Friday, March 4, 2011

Why should you brush your dog's teeth

By Jerry Welsh


You kiss your dog - you also allow the pet to kiss you. This would make you wonder why dog owners often neglect the dental care of the pet? Dog owners ensure that the pet is regularly groomed but taking care of the dog's teeth is a task that is often forgotten. We know how dogs love to eat spoiled food, rotting animals and feces. Dogs also have the tendency to lap water from the toilet bowl. Imagine the stench of the dog's mouth after it has feasted on the excrements of other dogs.

Apparently, healthy dogs are pets that eat the right amount of nutritious food. Healthy teeth are important for our furry friends as unlike humans, dentures will not be available to help them in tearing and grinding their food. Dogs have the habit of gobbling their food nevertheless, a toothless dog's eating ability will also be impaired. Dog in the wild survive by hunting prey and the sharp teeth are the dog's most important hunting instrument. Dog nowadays don't have to hunt to eat as bowls of food are regularly provided by the owners. All the same, strong healthy teeth will still be necessary for easy eating.

A dog's teeth must be brushed to ensure oral hygiene. Poor dental hygiene that result to plaque and tartar build up, tooth and gum problems as well as other periodontal diseases can affect the quality of the dog's life. Dogs have been the companion of man for years but the tendency to eat feces, rotting animals and spoiled food is still perplexing. With the dog's unhygienic eating habits it is for certain that dog have lots of germs in their mouth.

The germs in the dog's mouth will cause bad breath, will result to teeth deterioration as well as infection that will cause gum problems. Infections from these dental concerns can worsen and spread throughout the dog's body. An infection resulting from a gum problem can develop into heart ailment and other major medical concerns.

Acclimatizing a dog to teeth brushing is best started when the dog is still a puppy. Specially designed toothbrushes must be used. Make sure to use specially formulated pet tooth paste. Because dogs love these flavored toothpaste for pets, brushing the dog's teeth will be easier. Your pet's teeth need not be brushed everyday but if you have the time and you want a dog with fresh smelling breath then by all means, do so. Teeth prophylaxis performed by the vet will ensure that the dog's teeth is thoroughly cleaned.




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