Dog Dental Care: 3 Ways to Look After Your Dog’s Teeth

Serena Faber Nelson Founder & Pet Lifestyle Writer

Pet lifestyle expert Serena Faber-Nelson is the founder of Pretty Fluffy. A contributor to Everyday with Rachael Ray, Modern Dog Magazine, Cesars Way and more; her modern, stylized take on DIY dog treats has seen her recipes viewed millions of times over.

Serena is the author of the go-to dog mom bible, Dog Mama, and the popular dog treat recipe book, Healthy Homemade Dog Treats.

One of my proudest moments as a puppy mama came the day that my vet told me how brilliant Soda’s teeth were.

You see I’m THAT person who likes to be told by the dentist that my teeth are better than the last person they saw, that all that flossing is paying off, that quite possibly if there was an award for best cared teeth I would win it. The president would give me some sort of tooth shaped award and I would travel in Hunger Games style to show off my enamel excellence.

So of course my dentistry derangement extends to my dog. Because for reals, dog dental care and good teeth is no laughing matter for dogs. Infections, gum problems and dental disease in pooches can actually lead to life threatening problems. Then who would accompany you on your Hunger Games tour?

As Soda’s now in her retirement era – or as I like to call it, her Golden Girls phase – I’ve literally been there and done that with ways to care for her teeth. Some have been easier than others, some more effective and all of them a step in the right direction for canine dental care.

Here are my top 3 suggestions for keeping your dog’s smile healthy and happy…

1. Teeth Cleaning

I know these two words can strike fear into every dog owner’s heart. However, if you can start the process of teeth cleaning with a puppy, brushing your dog’s teeth can become as simple as brushing their coat. Even if your dog is older, introducing it into their routine slowly allows them to get used to the process.

Choose either a double headed toothbrush or a “finger brush” and get your dog used to brushing in short sessions when they’re less excitable (like after a walk or a marathon viewing of Keeping up with the Kardashians). Always use a dog specific toothpaste (some come in beef and chicken flavors); as human toothpaste can cause tummy upsets. Be gentle when brushing, and always look to your pet to whether they’re comfortable enough to continue. If you can actually get your dog to start brushing their own teeth – well, you can have my Hunger Games medal.

Brushing 2-3 times a week has shown to be effective in improving your dog’s dental health, but it’s fair to say some dogs will just never be that into it. Luckily for them there are many more things you can do to help their pearly whites!

Pictured:

Kissable Dog Toothpaste and Toothbrush

2. Dental Chews

Dental chews are a great way to reduce the build up of plaque and tartar on dogs’ teeth – in one convenient package. Coming in sizes for small to large dogs, they are suitable for all shapes and sizes.

For Soda, these have been the easiest way to look after her teeth in recent years. As she’s aged, her stomach doesn’t always agree with fresh bones; yet dental chews have worked a treat! (Literally.) When chewed they exhibit a thorough scraping motion on the tooth that helps prevent dental problems in dogs.

One of the latest and greatest dental chews on the market is Supercoat Dental Chews. Endorsed by celebrity vet, Dr Harry Cooper, they feature a unique 3 piece twist specially designed to help clean your dog’s teeth. As an added bonus the treats come in a mint and parsley flavor to keep your dog’s breath fresh!

One of these a day keeps the tooth fairy away.

3. Dental Toys

Last but definitely not least, are the playtime toys that help clean your dog’s teeth without them even knowing. Playtime AND dog dental care? TOTALLY. These toys are shaped in ways that massage and clean your dog’s teeth and gums while they happily chew away. My favourite picks include the iconic Kong toys, and the Mungo & Maud Rubber Bear Chew, however any non-toxic rubber, rawhide and nylon toys will make a difference.

While the cleaning process is not as thorough as the brushing or dental chews, adding a couple of these toys to your playtime dog’s rotation can help prevent dental disease all while their having the time of their lives.

Pictured:

Senior Kong

Mungo & Maud Rubber Gum Bear Dog Toy

I’d love to hear in the comments below – How do you keep your dog’s teeth healthy?

This post was brought to you by Supercoat Dental Chews – available in all good supermarkets and pet stores. For more information and to see the full range visit Supercoat Dental Chews.