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How to Brush and Care for Your Dog's Teeth: The Health Benefits of Dental Hygiene


A dog having their teeth brushed
Good dog dental care can help prevent dental disease

Did you know that one of the most important things you can do for your dog's health is to brush their teeth? Just like with humans, tooth decay and dental disease are very common in dogs. In fact, 80% of dogs will have some form of dental problem by the time they reach three years old. Brushing their teeth may seem like a hassle, but it is well worth the effort. In this article, we will discuss the health benefits of brushing your dog's teeth, as well as how to do it and the best way to introduce good dental care into your dog's life!


Contents of this article


Benefits of brushing your dog's teeth


Checking a dog's teeth as part of good dental hygiene routine
Checking your dog's teeth regularly can help prevent problems

When it comes to your dog's health, brushing their teeth should be one of your top priorities. Not only is tooth decay and gum disease very common in dogs, but these problems can also lead to more serious health issues down the road.

Some of the key benefits of dental care for your dog include:

  • Preventing tooth decay and dental disease

  • Reducing bad breath

  • Helping to maintain healthy teeth and gums

How to brush your dog's teeth


A dog having his teeth brushed
How to brush your dog's teeth

Brushing their teeth is not difficult, but it does require a little bit of patience and some practice. Here are a few tips on how to get started:


Start by getting your dog used to having its mouth handled.


Touch their lips, gums, and teeth with your fingers regularly, so that they become comfortable with the sensation.


A dog sniffing some toothpaste for dogs
Let them have a sniff and get used to the smell and taste

Next, put a small amount of toothpaste on your finger.


Rub it around all of your dog's teeth, using circular motions. Be sure to get all of the tooth surfaces, including the back molars.


Finally, use a toothbrush to brush your dog's teeth


In the same way that you brushed them with your finger. Be sure to use gentle motions and go over each tooth surface at least two or three times.


Reasons why you should brush your dog's teeth


a cute puppy holding a toothbrush for dogs
Start a good dental hygiene routine from an early age

Tooth decay and dental disease are very common in dogs, but tooth brushing can help reduce these problems.

  • Doggies with tooth decay and dental disease are more likely to suffer from other health problems like heart disease, kidney failure, and liver disease.

  • Tooth decay and gum disease can cause bad breath, which is not only unpleasant for your dog, but also for you.

  • Brushing your dog's teeth helps to keep them clean and healthy, which reduces the risk of tooth loss.

  • Regular tooth brushing can also help prevent cavities.

Types of toothpaste to use on dogs


canine dental hygiene can prevent dental disease

There is a wide variety available for canines. Human products are not safe for your furry friend and you should never use human toothpaste. Here are a few tips on choosing the right toothpaste for your dog:


Look for toothpaste that is specifically designed for dogs.


These kinds of toothpaste are made with ingredients that are safe for our furry friends, and they will be labelled as such.


Toothpaste for dogs available from Ralph Woofington online shop for dogs
Dogslife toothpaste from Ralph Woofington

Avoid products that contain fluoride.

Fluoride is toxic to canines, and it can cause serious health problems if swallowed.


Be mindful of allergies or sensitivities

If your dog has any allergies or sensitivities, be sure to choose something that is free of allergens.


Find a flavour your dog will love

Choose a toothpaste that is tasty enough that your dog will enjoy licking it off their teeth.

You can find a great dog dental care range by Dogs Life, available on this website. Check out the dog dental care kit which includes a triple-headed toothbrush, see the dog dental care kit here.


canine dental care kit from Ralph Woofington the online pet shop
The dental care kit by Dogslife

Types of toothbrushes to use on dogs


There are a variety of doggy toothbrushes available, and each one has its own benefits. Here are a few tips on choosing the right toothbrush for your dog:

  • Choose a toothbrush that is soft enough that it will not damage your dog's teeth or gums.

  • If your dog is resistant to having its mouth handled, choose a toothbrush with a long handle so that you can brush their teeth from a distance.

  • Choose a toothbrush that is easy to clean and will not harbour bacteria.

  • Avoid toothbrushes with hard bristles, as these can damage your dog's teeth and gums.

This triple-headed toothbrush by Dogs Life will help you clean your dog's teeth quickly and easily thanks to its innovative design.


Triple-headed toothbrush for dogs by Dogslife from Ralph Woofington the online shop for dogs
Triple-headed toothbrush for dogs by Dogslife