If you’re a dog owner, you’re probably already at least somewhat aware of just how dirty your dog’s teeth might be. As dogs get older, their teeth become dirtier, and if you don’t practice good hygiene for their teeth in their early years, it can be tricky to get them back to a healthy state later on.
However, all is not lost! In this article, we’ll show you five of our top tips to help keep your dog’s teeth clean in Miami, FL. With this information, you should be ready to help your dog keep his teeth stronger, healthier, and in better shape for longer.
Dental Treats
One of the easiest ways to help keep up with your dog’s regular teeth cleaning is to give him dental treats. These treats are designed to scrape plaque from your dog’s teeth while he chews, which helps them stay cleaner for longer.
Most of these dog dental treats come in flavors that are enticing to dogs, but they also contain peppermint or other breath-freshening ingredients. They are usually available in sizes for all breeds of dogs. Keep in mind, however, that they are very stiff treats, so puppies or old dogs who have bad teeth already may be unable to chew them.
Regular Teeth Brushing
Another great way to improve your dog’s dental health and cleanliness is to keep up with regular brushing. Brushing your dog’s teeth may sound like a challenge, but for the most part, dogs usually respond well to the process if you take your time working up to the final goal.
To get started, first get your dog used to having his teeth touched. From there, you can introduce a dog-safe toothbrush and dog-safe toothpaste as well. When your dog is used to all the components, you can then brush his teeth at least a couple of times a month.
Healthy Food
Keeping your dog on a healthy dry food is another important way to keep his teeth clean. Dogs need at least some dry food in their regular diets, and this is due in part to its benefits on their dental health. The more your dog eats dry food, the more his teeth will be cleaned naturally by chewing and crunching.
Speak with your veterinarian if you need some recommendations for your dog’s specific dry food needs. Certain dogs may have different food ingredient needs, and you should always keep in mind your dog’s breed size when choosing a food as well.
Dog-Safe Chew Toys
Many dog-safe chew toys are designed for teeth cleaning and overall dental health as well. Purchase high-quality toys for your dog and stick with brands that focus on the health needs of different dog breeds and sizes.
Additionally, you can purchase toys that are designed for different stages in a dog’s life. You can find puppy teething toys and continue “graduating” your dog as he gets older and his dental needs change. Generally speaking, firmer and more solid toys are better for teeth cleaning than soft toys, so keep this in mind as well.
Regular Professional Dog Teeth Cleanings in Miami, FL
The best way to keep your dog’s teeth clean and ensure he doesn’t have health problems from poor dental hygiene later on in his life is to take him to the vet for regular dog teeth cleanings. Your vet will be able to give you more information about what they can offer your dog in terms of teeth cleanings.
Some dogs may not be able to be anesthetized for dental cleanings, either due to age, health conditions, or some other reason. If this is true of your dog, your vet will also be able to give you some other suggestions to consider moving forward.
Get Started with Dog Teeth Cleaning in Miami, FL
Now that you’ve had a chance to learn a little bit more about how to handle your dog’s dental health, it’s time to get started. If you’ve never cleaned your dog’s teeth before, then taking him to the vet for a checkup and teeth cleaning might be the best place to get started. If your dog is still a young puppy, however, you can probably get started with some of the other options on this list instead.
Remember that it’s up to you to keep up with your dog’s dental health, since he can’t do it himself.
Ready to talk with your vet about dog teeth cleaning in Miami, FL? Call Country Club Animal Hospital at (305) 663-3300 or book an appointment using our online form!