February is Pet Dental Health Month
For an animal family designation that shares a name with one of the most famous teeth, canine dental health can sure be a challenge! Any parent who’s ever had small children knows that teaching good dental hygiene is a challenge even when you speak the same language, so it’s no surprise that the custom of teeth brushing isn’t one that translates well between species! Luckily, you can do a few things to make your dogs’ teeth last longer and improve their health in the process. Here are our pet dental health tips.
Avoid Items That Can Hurt Your Dogs’ Teeth
Dogs love to explore with their mouths, especially when they’re young. But not everything they pick up is a good choice for chewing, not just because no one wants their furniture and shoes damaged.
It takes patience, training, and redirection when it comes to keeping your dog away from items that aren’t for them. Another helpful tool is Bitter Apple Spray. You can spray it on items like the corners of couches that your dogs like to chew, and the bad taste will deter them. But be warned – not all dogs dislike the taste!
Of course, keeping your dog away from non toys is only part of the issue because they can also get hurt on item marketed to dogs. Be careful only to give your dogs toys that are safe for them. Check online reviews and ask your friendly local vet. And remember, even with the best toys, not every toy is suitable for every dog!
Give Teeth Cleaning Foods
Many human foods are bad for dogs’ health. Just like people, sugar can cause tooth decay in dogs. Other foods are too hard and can cause chipping.
On the other side of the coin, there are several foods that are benefitical for canine dental health. Some of those include plain yogurt, whose probiotics improve their mouth biome, coconut oil with antimicrobial properties, and crunchy vegetables like carrots. They work like a natural toothbrush.
For some dogs, apples may be a good choice, but not for dogs particularly sensitive to sugar. Dental chews and treats in moderation may also aid in keeping your dog’s mouth clean – but only if they actually chew it.
Note: Though popular culture has long depicted it, you should not give your dog leftover bones. Cooked bones can splinter and pierce your dog’s mouth, throat, or digestive tract!
Teeth Brushing
Brushing your pup’s teeth ain’t always easy! But there are ways to make it go better.
Naturally, if you can get your dog used to having its teeth brushed from puppyhood, you’ll have an easier time brushing its teeth the rest of its life. Unfortunately… when we adopt an adult dog, that’s not always possible.
The key to getting your dog to tolerate brushing its teeth is to make it a positive experience. Always accompany it with its favorite things, like treats, attention, toys or whatever it is for your pup.
The other big tip is to start small. Brush one tooth and celebrate your victory with some positive reinforcement. Work up to the whole mouth a little at a time. Naturally, dogs with a trauma history may have a more difficult time tolerating it. Do the best you and your best friend can.
Get Regular Veterinary Dental Exams
Finally, just like people, dogs need dental exams. Unlike people, dogs are lucky enough to be able to get them at their GP! Old Dominion performs veterinary dental exams for our canine and feline patients. We also offer dental surgery, including extractions.
Start Improving Canine Dental Health Today!
The best time to start improving pet dental health is as soon as they get teeth. The second best time is right now! So talk to the vet at Old Dominion Veterinary Clinic if you need help on your canine dental health journey.