HOW TO ACHIEVE HEALTHY AND BRIGHT TEETH?

Did you know that taking care of a dog's teeth is just as important as taking care of your own? According to statistics from the American Animal Hospital Association, almost two-thirds of dog owners neglect their pet's dental hygiene and do not follow the recommended instructions from the veterinarian. Periodontal problems are the most common disease in adult dogs, often as early as three years of age.

It's the same as with humans, if we don't take good care of a dog's teeth, plaque builds up. After a while, it turns into tartar and the problem is there. Tartar causes irritation and can even lead to gingivitis. Bacterial infection then causes tooth loss and with advancing age can be a trigger for problems with the heart, lungs or kidneys. We didn't get off to a very happy start, what do you say? The good news is that all these diseases can be prevented with regular dental care. So how about dog dental hygiene?

DENTAL TREATS

In addition to regular tooth brushing, which we will talk about later, they are the best assistant in dental care dental treats . You have practically no work, and the dog will have a great time in addition to dental hygiene. You can try e.g. Qchefs treats , the main ingredient of which is milk protein. Thanks to the unique composition, bacteria cannot multiply in the dog's mouth, and plaque and tartar do not stand a chance. They also prevent bad breath and remineralize tooth enamel.

What ingredients do they contain? Treats are made from cottage cheese, cold pressed oils and buckwheat or rice. On the contrary, you won't find a trace of cereals, gluten, lactose and sugar there. They are therefore also intended for sensitive digestion and at the same time focus on the various needs of dogs. Notice how your dog handles the treats - does he nibble or chew them more? You can choose from the Qchefs range different types of size and hardness of treats .

HOW TO CLEAN TEETH?

Cleaning the dog's oral cavity should be part of regular care, but not every dog ​​is willing to do it and can stand the necessary time in peace. Here are some tips on how to do it:

• The main thing is for the dog to get used to brushing his teeth and not take it as a necessary evil. Try to turn your cleaning time into a positive and, preferably, routine as quickly as possible . You can start slowly. For the first few attempts, dip your finger in the meat broth and massage your dog's lips for 30 to 60 seconds once or twice a day for several weeks. After he gets used to you touching his mouth, move on to his teeth and gums.

• Wrap your finger in gauze or hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the teeth and brush in small circular motions, lifting the dog's lips if necessary. The side of the tooth that touches the cheek contains the most tartar, so focus on that.

• When you're almost done, brush vertically towards the inside of your mouth to remove any plaque you've loosened.

• For cleaning, you can use a special brush that you put on your finger or even a classic one for people. For smaller dogs, choose children's.

• Always use toothpaste designed for dogs, never for humans!

REGULARITY IS THE BASIS

Regularity is key . Brush your dog's teeth at least two to three times a week. Cleaning once a day is ideal. If you follow a regular regimen, it will be easier for the dog to get used to dental hygiene and maybe even look forward to it. Such toothpaste with a liver flavor is not to be thrown away at all.

WHEN TO VISIT THE VETERINARY?

Don't forget to check your dog's teeth regularly between regular visits to the vet. The following symptoms should worry you:

• Bad breath

• Swollen and/or bleeding gums

• Anorexia

• Yellow and brown tartar on the gum line

• Excessive drooling

• The dog only bites on one side

If you notice any of these warning signs in your dog, make an appointment with your veterinarian.