Dental problems in dogs can get quite serious. A rotten tooth can lead to infection that can spread throughout the dog's body and to its brain or heart, it can even be fatal. People assume that since wild wolves do not need their teeth brushed neither should pet dogs but this is a mistake. Wild wolves gnaw on bones which clean their teeth, and their diet is natural; not like the diets we feed many of our pet dogs.

About Dog's Teeth

Dog' teeth do not get cavities like human teeth, but dental care is still very important. In humans digestion starts in the mouth with digestive enzymes. This is not true of dogs so when food remains in their mouth it is more likely to cause them problems. You will notice most dogs do not chew their food as much as we do, but food still does get stuck in their teeth. Dogs are prone to have problems with plaque and gingivitis.

If things get bad your dog may have bad breath, or its teeth may be green, or gray, as the result of neglect for dental care. At this stage a veterinarian would be required, but a dog own can prevent problems simply by brushing their dog's teeth before problems get bad.

photo source - picture dirty teeth on a dog.

How to Train a Dog to Accept its Teeth Being Brushed

The best time to train your dog to have its teeth brushed is after exercising, so it is a bit more tired out and less playful.

Ideally you can start when the dog is a puppy, teaching it basic manners and getting it use to you handling its mouth and teeth. You will want to have the puppy in a sit position, and hold its mouth gently with one hand, (usually your left) while you put one finger into the mouth, rubbing against a tooth and the gum area briefly, then rewarding with praise. Do the same thing on the other side of the mouth too.

Eventually you can get a toothbrush kit for brushing your dog's teeth. Most kits consist of dog toothpaste, toothbrush and rubber thimble. For small dogs you may not want the brush at all and will just use the thimble. The thimble is also used for training. The dog will accept the thimble on your finger and you can easily feel your way around to brush the teeth, using toothpaste when your dog accepts this.

At first only spend a second or two on each tooth. Gradually you can work up so you spend 5 seconds on a tooth.

photo source - picture of dog with clean teeth

Tips and Warnings about Brushing a Dog's Teeth

Note that you should never use toothpaste made for humans. Human toothpaste contains too much fluoride for dogs, and some flavorings, or sweeteners, can also be toxic to dogs. A human toothbrush may be used on a larger dog but is not the idea. A wet wash cloth may also be used in place of a toothbrush.

Dogs fed raw diets usually require less dental care than dogs on a commercial dog food. Canned food in gravy is a particular problem causer, but even dry food can contribute to dental problems in dogs.

There are many treats that help keep dogs teeth clean.

Some people brush their dogs teeth daily, others weekly.  Over all it costs less to brush your own dog's teeth than to have a veterinarian do it, but they will do it too.  Some dog groomers will brush your dog's teeth.