More pet owners are beginning to realize just how important dental care is for pets, as an increasing number of dogs and cats are having dental problems. Of course, you should make a point of consulting your vet as quickly as possible if you think that your dog or cat is having problems with their teeth or gums. However, some simple dental care and maintenance can be carried out quickly and easily at home.
Simply providing your dog with a piece of bone to chew on is one of the most effective ways to help him develop healthy and strong teeth. Always check for sharp points before giving your dog a bone.
Pekingese and other smaller breeds of dog have their teeth closer together in their mouth, and for this reason they are more likely to develop dental issues, such as tooth disease. Check for plaque on the teeth regularly if you have a Pekingese or other small dog breed.
Giving your dog a raw beef bone every so often is one of the best ways to reduce the chances of disease and bacteria, and to prevent plaque from building up. Although you should do it very carefully, you can brush your dog’s teeth much as you would brush your own teeth. You will need to use special pet designed toothpaste and a toothbrush recommended by your vet.
Take a look in your local pet store to get an idea of the range of dental products designed specifically for dogs, and that can help to get rid of a lot of that tarter and plaque. Some toys for dogs and some brands of dry dog food are designed to help to keep your dog’s teeth clean.
You can buy special dental wipes designed to get rid of plaque and tarter from your dog’s teeth, and doing this regularly can help to greatly reduce the chances of periodontal disease. If you feel that you just can’t effectively clean your dog’s teeth or you suspect that you aren’t getting rid of all the plaque, you will need to make an appointment for the vet to do it.