How To Clean Your Dog’s Teeth Without Brushing: Brushless Dental Care
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Caring for your pup’s dental health is essential as a dog owner. But many stubborn dogs just don’t want their teeth brushed. They may bite or read the signs and not come near you when it’s time.
But the result is that your dog’s teeth don’t get the care they need. Fortunately, there are alternatives for dog teeth cleaning which don’t involve brushing.
In this article, we cover the best dental care methods that don’t involve brushing that you can use to maintain your dog’s oral health easily.
Dental Care for Dogs: How Important Is It?
So, how important is your dog’s oral health? The short answer: very. If you neglect your dog’s oral health, this can lead to dog tartar building up on their gum line, pushing gums away from the roots of the teeth and exposing the enamel-free areas.
This causes sensitivity, discomfort, and pain for your furry friend. Not to mention the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and other dental problems.
Therefore, cleaning their teeth regularly is essential to avoid plaque build-up.
Brushing Dog Teeth: The Challenges
But, of course, it is difficult for some pet owners to brush their dog’s teeth. Dogs can be pretty wiley and even read the signs when you’re about to break out the toothbrush.
That’s why alternative methods are developed to keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy. One should note that these methods listed are alternatives to brushing and additions if your dog will allow you to brush his teeth.
Brushless Dental Care Techniques
Dental Chews & Treats
Your dog likely loves to eat, so the first and most readily accessible for your dog is dental chews. These are designed with firm, porous textures to reach teeth that are far back and are hard to get with the brush. This means that your dog will clean their teeth by digging into this treat without your help.
Dental Wipes & Pads
Dental wipes are finger gloves you wear to clean your dog’s teeth by hand. Or by finger, as the case is. They often come in multipacks, and there are also many brands.
To discover the best one for your dog’s mouth, study the label thoroughly and consult your vet if need be. If your dog has certain allergies or sensitivities, it’s best to discover them beforehand and get the best product for the job.
Then it’s a simple case of learning how to use the wipes/or pads effectively for teeth cleaning.
Water Additives & Oral Rinses
Then, you can buy water additives and oral rinses that mix with your dog’s water. They are a form of dog mouthwash and help with bad breath, tooth decay, and reduce the risk of periodontal disease.
Dental Gels & Sprays
To remove the need for periodontal check-ups, use dental gels and sprays to improve your dog’s health by balancing their oral chemistry.
Feeding Raw Bones or Chews
In the past, canines in the wild cleaned their teeth by chewing on the raw bones of their fallen prey. Ergo, you can do the same today by getting them a raw bone a few times a week.
If you feed them raw bones, avoid dense bones, and if you get the right size for your dog, you will avoid the risk of the issues. As a dog owner, you should also supervise the bone chewing time.
Professional Dental Cleanings
It’s important to schedule professional dental cleanings when required. If your dog has symptoms such as bleeding gums, excessive drooling, or chewing on one side of the mouth, this is a sign that you need professional veterinary services.
But it’s a good idea to keep this in check by taking them regularly anyhow, as much as your furry friend hates it.
The Bottom (Jaw) Line
Staying on top of your pooch’s oral health is a fundamental action, just as much as walking and regular feedings. Even if the process is challenging, it’s essential to find a way.
If you can’t train your dog to sit still and accept the toothbrushing process, then it’s vital to use a number of the alternative dental care techniques available, whether you use dental chews, wipes, water additives, gels or raw bones and chews, this will go a long way to keep your dog’s teeth clean. You will prevent dental issues and minimize your dog’s bad breath.
On top of this, it’s important to schedule regular veterinary check-ups and professional dental cleanings, as these are crucial for optimal oral health. Make sure that you consult with your veterinarian to determine the best brushless dental care routine for your dog’s unique needs.
For more information, make sure to check out our related posts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I completely replace brushing with brushless dental care methods?
Ideally, it’s a shorthand option until you can brush your dog’s teeth, and then, in addition to it.
How often should I use dental wipes or pads?
Once or twice a day is optimal – after meal times is peak time for it.
Are dental chews and treats safe for all dogs?
It depends on the dog. Some dogs (aggressive chewers) will swallow them whole, affecting the stomach.
How do water additives work in cleaning a dog’s teeth?
They have enzymatic ingredients that break tartar down. Adding it to your dog’s drinking bowl every day is good for their oral health.
Can I use human oral rinses or gels on my dog’s teeth?
No, human toothpaste and oral rinses can be toxic to dogs.
What precautions should I take when feeding raw bones or chews?
Ensure the bone isn’t too hard for your dog’s teeth or that your dog won’t swallow large pieces whole.
Is it necessary to schedule regular professional dental cleanings for my dog?
Yes, getting your dog’s teeth professionally cleaned at least once a year is optimal.
Sara is an experienced veterinarian with a history of working in Veterinary Medicine, Client Education, Dogs, Pet Care, and Surgery. She is a strong healthcare services professional with a graduate degree from St. George's University. You can connect with her on LinkedIn.
