How to Brush a Dogs Teeth

Make brushing your dogs teeth a daily routine. Be consistent and your tooth brushing experience will be a breeze.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Toothpaste for dogs
• Soft toothbrush

1. 
   Flavored toothpaste for dogs

   If your dog isn't accustomed to tooth brushing don't worry, start out by rubbing your dogs gums with your index finger. This will make your dog get used to his or her gums being massaged. Gradually introduce the toothbrush with toothpaste for dogs; these are specially made with flavors that a dog can't resist.

2. 
   Examine the teeth and gums for problems

   Use a toothpaste that appeals to your dog, put a small amount on the toothbrush and start by brushing the back teeth then work your way up to the front teeth. Use a back and forth motion to brush the teeth.

3. 
   Diseased gums and teeth

   If the teeth have a lot of tartar on them or the gums are swollen or bleed easily then this should be brought to the attention of your vet. By keeping your dogs teeth clean this will ward off bigger problems that could directly affact internal organs such as the heart. Bacteria from diseased teeth enter the bloodstream which left unchecked could infect the heart, lungs, kidneys, and liver.

Tips & Warnings

• Check your dogs teeth at regular intervals
• If your dog is relunctant to eat check the teeth for sensitivity or pain
• Know how your dogs teeth look on a daily basis so if a problem arises you'll be aware that somethings off
• Make sure your dog is accepting of getting its teeth brushed
• Slowly introduce toothbrushing to avoid getting bit