Chewing on safe, bendable chew toys that your dog can bite and chomp on can help maintain their teeth and gum health, as the action helps remove plaque, while also helping keep bad breath at bay. To your pup, this is just a new toy added to their playtime mix, and they’ll be blissfully unaware that they’re improving their dental health. If you have an older dog or a dog with pre-existing dental issues, please consult a professional before introducing hard toys to help prevent potential injuries.
Eliminating the introduction of bacteria into your dog’s mouth can also help keep things fresh and clean, and one way to do this is by making changes in an area your pup frequently visits—their water bowl. A study found that a dog’s water bowl takes third place as the most contaminated item in a home, particularly when made from a ceramic or plastic material. Regularly changing out the water in your pup’s bowl (at least once a day) can help keep the environment sanitary and remove any buildup that forms.
While using proper teeth brushing tools is important and should be used regularly, you may find that it’s also helpful and more convenient to approach your dog’s dental health more spontaneously, and that’s where washcloths can come in handy. Wipe down your dog’s teeth using a clean, warm washcloth, especially after eating. This can help remove excess food, bacteria, dead cells, and extra saliva. Keep some washcloths on hand to make this process feel more natural and part of your pup’s meal routine.
Making small changes to what your dog eats can positively impact their dental health. Once you receive the all-clear from your vet, introduce dog-safe fruits and vegetables like carrots, apples, celery, and other snacks that provide a crunch to help remove and prevent tartar and keep their breath fresh. The nutrients and antioxidants within these healthy options can also help strengthen your pup’s teeth and gums.
