Dog toothpaste, also known as dental paste or dental cleaner, is an important part of dog dental hygiehttp://www.onfeetnation.com/profiles/blogs/dog-toothpaste-the-secret-of-how-to-select-the-right-dog-1/edit#ne. Dogs can suffer from similar dental problems as humans, including tartar and gum disease. You can help prevent those issues by taking care of the Dog Toothpaste. One basic thing you can do is brush your dogs' teeth!

There are several new products on the market that help dog owners care for their dog's teeth. Products include various types of "toothpaste", various styles of toothbrushes, and multiple products that tout their ability to minimize tartar. There are several brands and types of dog toothpaste products to choose from. Here are some tips to help you choose the right dog toothpaste.

Features to Consider in Dog Toothpaste

Digestible
Size of container (you may want to try a sample size first)
Ingredients
Palatability
Flavor
Presentation: paste, liquid, gel, pads, spray, rinse, sponges

Desirable Features in Dog Toothpaste

Safe
Easy to Use
Pet Likes Taste
Flavored
Ideal Choice for Dog Toothpaste

The ideal choice for dog toothpaste is a product that your dog likes and is easy to use. For some dogs, a mint or a beef or chicken flavored toothpaste works very well. You may need to experiment with what works best for the dog. Some of the gels or pastes that include baking soda and grapefruit and citrus flavors are not well tolerated in many dogs. Start with a small sample size if possible and make sure your dog likes it.

Tips for Using Dog Toothpaste

Be careful - don't get bit when trying to brush the dog's teeth. Start gradually and try to make it fun for your dog.

Start by letting your dog smell the toothpaste and when he licks at it - praise him. Praise good behavior.
Treat the entire experience like a fun "thing" for the dog.
Don't traumatize your dog by holding him down and forcing his mouth open to brush his teeth. Keep the experience positive and both of you will be a lot happier.
Try to use non-alcohol ingredients in dog toothpaste, as they are generally more palatable to most dogs.
Keep dog toothpaste products out of the reach of children.
See our tips on right brush!

When you first begin to brush your dog's teeth, you may be faced with a little resistance. This is typical. The best thing to do is to allow the dog to become familiar with the toothbrush. Like the dog sniff it, lick it, and really get used to it. Next, allow your dog to taste the dog toothpaste by applying a little to his or her teeth using your finger. Start slow when the toothbrush is introduced and you will be fine.

Noticing Problems

Even if you brush your dog's teeth on a regular basis, you want to make sure that you are keeping an eye out for any dental problems that may occur. Symptoms of dental problems would be bloody saliva, excessive drooling, broken teeth, inflamed gums, and tartar build-up. The main cause of these symptoms would be that of periodontitis or gingivitis.

Prevention Is Key

The best thing you can do is to make sure that you have your dog in a good hygiene regimen. Make sure that you are brushing your dog's teeth at least a couple of times a week. The faster you move and the calmer you are, the easier your dog will feel about the whole thing. Most importantly, you want to make sure that you are using circular motions and that you are not forgetting about the gums. Dog brushes and dog toothpaste can be purchased from your vet, in pet shops or in department stores that carry dog supplies and food.

You also want to make sure that you are giving your dog a bone, treat, or rawhide that is known for helping with dental care. The more you do for your pet the happier and healthier he will be. You also will be able to avoid unnecessary vet bills when you make sure that your dog's dental health is as good as it should be. Even if you have neglected to brush your dog's teeth until now, there is no better time to start than now. Begin a teeth and gum brushing routine. Your dog may fight with you a little bit about it at first but it will become routine soon enough and you will have no problem getting your pet's teeth nice and clean.