Brushing your teeth is one of those things you do without really thinking about it – it’s just a habit. But while most of us brush our own teeth twice a day like clockwork, how often are you brushing your dog’s?
In the UK, less than 10% of dog parents reach for the best dog toothpaste and brush those chompers, research has shown, even though not doing so can lead to health problems. Many people just aren’t aware of the importance of brushing a dog’s teeth, which is where the experts come in.
Dr Charlotte Rice, a vet with pet supplement brand YuMove, explains that it’s important to keep dog teeth clean.
“Not brushing your dog's teeth regularly can lead to a build-up of plaque and tartar, which can cause dental problems leading to bad breath, gum disease, tooth loss, and even general health problems.”
She acknowledges that brushing a dog’s teeth can be difficult, with some dogs being very energetic and others feeling distressed by it. However, you could try using a finger brush with silicone bristles, dog-specific toothbrushes, which you could move onto once your dog gets used to the process, and dog-specific toothpastes in flavors dogs enjoy – not the usual mint!
“When brushing, it’s important to stay as calm as this helps to keep your dog as relaxed as possible,” she adds. “Try to get your dog used to brushing from when they are a puppy. This said, it’s never too late to get started at any stage of your dog's life.ˮ
Dr Rice recommends trying to brush your dog’s teeth once a day, or at least three times a week – this will help reduce the risk of conditions like dog gum diseases. She adds, “The most important thing to remember if you are going to use a toothpaste, is to use one that’s specially designed for pets as human toothpastes contain xylitol, which is toxic to our furry friends.”
Meanwhile, the best dental sticks and chews are also useful, helping your dog to keep their teeth clean while giving them a treat they love. Just be mindful not to overfeed them to avoid weight gain and it’s a win-win for your pup – they shouldn’t replace brushing, however.
Read next: How to brush a dog’s teeth and How to remove tartar build-up in dogs
