May 4, 2008

Dog’s Breath Makes Aged Aunt Faint

by Floella McFee

Bad breath is never a good thing, and many a joke has been made at the expense of Fido’s oral hygiene. Considering their diet, it can be understandable if their breath is not exactly minty fresh. Unfortunately, if Fido’s breath is becoming a major issue, this may be symptomatic of something more serious, and may require action more drastic than giving Fido a peppermint.

A dog will be prone to the same teeth and mouth problems as a human, with the same terrible consequences to their over-all health. Periodontal disease, which is caused by a build up of tartar around the gum line, will lead to infections that can enter the blood stream and go on to affect major organs like the heart and the liver. Just as a human should to keep the teeth clean, so does Fido!

In some respects, the correct diet goes along way in helping preventing the troubles of tartar: the dry, kibble style of food, as opposed to the soft, canned sort, will help prevent the formation of plaque and tartar. As will chewing on a nice, meaty bone. Unfortunately, bone chewing may only really help the back teeth, and be of no real help to the front teeth. Fido may also decide, as would be his wont, to keep said meaty bone some where useful for later, such as under the blankets of his bed. Smaller breeds of dog are not always inclined to chew on something that may be of the same size as themselves in any case. Therefore the owner who cares would resort to paste and brush!

Teeth cleaning should happen 2 to 3 times a week. This procedure might be perceived hazardous and probably traumatic for the both of you. It’s best to get Fido used to the probing of his mouth from a young age. Then he won’t be quite so startled when you approach him with a brush loaded with paste. It is not advisable to use human tooth paste as its foaming will encourage Fido to swallow it, leading to problems in his gut. Fortunately the vet can supply suitably meaty flavours that are Fido-friendly. As for the cleaning implement any tooth brush which is soft should do the trick. Although there are brushes which will fit on your finger, for easy tackling of those hard to reach places. If you’re flush and want to pamper pooch even an electric tooth brush can be used.

About the Author:

Is your dog’s bad breath an absolute killer. Many that ask how to clean my dogs teeth have come to the right website.