Credits: Social Media
Vet’s 4 alternatives for your pup’s stinky breath if brushing their teeth isn’t an option
No matter how much we love to cuddle and kiss our pets, stinky breath can be hard to ignore. And if your pup hates getting its teeth brushed, it’s high time you considered easier options.
A dog‘s dental hygiene is often overlooked, although it determines their overall health. Even the most obedient pets can give you a hard time when they have to get their teeth cleaned.
Vet shares 4 alternatives for brushing your dog’s teeth
As well as preventing a stinky breath and keeping your dog’s teeth healthy, dental care is also important because most parents love to kiss them on the mouth. Undeniably it’s hard to resist, but a vet told The Focus that it isn’t a safe practice.
When it comes to getting their teeth brushed, however, most dogs dread it more than bath time. So, licensed veterinarian Dr. Adam Christman recommends four alternatives that are easy and safe for your pooch’s oral health.
1. Dental Wipes – The finger mitts are easy to use on your pet and the vet recommends using them to brush the outsides of their teeth.
Not only do they clean the surface of the teeth, but are also effective in making their breath smell fresh.
2. Yummy Combs – If your dog wouldn’t let you anywhere near their teeth, Yummy Combs is a much easier option.
“These are digestible treats with a 360 technology,” says Dr. Adam. He also advises checking the size of the treat as some dogs have tendency to gulp them whole.
According to Yummy Combs’ official website, the product is a science-backed dental treat that “safely removes hardened tartar.”
3. Dental prebiotic – If you’re looking for a much more convenient solution for your pup’s stinky breath, try a dental probiotic.
The vet suggests adding a tiny amount of the powder into fresh water in your pup’s bowl for cleaner teeth.
4. Corn-shaped squeak dog toothbrush – Perhaps this is the most fun your dog can have while getting their teeth cleaned. A corn-shaped squeak dog toothbrush and other similar toys help massage your dog’s gum.
You can spread a tiny amount of toothpaste over the toy for better cleaning, especially for a senior dog.
Why pet dental care is important
As the American Veterinary Medical Association notes, dental health problems can cause or be a cause of other issues in your dog. It’s recommended to have your dog’s teeth examined by a vet at least once a year.
Unlike humans who mostly suffer from cavities, oral problems in dogs can include broken teeth or roots, periodontal disease, infected teeth, cysts, or tumors in the mouth among others.
“Periodontal disease is the most common dental condition”, notes the website, and it can occur in dogs and cats by the time they turn 3 years old.
Spotting and treating the condition early on will stop it from worsening as they age and also reduce pain or prevent health problems associated with it, such as kidney, liver, and heart muscle changes.
If none of the above methods works for your dog with dental issues, consult a veterinarian to get it treated professionally.
