If you were to smell your dog’s breath right now, it’s a safe bet that it’s not exactly like a field of daisies. Your dog’s breath shouldn’t send you running, though—it’s important to keep up with dental care, both for good oral health and to freshen the breath! Below, your McHenry, IL vet tells you how to keep Fido’s breath fresh:
Supply Fresh Water
The first step toward fresh breath is to supply a bowl of clean water for your dog to drink from at all times. Fresh water not only keeps your pooch well-hydrated, it helps to flush out the mouth and get rid of grime, leftover food particles, bacteria, plaque, and other substances that might cause bad breath odors.
Brush the Teeth
If you didn’t brush your teeth, your breath probably wouldn’t smell wonderful. The same is true for your dog! By brushing your dog’s teeth on a regular basis with a canine-formulated toothpaste, you’ll keep the teeth and gums healthy and make sure that Fido’s breath stays fresh. Start by getting your dog used to the brushing sensation; run a finger over your dog’s teeth and gums before introducing the paste. When your dog is ready, you’ll be able to work your way around the whole mouth with the brush. Consult your veterinarian if you need help getting started.
Play With Chew Toys
Chew toys provide your pooch with countless hours of fun. Did you know that playing with chew toys is also beneficial for dental health? That’s because chew toys give your dog’s teeth and gums a healthy workout, and they help scrape away much of the loose plaque particles lining your dog’s teeth and gum line. It’s a great way to keep your dog’s teeth clean—and the breath fresh—in between brushing sessions.
Try Dental Sticks or Chews
Talk to your veterinarian about dental sticks or chews that might help to freshen your dog’s breath and keep the teeth plaque-free. There are plenty of great products out there!
Schedule Professional Cleanings
There’s just no substitute for professional cleanings at your veterinarian’s office. The veterinary dental procedure, called a dental prophylaxis, is the best way to have your dog’s mouth cleaned from top to bottom. It’s sure to keep your dog’s breath as fresh as possible!
Ready to set up your dog’s dental cleaning? We’re here to help. Call your McHenry, IL vet clinic.