As a pet parent, it’s your job to look after your dog’s teeth and gums. These dental care tools can help!
Keeping up with your dog’s dental health isn’t always easy… especially if you don’t have the right equipment. Here’s a handful of dental care tools and products that will ease the task for both of you.
Toothbrushes and toothpastes
This option might seem rather traditional, but a basic toothbrush is a must-have. Your own toothbrush won’t cut it, and your human-formulated toothpaste may contain ingredients that can harm your pup, so look for products designed specifically for dogs.
Ideally, you want to find a natural doggy toothpaste that contains safe, active ingredients that work to break down bacteria. Avoid surfactants (foaming agents), xylitol (a sweetening agent) and alcohol, which are all toxic to dogs.
When seeking a toothbrush, size is the most important consideration. Find one that will fit comfortably in your dog’s mouth, and make sure the handle is easy for you to hold onto.
Looking for something a little more modern? Many advancements have been made in the world of doggy dental health, and that includes a few upgrades to the classic toothbrush. Finger brushes, for instance, are designed to slide onto your finger so you can access those hard-to-reach areas.
Water additives
No matter how hard you try, some dogs can’t be trained to accept brushing. Until recently, the only alternative was to call on an expert for help. But now, there are numerous products available that clean your dog’s teeth and gums – with no brushing required!
Water additives are among these inventive solutions. Like human mouthwash, a good water additive should taste and smell good. Of course, it goes without saying that it shouldn’t contain any toxic ingredients.
Gels and sprays
Similar to water additives, dental gels and sprays are formulated to soften plaque and tartar, and freshen breath. They’re also a great tool when it comes to prevention, as the active ingredients kill bacteria and work under the gum line to stop buildup. The beauty of these products is that they’re extremely easy to administer, because they don’t have to be applied directly to the teeth and gums in order to work. Simply spray into your dog’s mouth, and the active ingredients will disperse in his salvia, coating all the nooks and crannies. Again, the key is to find a natural product.
Dental toys – are they effective?
These days, many people are opting to care for their dogs’ pearly whites by tossing them “dental toys”. This method of oral care certainly isn’t ineffective, but it’s also not entirely sufficient.
Instead, use toys as a way to complement an established dental care routine. They’re a wonderful – and enjoyable – way for your dog to keep on top of his own dental hygiene, and the right toy can even strengthen his teeth and gums while scraping away loose debris that can lead to plaque buildup. Look for high quality ropes and rubber chews that are the appropriate size and durability for your pooch.
