Dental disease is the most common ailment for dogs over the age of three — with potential knock-on effects for the heart and liver. By brushing your dog’s teeth, you can take a proactive approach to their oral health.
Before you reach for the doggy toothpaste, let’s lay some ground rules.
Why is brushing your dog’s teeth important?
Tooth brushing helps to prevent plaque and bacteria buildup in the mouth, which accumulates after your dog has eaten. Bacteria is the most common cause of bad breath for dogs, and plaque will harden and become calculus with time.
Plaque, bad breath or reddening gums are early signs of gingivitis — the first stage of gum disease.
Below, we explain how to make your dog’s dental pamper sessions something they look forward to, as you build your trust in one another.
The bottom line about dental health for dogs
Mouth bacteria associated with dental disease can travel through the bloodstream to affect your dog’s organs, potentially leading to health conditions such as heart and liver disease. Smaller breeds — for example, chihuahuas and brachycephalic dogs — are more prone to dental disease as they have more teeth crowded into their mouth.
With persistence and knowledge under your belt, you can save your pup from more serious health concerns later in life — as well as dental procedures where anaesthetics or tooth extraction is needed.
Dental health is crucial for a happy and healthy dog, especially if they want to chow down on your shoes or their favourite Lyka meal. A dental home care plan, regular vet checks and an appropriate diet are key in building your dog’s dental health.
Our in-house Integrative Vet, Dr. Matthew Muir, recommends brushing every day, or at least three times a week in order to keep your dog’s chompers fresh and sparkling clean.
Which toothpaste is safe for brushing dogs’ teeth?
First things first – dogs need their own specially-made toothpaste. Not only does dog toothpaste taste better for your pooch – we’re talking chicken and beef flavour – but human toothpaste contains ingredients that can be toxic to dogs.
Be sure to choose an enzyme-based toothpaste, being mindful of any ingredients that your pet reacts to. Your vet can help you find alternatives to fit your dog’s needs.
Coconut oil, for example, is known for its antibacterial qualities. Research indicates that it could be effective in reducing plaque formation and plaque-induced gingivitis.
How to brush your dog’s teeth (in six steps)
Choose a quiet time and place, where both you and your dog can both relax and get comfortable. If your dog is small enough, hold them in your lap. Otherwise, they can sit by your side.
In short bursts, gently rub a finger over their mouth and teeth. Do this until they’re used to the contact.
Add a small amount of toothpaste to your finger, to help your pup get used to the taste. If your pup’s okay with the toothpaste alone but hates brushing, try dipping your finger in some bone broth first. Use your finger as a toothbrush so they have a positive association with the experience.
Cover your finger with gauze or a soft cloth to familiarise your dog with a toothbrush-like texture.
Start using a toothbrush with the toothpaste, starting with the front teeth and slowly working your way back as your dog gets more comfortable.
Encourage your dog with verbal praise and treats, and you’ll make teeth cleaning an experience that they look forward to.
Dr. Matthew Muir is an advocate for the Tellington TTOUCH Massage.
TTOUCH uses specific types of touch, movement and awareness exercises to help train animals and make them comfortable in a new environment or experience.
What if my dog refuses to have their teeth brushed?
If your pup has a history of dental interventions or shows signs of aggression, do not persist. Your vet can spot any pre-existing causes of pain, as well as desensitising your pupper through rewards and gradual exposure.
They can refer you to a vet behaviourist, who can help the two of you avoid any nasty accidents. Your vet will assess the state of your dog’s teeth and may suggest services like professional cleaning.
If you’ve tried all of the steps above but still aren’t having any luck getting your dog to tolerate it, it may be time to speak with your vet.
How your dog’s diet can affect their oral health
Brushing your dog’s teeth is a key aspect of caring for their dental health — but you can safeguard their chompers even further with a fresh diet. Fresh food is lower in carbohydrates, which means there is less plaque build-up on the teeth.
It is a common misconception that dry food prevents dental disease by scraping plaque from a dog’s teeth. There is no strong research providing evidence in favour of dry food or wet food — some studies claim that diet makes a difference; other studies claim it doesn’t make a difference.
There is evidence to support the theory that high carbohydrate diets can encourage teeth cavities and other dental issues, and kibble diets are generally high in carbohydrates (sugar). This is worth keeping in mind.
A few times a week, you can give your dog preservative-free pizzle sticks which act like doggy floss; kelp supplements and chews are also safe for dogs who don’t like other chewing aids. Steer clear of Nylabones or deer antlers, which can fracture your dog’s teeth.
Minimise plaque buildup with Lyka
Lyka’s recipes promote the production of saliva, which is rich in enzymes and antimicrobial agents. Our meals are rich in Ascophyllum nodosum — a kelp that has been proven to boost saliva’s ability to fight off bacteria.
Kick-start a healthy dental plan to nourish your dog from the inside out. Start seeing positive changes in their health today.
