Simple Steps to Brush Your Doggy's Teeth

Observing proper hygiene is one safest way to avoid having contagious diseases and maintaining over-all wellness of the entire family, and such practice now should not just be limited to the human dwellers because pets especially dogs and cats also need to do the same. Of course, they cannot do that on their own and their masters have crucial role in providing them the care that would keep the home always clean. It is more particularly in the case of bathing and toothbrushing considering that only the pet owners can do such for dogs, and through which every member of the family is protected because if pets at home are healthy, everyone is safe and sound to rest and play. But if you still do not know how to brush your doggy's teeth in a comfortable way, then these simple steps are what you should follow:

Brush on the Right Timing

It is always best to do the toothbrushing when your dog is calm and relaxed to avoid undesirable consequence when you just compell or force him to cooperate with you. As experts suggested, you have to set routine or develop habit of brushing daily so he will just get used to it. On how frequent should you do this is dependent on the condition of his teeth, but do not ever forget it because the plaque might possibly build up and may result to gum disease, tooth decay, bad breath and severe infection.

Prepare Appropriate Tools Ahead

Do not try to experiment on your pet's teeth by merely using whatever tools you have at home such as junked toothbrushes for that might worsen his denture. You should use toothbrush that is specially made for dogs because their bristles are softer and angled for specific use. It is also noteworthy that the type of toothbrush you should use is dependent on the size of your dog; specifically, the finger brush works well for under 30 pounds while those with longer handles are best for larger dogs.

Position Yourself Properly

You should find a spot where both of you are comfortable so that you can brush smoothly or without delay. Usually, it is ideal to kneel or sit in front or to the side of your pet to avoid showing a threatening gesture like when you stand above him and make strange stance. In other words, it is crucial to lower down or take off your dog's anxiety before you begin toothbrushing.

Get Dog's Gums Ready

This is one way of testing your pet's willingness to have his teeth brushed by you by rubbing your finger along the upper gums and teeth. It would help in making him get used of what you do with his teeth, but be careful to use light pressure and ensure comfort in every brushing session.

Test the Toothpaste and Toothbrush

These materials are available in various flavors, sizes, and styles and your task is to find the most appropriate ones for your dog. In testing them, you should have initial trials for both and the results of which are your basis on what to use for your pet. Do not try to use human toothpaste because its ingredients may hurt his stomach, and when it comes to toothbrush, try different styles that are easy to use and best in cleaning.

Use Circular Motion and Focus on the Plaque

It is advised that the proper brushing should be done in small circles and getting top and bottom and in each side. Do not make it too heavy because that might cause unnecessary bleeding which may result to gum disease. Further, the process would be simpler if you focus only on the plaque especially when your dog feels uncomfortable with your brushing. Nevertheless, if you are unsure of what you will do, better to ask your veterinarian first.

If you have properly done the aforementioned steps, never forget to give your dog a reward because a positive end as noted by experts is what can lead you to a good beginning when you do it next time.