How to clean your dog's teeth

Brushing your dog’s teeth might seem like a chore, but it could be an enjoyable bonding activity for both you and your dog.

Here’s a step-to-step guide on how you can make this basic grooming routine also fun and rewarding:

Step 1: Get your dog used to the taste of the toothpaste.

It is important for your dog to get used to the flavor and consistency of the toothpaste. You can do so by letting your canine companion lick a little bit of the toothpaste off your finger. Don’t forget to reward your dog when he or she licks it off.

Step 2: Make sure your dog is comfortable with having something placed against his or her teeth and gums.
It is one thing for your dog to be used to the taste of the toothpaste, but it’s another thing for your dog to feel comfortable with the act of brushing. You can slowly ease your dog to it by applying a small amount of toothpaste to your finger and rubbing it on of the large canine teeth in the front.

Step 3: Get your dog used to a toothbrush or dental sponge.

Getting your dog used to the bristles of a toothbrush can be quite a challenge, but just do it consistently until your dog gets the hang of it. At first, you may just want to brush one or both upper canine teeth. Give it about a week and your dog should have no trouble licking the toothpaste off the brush after.

Step 4: Get brushing

Lift your dog’s upper lip gently and place the brush at a 45º angle to your dog’s gum line. Gently move the brush back and forth, and keep at it for about five minutes. When your dog accepts having several teeth brushed, gradually increase the number of teeth you are brushing. While you’re at it, make sure to talk to your dog in a happy voice while you are doing the brushing. It helps relax your dog and makes him or her feel more comfortable.

The truth is – the hardest part about brushing your dog’s teeth is getting started. Once you have done it for a while, it just becomes part of your daily routine.