6 Ways to Help Keep Your Dog’s Teeth Clean and Prevent Dental Disease

Keeping your pup’s teeth clean and healthy is an important part of being a good dog parent.

Tooth problems can be really rough on our pets. If left untreated they can lead to disease and decay, causing pain, discomfort, and issues with eating. Tooth and gum disease can even lead to kidney infections if they aren’t dealt with.

Unfortunately, doggie dental problems are all too common. In fact, over 80% of dogs older than three years old have some form of tooth disease! 

The good news is that with the right care and attention, you might be able to prevent periodontal disease for your dog, keeping their teeth healthy and keeping them happy.

Read on to find out six ways you can keep your dog’s teeth strong and clean, even as they age.

Brush Twice a Day

In an ideal world, all dogs would have their teeth brushed twice a day—just like we do. But in reality, few pet owners can manage this. 

Brushing your dog’s teeth can be an unpleasant experience, especially if you have a dog that’s very resistant to brushing.

But even if your pup doesn’t love getting their teeth scrubbed, it’s an important part of doggie maintenance. You should aim to brush those teeth two to three times per week at least. 

If your dog is resistant, consistency is key. Keep on working toward happy brushing. Try yummy toothpaste, they come in many different flavors.  Make sure to give plenty of affection afterward.

While you want to brush for two minutes, you can also start slow and work your way up. Once your dog gets used to brushing and it becomes part of the routine, it will be much easier for both of you.

Add Dental Treats to Your Dog’s Diet

Dental treats are another great way to keep your dog’s pearly whites nice and strong. These are special treats designed to remove the plaque from your pet’s teeth. 

Leading dental treat brands include Greenies, Dentastix, and American Journey. They come in a wide variety of flavors so you’re sure to find one your dog appreciates.

Make sure to read the directions on dental treats—they’re often high in calories and your pet’s food might need to be adjusted to accommodate them. 

Give Your Pup Dog Chews 

In addition to dental treats, dog chews are another enjoyable) way to strengthen your dog’s teeth. 

Dogs are natural chewers, which makes dog chews serve multiple purposes. Not only will they help remove plaque buildup, but they also provide healthy chewing release so your dog is less likely to seek other things in the house to chew on. 

Chews come in many different varieties, sizes, and flavors, from tiny bones to bully sticks. 

Just make sure to avoid rawhide chews, which can splinter and be dangerous for your dog.

Let Your Dog Play with Puppy Teething Sticks

While dog treats and chews can go a long way for your pet’s teeth healthy, not all solutions need to be edible. 

Puppy teething sticks are a fun way for your dog to get some of that chewing energy out and remove plaque in the process. They’re typically recommended for puppies going through teething phases, but even older playful dogs can benefit from them. 

Offer Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables

If you’re open to introducing some human food to your pup, fruit and vegetable snacks are a perfect way to help your dog’s teeth stay clean. 

Apple slices, cucumbers, carrots, and cantaloupe are healthy options that can also help clean your dog’s teeth while they eat. Plus, they’re packed with essential vitamins your dog needs. 

Make Regular Vet Visits

It’s tempting to slack off on regular trips to the vet, but teeth cleanings are not something you want to skip.

Commit to making a trip to the vet once per year for an annual cleaning. This is one of the most important things you can do to keep your dog’s teeth healthy and stave off tooth disease. 

It also gives you the best chance to catch the disease early so you can take the necessary steps before it leads to further infection.

Tooth Health Matters for Your Dog

Just remember that a healthy dog is a happy dog, and that includes having strong, clean teeth.

Taking care of your dog’s teeth takes commitment, dedication, and routine. But it’s worth it to protect your pup and make sure that they have the best life possible!