Good oral hygiene is important for a dog’s entire life and contributes to their overall health and well-being. When you have a new puppy at home, it can be tough to get into a good routine, so here are 8 dental health tips for puppies to get you off on the right paw!
Puppyhood is a critical time for a dog, and a young pup’s experiences can stay with them for life. This is why it’s so important to get into a good oral hygiene routine early on. Beyond that, regular oral care prevents periodontal disease and bad breath, so let’s look at some of the best dental health tips for puppies that will help you build good habits early.
1. Don’t Delay
Toothbrushing is one of the most effective ways to keep your dog’s mouth clean and fresh while preventing periodontal disease. It’s a lot easier to train a puppy to accept toothbrushing compared to an older dog, so dental care should start as soon as your puppy joins your family.
2. Establish a Regular Routine
Daily brushing is ideal, and you should brush for at least a minute. You don’t have to do it at the same time every day, but you can if it helps you maintain the routine. For example, you might want to brush your dog’s teeth every night before bed after you brush your own.
3. Use Products Made for Dogs
Human toothpaste is dangerous for dogs, and human toothbrushes aren’t configured for a dog’s mouth. This is why it’s important to invest in the right tools:
- A dog toothbrush that can clean teeth of all shapes and sizes
- Canine toothpaste that’s safe for dogs and has an appealing flavor
- A bite blocker that protects your fingers and their gums
4. Visit the Veterinarian Regularly
Your veterinarian can assess your puppy’s dental health and provide professional cleanings if necessary. They can also offer guidance on oral care specific to your puppy’s needs, so this is one of the most important dental health tips for puppies.
5. Feed a Healthy Diet
There are specially formulated dental recipes available for dogs, but you probably won’t need one if you start your dental care routine early and stick with it. The most important thing is choosing a high-quality food that provides all the nutrients your puppy needs to grow and maintain health.
6. Know the Signs of Periodontal Disease
Again, this shouldn’t be an issue if you keep on top of your dog’s oral hygiene, but it’s still good to know the signs of gum disease:
- Bad breath
- Swollen gums
- Discolored teeth
- Difficulty eating
- Loose teeth
- Bleeding gums
7. Don’t Let Them Chew Hard Objects
It’s common for puppies to chew on things they shouldn’t because they’re curious or trying to alleviate teething pain. But things like rocks, ice cubes, and tennis balls can damage their teeth, so steer clear!
8. Practice Positive Reinforcement
Praise, toys, and treats can work miracles, including when it comes to encouraging toothbrushing.
The Best-Quality Supplies for Your Four-Legged Best Friend
PawReady specializes in dental care products for dogs of all ages. Their Brushmate Toothbrush has heads on both ends to make brushing a breeze, and their enzymatic toothpaste is made with natural ingredients that control plaque and tartar. And their natural rubber BiteBlocks gently prevent your dog from biting down on your fingers so you can concentrate on a perfect clean every time.
Visit PawReady to learn more and for more dental health tips for puppies and dogs!
Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.
