Does your dog hate brushing their teeth? Here are a few tips to get them more comfortable 😁🐾, by Lisa Gallegos - Dog Training on YouTube. 1 min 1 s.
- Video length
- 1 min 1 s
- Time to do it
- 10 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 7
What you need
Steps
Choose a brush that fits your dog's mouth. A soft-bristled pet brush suits most dogs, and a finger brush works well for small breeds and puppies.
Squeeze a pea-sized blob of dog toothpaste onto your finger and let your dog lick it off. Repeat this for a few days so the taste becomes a good thing.
Once your dog leans in for the toothpaste, smear some on the brush and let them lick and chew it for a few seconds. Praise and treat.
Gently lift the lip with one hand and touch the brush to a few teeth for two or three seconds. Start with the large back teeth on the upper jaw.
Stop while your dog is still relaxed, then give a treat. Short, calm sessions beat one long struggle.
Add a few more teeth each session until you can brush the outside of every tooth on both sides, top and back.
Work up to about 30 seconds per side. Aim to brush daily, or at least three or four times a week, to keep plaque down.
Tips and common mistakes
Never use human toothpaste. Fluoride and xylitol are toxic to dogs, so use a paste made for pets.
Brush after a walk or play session when your dog is calm and tired, not right before dinner.
If the brush scares your dog, wrap a gauze pad around your finger and rub the teeth with that first.
Do not hold the mouth shut or force it open. Pull back and try again tomorrow if your dog struggles.
Questions
How often should I brush my dog's teeth?
Daily is ideal for preventing plaque and gum disease. Three or four times a week still helps a lot if daily is not realistic.
Can I use baking soda or my own toothpaste?
No. Human toothpaste can upset a dog's stomach and some brands contain xylitol, which is poisonous to dogs. Use a pet toothpaste.
What if my dog growls or snaps?
Stop and give the dog space. A dog in pain may guard its mouth, so have a vet check the teeth before you keep training.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
