I’ve Never Brushed My Dog’s Teeth – Now What?

We’ve all been there – life gets busy, and before you know it, you realize you’ve never brushed your dog’s teeth. Maybe you didn’t even know it was necessary, or perhaps your pup gives you the look of utter betrayal anytime you go near their mouth. Either way, if you’re just now thinking about your dog’s dental health, don’t worry! It’s never too late to start. Let’s dive into why brushing is important, what happens when you don’t, and how to make up for lost time.

Why Brushing Your Dog’s Teeth Matters

Just like humans, dogs accumulate plaque and tartar on their teeth. Without regular brushing, this buildup can lead to:

• Bad breath (a.k.a. doggy breath on steroids)
• Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontal disease)
• Tooth decay (ouch!)
• Painful infections that could spread to major organs

Neglecting dental care can cause serious health issues, but the good news is you can still take action to improve your dog’s oral hygiene.

What Happens When You Don’t Brush Your Dog’s Teeth?

If your dog has never had their teeth brushed, chances are there’s some tartar buildup already. Signs of dental trouble include:

• Persistent bad breath (if your pup’s kisses make you gag, it’s time for a change!)
• Yellow or brown tartar buildup along the gumline
• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Loose or missing teeth (yikes!)
• Pawing at their mouth or difficulty eating

If you notice any of these symptoms, a trip to the vet for a professional dental cleaning may be the best place to start.

How to Start Brushing – Even If Your Dog Hates It

Getting a dog to accept toothbrushing can be tricky, especially if they’ve never had it done before. Follow these steps to ease them into it:

1. Start Slow – Don’t jump straight to brushing. First, get your dog comfortable with having their mouth touched by gently lifting their lips and rubbing their gums with your finger.
2. Use Dog-Safe Enzymatic Toothpaste – Never use human toothpaste (it contains xylitol, which is toxic to dogs). Pick a dog-friendly flavor like bacon-cheese or banana Mint
3. Choose the Right Brush – A dog toothbrush such as the BrushMate can help you reach all their teeth comfortably.
4. Make It a Positive Experience – Give lots of praise, treats, and encouragement. You want your dog to see this as a fun bonding time rather than a horror movie.
5. Be Consistent – Aim to brush at least 3-4 times a week. Daily is ideal, but any brushing is better than none!

What If My Dog Refuses Toothbrushing?

Some dogs are just not having it, no matter how much peanut butter or flavored toothpaste you offer. If brushing isn’t working out, don’t give up! There are other ways to keep their teeth clean:

• Dental chews and toys – These help scrape off plaque while keeping your pup entertained.
• BiteBlock – The BiteBlock can help you keep your dog’s mouth opened while protecting your fingers.
• Water additives – Specially formulated solutions can be added to your dog’s water to fight bacteria.
• Dental wipes – If your dog won’t tolerate a toothbrush, wipes are a great alternative.
• Vet-approved dental diets – Some dog foods are designed to promote better dental health.

When to See the Vet

If your dog’s teeth have never been brushed, it’s a good idea to schedule a vet visit for a professional dental checkup. The vet can assess your dog’s oral health and determine whether a professional cleaning is necessary.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never brushed your dog’s teeth, don’t feel guilty – you’re not alone! The important thing is that you’re taking steps now to improve their dental health. With patience, the right tools, and a little bribery (hello, treats!), your dog can have a healthier mouth and fresher breath in no time.