The Doggy Dentist: 3 Ways to Keep Fido Healthy When It’s Tough to Brush

Consider this:  Even though good dental care is critical to your pet’s overall health, more than 80% of dogs have oral disease by age 3.

But according to veterinarian Dr. Jan Bellows — who also serves as president of the American Veterinary Dental College — it doesn’t have to be this way.

Although daily brushing of a dog’s teeth is the gold standard for all dog owners, when that isn’t practical or possible, there are great alternatives to try when your furry friend is crouched down, pushing back, and protesting with all of his might:

• OPTION #1:  USE A LONG Q-TIP
Dip the Q-tip in chicken or beef broth, or doggie-formulated toothpaste, to improve the taste appeal, but don’t use human toothpaste because its detergent isn’t good for dogs.

• OPTION #2:  TRY A DENTAL WIPE
Dental wipes help clean teeth and gums and are easier to use with dogs who actively resist having a toothbrush or any object inserted in their mouths.

• OPTION #3:  MILK-BONE BRUSHING CHEWS
Turn the act of oral care into a fun and eagerly awaited moment of bonding.  Milk-Bone Brushing Chews taste like a treat and clean like a toothbrush (with the unique twist and nub design mimicking the physics of a human brushing back and forth).  In fact, when fed daily, Milk-Bone Brushing Chews are as effective as brushing twice a week, based on the reduction of tartar build-up and bad breath.

According to Dr. Bellows, it’s also critical to avoid plastic bones, ice cubes, antlers, and bully sticks — all of which can cause painful tooth fractures.