HOW TO INTRODUCE THE TOOTHBRUSH TO YOUR DOG

The most important thing to remember is to make brushing a positive experience.  If your dog does not enjoy the brushing process, then most owners stop persisting.

Choose either a dog toothbrush and toothpaste kit or just use a kids soft bristled toothbrush and water

Week one

Each day show your dog the toothbrush and then give a treat

Week two

By the time you reach week 2, most dogs will see the toothbrush and it will trigger an understanding that a treat is coming.  The toothbrush now means “treat”!

Once your dog is excited by the sighting of the toothbrush then touch the tooth brush to your dog’s lips followed by a treat.

Week three

Now your dog should be tolerating the touching of the toothbrush to the lips. If you are using dog toothpaste, you may like to let your dog have a sniff and taste of the paste.

See if your dog will tolerate a gentle rub of the front teeth with the toothbrush followed immediately by a treat.

Week four

By week four your dog should be tolerating the brush entering his mouth and allowing you to gently brush some teeth.  

DON’T RUSH

DON’T TRY TO BRUSH THE ENTIRE MOUTH

FOLLOW EVERY SESSION BY A DESIRED FOOD REWARD

Overtime as your dog understands that this is part of the daily routine and always leads to a desired food reward you may find you can give the whole mouth a good brush.

Initially focus on the incisors (small front teeth) and canines (large pointy teeth).  The molars at the back of the mouth get a work out with chewing.  You can include the molars when the dog will allow.

If you can manage to brush your dog’s teeth THREE times per week it will reduce plaque by 75% and this will reduce tartar and subsequent periodontal disease.

GOOD LUCK