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According to BARK, almost 70% of dog parents have never brushed their dog’s teeth. Yikes! If you’re a part of this statistic – whether it’s because your dog won’t sit still or because you think dental chewies suffice – there is no time like the present to make it a habit. After all, your furry friend’s well-being depends on it! To learn why your dog’s dental health is so important (as well as how to keep their teeth and gums happy and healthy), keep reading. Why Your Dog’s Dental Health Matters Did you know that recent medical studies have found that more than 80% of dogs have developed oral disease by the time they are three? In the beginning, this can result in “small” consequences, like bad breath. Over time, however, the infection can progress, requiring expensive surgery to address. So, if you’re a part of the 78% of pet parents who believe their dog won’t experience a dental issue, think again. A Step-by-Step Guide to Daily Brushing Step 1: Buy the right tools – Naturally, you’ll need a toothbrush and toothpaste designed specifically for dogs. These products are meant to make the process more efficient and enjoyable for both you and your furry friend, so they’ll be well worth the investment. Step 2: Find the right time – In short, you want your dog to be in a calm and relaxed mood. For example, your dog will likely be much more compliant after a long walk vs. if they’ve been stuck in the house all day. Note: once you find a time that works, set a routine! Step 3: Get in the right position – Don’t take an aggressive stance or pin your dog down to keep them still. This will just heighten their dislike for having their teeth cleaned. Instead, kneel in front of them, give them a few pets, and gently work toward brushing their teeth. Step 4: Take baby steps – Your dog (and you!) may need some time to adjust. That’s perfectly okay. The first step may be simply finding a toothpaste flavor that your dog views as a treat. From there, try running your finger gently along your dog’s teeth and gums to get them used to the sensation. Before you know it, you’ll be a big step closer to daily brushing. Step 5: Focus on the plaque – Ideally, you’ll brush your dog’s teeth for two minutes at a time. If you aren’t quite there yet, then focus the time you do have on the teeth that have collected the most plaque. You would never go days without brushing your teeth or years without visiting your dentist for a checkup and cleaning, right? Otherwise, you could face a number of oral health problems, including gum disease and tooth loss. Since your furry friend is vulnerable to the same concerns, it’s important to prioritize prevention, starting with an at-home brushing routine.
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