste. Consult your vet about the type of toothpaste to use for your teacup chihuahua.

3. Lift the upper lip and apply some toothpaste along the gum line. Initially, massage the paste in with your fingers using a circular motion, and then move to using the toothbrush. Brush the upper canine teeth first and then concentrate on the other upper teeth. Do not force the toothbrush in. Since teacup chihuahuas have small mouths, this could cause injury. Praise your pet for cooperating and allowing you to brush. Use a soothing, gentle voice. Repeat the procedure with the lower teeth.

4. Use an antiseptic dog mouth rinse to finish the brushing session. Consult your vet to find out which antiseptic mouth rinse you should use.

Tips & Warnings

• It may be some time before your dog allows you to clean all the teeth in one go. Start with the canines if the dog does not allow you to brush all its teeth.

• Take your pet at least once a year for professional teeth cleaning. Along with the daily brushing, professional cleaning will help keep your pet healthy.

• Instead of beef bouillon, you can use liver paste.

• Feed your teacup chihuahua fresh food instead of canned dog food. This facilitates natural teeth cleaning during chewing. Giving a dog chew toys and raw bones will help keep the teeth clean to some extent.

• If your teacup chihuahua struggles during brushing, let it go. These dogs have small bodies, and struggling could be injurious.

• Always use professional help for pulling a loose tooth; doing this on your own may increase chances of complications.

• Take your dog to the vet if you notice a tooth infection.

• Never use human toothpaste to clean your dog's teeth; this can be dangerous.

References

• Marli's Chi's: Chihuahuas and Dental Hygiene
• Doctors Foster and Smith: Brushing Your Dog's Teeth in 5 Easy Steps