Brushing Your Pet’s Teeth

First of all, this should be fun for you and your pet. Be upbeat and take things slowly. Do not overly restrain your pet. Keep sessions short and positive. Be sure to praise her throughout the process. Give yourself a pat on the back, too! You are doing a great thing for your pet!

1. First, have your pet get used to you putting things in her mouth. Dip your finger in beef bouillon. Call your pet with a voice that means “treat” and let her lick the liquid off your finger. Then rub your soaked finger gently over her gums and teeth. After a few sessions, your pet should actually look forward to this and you can move on.

2. Now, place a gauze around your finger. (You can again dip it in the bouillon.) Gently rub the teeth in a circular motion with your gauzed finger. Repeat this for the number of sessions it takes to feel comfortable with this procedure. Remember to praise her and keep an upbeat attitude.

3. After your pet is used to having the flavored gauze in her mouth, you are ready to start with a toothbrush, dental sponge, or pad. We need to get her used to the consistency of these items, especially the bristles on a brush. So, let her lick something tasty off of the brush or pad so she gets used to the texture.

4. Once your pet is used to the cleaning item you are going to use, we can add the toothpaste. Pet toothpastes either have a poultry, malt, or other flavor so they will like the taste. Get your pet used to the flavor and consistency of the toothpaste. Let her lick some off your finger and then apply some to your pet’s gumline with your finger. Praise your pet.

5. Now your pet is used to the toothbrush and toothpaste and you are ready to start brushing. Talk to her in a happy voice during the process and praise her at the end. At first, you may just want to brush one or both upper canine teeth (the large ones in the front of the mouth). These are the easiest teeth for you to get at and will give you some easier practice. As before, when your pet accepts having several teeth brushed, slowly increase the number of teeth you are brushing. Again, by making it appear to be a game, you both will have fun doing it.