If you have been struggling to find a way to properly brush your dog's teeth, then you might be feeling frustrated. However, if you know that it is something that you have to do. Dog's are not as prone to getting cavities as humans are but they do have a tendency to get tartar and gingivitis. This means that it is important for you to brush your dog's teeth. Here are some best practices you can use to get the job done.

Train Your Dog Early

It is not that older dogs can't get used to having their teeth cleaned. This is not the case at all. However, if you can start letting your dog get used to the idea of getting their teeth brushed at a younger age then things will become a whole lot easier. Whether your dog is a puppy or grown, one of the major things you should know is that you are never to use your toothpaste to clean your dog's teeth. Your toothpaste is likely to contain fluoride, which is poisonous to dogs. There is toothpaste available that is made for dogs.

Type of Toothbrush to Use

While there are traditional options out there for you to use, you may want to consider a few other options. For example, there are toothbrushes with dual heads. These heads usually come in different sizes, which means that you won't need to reach for a toothbrush with another head when want to clean different areas of your dog's mouth. There are also finger toothbrushes available. All you have to do is push your finger inside the brush and get started with brushing your dog's teeth.

Alternatives to Brushing

If your dog will not allow you to brush their teeth, don't despair, there are still a few options out there. You can buy a toothbrush stick that operates like a chew toy. This product will have indentations on it that look like bristles. You can even squeeze a bit of toothpaste in it, as your dog chews on it toothpaste will get all over their teeth. Another thing you can do is limit the amount of soft foods you give your dog. This is because soft foods tend to stick to the teeth while harder foods won't.

You are now armed with the knowledge of how to keep your dog's teeth clean. If your dog puts up resistance to brushing their teeth, it is important to remain patient and try other options in the meantime. For more information about pet dental care, contact a local veterinarian.