How to brush your Dog's Teeth
Step 1 - Select an appropriate time
Find a quiet, convenient time when you and your dog are both
relaxed.
Step 2 - Acquaint your dog with the process.
For the first few sessions don't even use a toothbrush.
Gently stroke the outside of her cheeks with your
finger. After she becomes comfortable with that, place a dab of
toothpaste on your finger and let her taste it. We usually suggest
starting with C.E.T. poultry flavored toothpaste, because pets like the
taste..
Step 3 - Introduce the Toothbrush
Place a small amount of toothpaste on the brush. In a
slow circular motion, brush one or two teeth and the adjoining gum
line. The purpose of this step is to get your dog accustomed to the
feel of the brush.
Step 4 - Begin Brushing
Over the next several days, gradually increase the number of
teeth brushed. It is important to eventually brush the rear teeth
where plaque and tartar have a greater tendency to accumulate. Go
slowly and gently. Stop brushing when you decide to stop,
before your dog begins to fuss. If she learns to dislike the
procedure and finds out that fussing makes you stop quicker, then this
brushing business is going to get harder, not easier.
Build up to about 30 seconds per side. Dogs don't get
much tartar on the inside surfaces of their teeth, so you only need to
worry about the outside surfaces Be sure to brush the big teeth way
in back.
Make tooth brushing a pleasurable experience
Proceed slowly and gently. Stop each session while it
is still fun and lavishly praise your dog afterwards.
She will soon start looking forward to tooth brushing and it will become a
pleasant activity for both of you.
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