Jack Russell Terriers

If your dog already has dental problems, have your dogs teeth cleaned by your veterinarian. Then you can start a maintenance program.

What to Use When Brushing My Dogs Teeth

Let’s start with what not to use. Don’t ever use your toothpaste on your dog. Human toothpaste contains flouride which is harmful if swallowed. It is also made to foam, which would make brushing your dog’s teeth difficult.

Dog toothpaste is made so that it can be swallowed. It does not require rinsing.

To brush your dog’s teeth, place your hand over the top of his mouth (the long part between his eyes and nose, and gently pull up the skin on the sides of his mouth that cover the gums. Then brush the exposed teeth. You can use a dog toothbrush or a finger toothbrush. There is also a bone shaped toothbrush made for letting your dog brush his own teeth – Farnam Easy Brush(tm) for Dogs.

If your dog will not let you brush his teeth, you can still buy a doggy toothbrush and doggy toothpaste and let your dog chew on the brush like Cocoa. Be sure to check the brush for any loose bristles before putting the toothpaste on the brush. Push the toothpaste down between the bristles so that your dog will not just lick the toothpaste off the brush. Another great product to use is Greenies.

Signs of Dental Diseases in Dogs

Does your dog have bad breath? That is the most obvious sign of a problem. Don’t overlook it thinking that all dogs have bad breath. By two or three years of age, many pets start to show signs of dental problems or oral disease.