You brush your teeth twice a day, in the morning and before bed. We’re all used to following this sage advice from our dentists, but you did you know that dogs should be brushing once a day too?

Taking oral health seriously

Only 2% of dog owners take this advice to heart and implement daily brushing for their pooches. Common excuses include things like not having the time, thinking a chew toy means clean teeth or that their dog hates the whole thing.

But making up reasons to avoid brushing only affects your dog’s health. Expecting anything other than specialist dental products to clean teeth effectively is just naive.

Make the time to look after your dog’s oral health and improve their life. They’ll soon come to accept it as part of their daily routine.

Preventing diseases

Gum and mouth diseases can turn into scary conditions. In extreme cases, they can lead to things like mouth cancer, leaving you broken hearted and with big bills. Taking care of your dog’s teeth at home can improve their comfort as well at their health – and give you extra precious years with your pooch.

Avoiding the vet

Of course, you can visit your vet for a thorough clean. They’ll put your dog under anesthetic and give their teeth a good scrubbing. But there are risks associated with this, as well as sometimes prohibitive costs. Think of a vet’s clean like a trip to the hygienist for yourself. Would getting your teeth cleaned professionally once or twice a year stop you brushing daily?

With all that in mind, take control of your pooch’s oral health with our five steps to better teeth.

1. Practice makes perfect

If you’re dog isn’t used to having their mouth handled then they’re probably going to wonder what on earth you’re doing if you come at them with a toothbrush all of a sudden. The trick is to make it a pleasant experience, so start slow.

Each day at the same time, open up your dog’s mouth and just touch their teeth. Get them used to you feeling their teeth and give them a treat once you’re done. Your dog will soon cotton on that teeth touching means treats, but keep up the game for a few weeks so you’re sure they’re happy.

2. Choose your tools

Don’t try to brush your dog’s teeth with human toothpaste and brushes – it might make them sick. Most pet shops will have nice, meaty flavours of specialised doggy toothpaste you can use so go for a taste you know they’ll love.

3. Don’t rush it

Gently rub the the brush across your dog’s teeth on one side, nice and slow. Try brushing one side of their mouth first and then giving them a treat. Follow with the other side and another treat. Your dog will soon learn that there’s something to look forward to after being handled.

4. Upgrade your toys

Try using dental sticks to help with your pooch’s oral hygiene too. They’ll help remove stubborn particles from your dog’s teeth – you might even be able to replace treats with dental sticks entirely. You’ll still need to actually brush your pup’s teeth though.

5. Polish things off

A dental wipe or spray is like using mouthwash at the end of brush. They can optimise a clean feel and help with gum health and bad breath, so finish off with a quick spray for maximum meaty freshness.

Healthy dogs live almost two years longer than unhealthy dogs, so looking after every aspect of their wellbeing is vital. Download PoochPlay today and our inbuilt personal assistant will never let you forget a teeth cleaning session again, and our tracker will help you to keep your dog healthy and happy!