3 Ways to Clean Your Dog’s Teeth at Home

Did you know that just like humans, dogs need oral care too? Dogs can experience canine periodontal disease, which is the most common cause of bad breath in dogs. 

In this post, we’ll be sharing what exactly is canine periodontal disease and three easy ways that you can clean your dog’s teeth at home and improve your dog’s dental health!

What is Canine Periodontal Disease?​

Did you know that most dogs experience some amount of dog dental disease by the age of three? Canine periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection that damages the tissue around your dog’s teeth. 

Some common signs of periodontal disease are:

• Bad Breath
• Yellow or Brown Teeth
• Red or Swollen Gums
• Loose Teeth
• Gums that Bleed when Chewing on Toys/Bones

The good thing is that periodontal disease in dogs can be prevented! Below are three easy ways to clean your dog’s teeth at home.

Dog Dental Chew Toys & Bones​

Did you know that many dog chew toys and bones are designed to aid in your dog’s dental health? Next time you’re at your local pet store, look at some of the dog bones and chews. Many have different textures and surfaces which aid in scraping off the plaque and tartar build up on your dog’s teeth! Two well-known dog chew toy brands are Nylabone and Benebone! 

You can also treat your dog to natural chews like Bully Sticks (make sure to use a bully stick holder!) to not only aid in dental health but joint health as well!

Use a Dog Toothbrush with Dog Toothpaste​

You can easily brush your dog’s teeth at home with a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically made for your dog’s teeth! Unlike humans, dogs don’t need their teeth brushed every day and it can take some time for your dog to get used to it. 

The American Kennel Club has a great article about How To Brush Your Dog’s Teeth filled with tons of helpful tips and steps to make sure your pets teeth are clean and healthy!

Important PSA: Never use human toothpaste for your dog. Our toothpaste contains toxic ingredients such as xylitol and fluoride that can cause serious harm to your dog. 

Dog Dental Treats​

You can find tons of dog dental treats at your local pet store or online that are made with special ingredients and textures similar to dog dental bones and chews that aid in cleaning your dog’s teeth and freshening their breath!

In addition to store bought dog dental treats, there are also many healthy fruits and vegetables that can aid your dog’s oral health. A few great options are:

• Carrots: Great low-calorie snack that is high in fiber, beta-carotene and it helps clean your dog’s teeth as they snack on it!
• Frozen berries (blueberries, strawberries and cranberries): These berries are filled with antioxidants, fiber, and strawberries specifically contain an enzyme that can help whiten your dog’s teeth!

Who’s ready to clean their dog’s teeth and help improve their dog’s oral health? We sure are! We hope this article was helpful for all of the current and soon-to-be dog parents out there.

Have any questions? Send us a message on Instagram @CarlsonPetProducts and share this post with a friend to help spread awareness of dog dental health!