How to Brush a Dog's Teeth Naturally

Does your dog have bad breath, tartar buildup, and generally yucky teeth? There are several ways to naturally addresses oral hygiene for your dog, including letting him chew on raw bones or antlers and feeding him a species-appropriate diet with lots of protein and low carbohydrates.

Brushing your dog's teeth may also be necessary to keep his teeth healthy. If you want to brush your dog's teeth naturally you can use natural products that will keep your dog's teeth spick and span. There are several methods and homemade products that you can use for natural teeth brushing that are effective. If your dog has hard tartar buildup, however, you will need to consider taking your dog to a veterinarian to have it removed, then you can maintain your dog's smile with natural teeth brushing methods!

If your dog has never had his teeth brushed before you may need to take steps to adapt him to having his teeth brushed. He may not like you poking at his already inflamed gums and teeth with a strange stick! Start slow; get your dog used to having his teeth brushed by using a gauze-wrapped finger and massaging teeth and gums. Put something that tastes good to your dog, like a flavored natural toothpaste, or organic coconut oil on the gauze. Keep teeth brushing sessions short until your dog gets used to having your finger in his mouth and his teeth handled. Once your dog is comfortable with the process, switch to a doggy toothbrush specifically designed for dogs available from veterinarians or at pet stores, or use a soft child's toothbrush.

• Be cautious when using natural products, as many plant extracts can be toxic to dogs in small or large amounts. Make sure your dog does not ingest natural toothpastes. Wipe off excess.
  
• When using a toothbrush, be careful not to poke your dog's gums or soft palate with the brush. If your dog is not familiar with brushes, start with a cloth-wrapped finger until he is accustomed to teeth brushing.
  
• Make sure to brush gums and cheek flaps as well as teeth to remove bacteria.
  
• Getting inside of your dog's teeth surfaces can be challenging, use patience and work towards gradually getting your dog to allow you access to all his teeth.
  

Veterinary dental work is expensive and often requires anesthesia to remove built-up tartar.  By brushing your dog's teeth at home with natural products you can address your dog's oral hygiene in a natural and inexpensive way and avoid costly and invasive dental procedures. Use toothbrushes or cloths, and natural commercial products or homemade natural products to clean your dog's teeth, reducing tartar buildup and keeping his breath fresh. Your dog will be much healthier if dental health is addressed, as bacteria and poor dental health can impact your dog's overall health.  Natural teeth brushing is a simple fix to avoid unpleasant and costly health problems down the road.