🦷 More Than Fresh Breath: Essential Tips for Maintaining Your Dog's Dental Health
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Hello Plaque Patrol and PetPaws Emporium Customers!
Dental disease is the most common health problem found in dogs over three years old. Poor dental hygiene doesn't just cause bad breath; it leads to painful infections, tooth loss, and bacteria that can travel through the bloodstream, affecting vital organs like the heart and kidneys. Brushing is the gold standard for prevention.
1. The Gold Standard: Brushing
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Frequency: Ideally, brush your dog's teeth daily, or at least 3-4 times a week.
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The Tools: Use a dog-specific toothbrush (it has angled bristles) and dog-specific toothpaste (human toothpaste is toxic to dogs due to Xylitol and fluoride). The act of brushing is what removes the plaque.
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Technique: Focus on the outside surfaces of the teeth and the back molars, where plaque builds up fastest. Start slowly with short sessions and use positive reinforcement.
2. Chews and Water Additives (The Supplements)
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Dental Chews: Choose chews that are specifically designed to reduce plaque and tartar (often vet-approved). They work by providing abrasive friction against the tooth surface.
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Water Additives: Some additives contain enzymes that break down bacteria in the water bowl. They are a good supplement to brushing, but not a replacement.
3. Annual Vet Check
Even with regular brushing, take your dog for an annual professional dental exam. Your vet can determine if a deep cleaning (under anesthesia) is required to address tartar buildup below the gum line.
🛒 Bright Smile: Shop Dental Care!
Ready to protect your dog's teeth and overall health?
Explore our selection of dog toothbrushes, enzymatic toothpaste, and vet-approved dental chews at PetPaws Emporium!
Click Here to Shop Dog Toothpaste, Toothbrushes, and Dental Chews at PetPaws Emporium!