Wednesday, November 2, 2011

A Healthy Puppy Needs Healthy Teeth

By Dirk Gruenberg


Just like human babes, puppies do not have teeth when they are born. However, within the first twelve years of their life, their first set of sharp primary teeth comes out.

In order to ensure a healthy set of teeth for your puppy, your vet should always have a look at them, too, when you bring your dog in for vaccinations. This is of great importance so that you know for sure that the teeth are coming out right.

After the primary teeth, your puppy will eventually have his adult teeth come out. This usually occurs during the fourth month - and by the seventh month they will all be in place.

But of course your puppy will not keep his primary teeth for too long. During month four, his adult teeth start coming out and within three more months the full set is complete.

In addition to the regular check-ups, you should also make sure to brush your puppy's teeth regularly. This should be done from the third month onwards. But never ever use human tooth paste, because it would make your dog sick; use puppy toothpaste instead.

Brushing your puppy's teeth might feel awkward at first, and you might end up wondering how effective it really is. Do not worry about that at this point, right now it is just important to get your pup used to the process.

Using an extra soft brush would be nice of you in the beginning. Then apply some toothpaste, even let your dog taste it first, and then gently brush his teeth. Just like with kids, use small slow motions. And give him a treat afterwards.

Do not be surprised if your pup seems unhappy about the teeth brushing procedure at some point during the third and fifth month. If this happens, simply stop for a little while.

Why does this often happen? Well, when your puppy's adult teeth start coming through, it makes his gums very painful. The teeth brushing could then amplify the pain. SO just sit back and wait until the teeth are all out, and then start up again.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment