How to Clean Your Dog's Teeth

Comments: See what you can learn on the go with the new Howcast App for iPhone and iPad: http://bit.ly/11ZmFOu Watch more Dog Care & Grooming 101 videos: http://www.howcast.com/guides/466-Dog-Care-and-Grooming-101 Subscribe to Howcast's YouTube Channel - http://bit.ly/uLaHRS "Doggy breath" isn't just an expression—regular oral hygiene is just as important for dogs as it is for people. Which is why it's never too early—or too late—to start polishing your puppy's pearly whites. Howcast uploads the highest quality how-to videos daily! Be sure to check out our playlists for guides that interest you: http://bit.ly/ytmainplaylists Subscribe to Howcast's other YouTube Channels: Howcast Dance & Entertainment Channel - http://bit.ly/vmB86i Howcast Family Channel - http://bit.ly/16dz9oH Howcast Food & Drink Channel - http://bit.ly/umBoJX Howcast Personal Care & Style Channel - http://bit.ly/vbbNt3 Howcast Sports & Fitness Channel - http://bit.ly/vKjUjm Howcast Tech Channel - http://bit.ly/rx9FwR Howcast Video Games Channel - http://bit.ly/tYKKrk Howcast empowers people with engaging, useful how-to information wherever, whenever they need to know how. Emphasizing high-quality instructional videos, Howcast brings you experts who provide accurate information in easy-to-follow tutorials on everything from makeup, hairstyling, nail art design, and soccer to parkour, skateboarding, dancing, kissing, and much, much more. Step 1: Check teeth & gums At least once a week, sit your dog down to check his teeth and gums. Tip If you have a small dog, you may prefer placing him on a counter or table with a towel under him. Step 2: Feel gums Gently run your fingers along your pooch's gums, checking for swelling, tenderness, and tartar buildup. They should feel firm and have a healthy color. Tip If your dog's gum area seems especially sensitive, or if you notice swelling or bleeding, take the dog to a vet. Step 3: Let pet sniff toothpaste Put a small dab of canine toothpaste on your finger and let your pet sniff it and lick it off. Tip You can substitute baking soda and water, but never use human toothpaste. Step 4: Let dog sniff again Now put some of the toothpaste on the brush and let him sniff it again. Now he should be familiar with the paste and brush and more willing to let you brush his teeth. Step 5: Brush teeth Gently brush the dog's teeth, front and back, for as long as he'll let you. Step 6: Give drink of water Give the dog a drink of water. Step 7: Wash hands Wash your hands when you're all done. Tip If your vet recommends it, have your dog's teeth professionally cleaned. Since this procedure is done under anesthesia, it is more thorough than a home cleaning. Step 8: Reward with a treat Reward him with a treat. It may sound weird, but giving your dog a treat after his teeth-cleaning will make him remember the process more fondly next time! Did You Know? One of the best ways to keep your dog's teeth clean and healthy is to feed him kibbled dry food instead of canned.