my 3 month old shih tzu has very very tiny teeth. Right now, there are only 2 on top and 2 on the bottom. How do I brush his teeth witout hurting his gum?
2007-01-22 15:49:47 · 11 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Dogs
You should get the puppy used to brushing when he is young. If you wait he may not take to it. Brush the teeth gently. Also feed him dry dog food because it keeps the teeth stronger and helps clean them.
This is from http://www.placervillevet.com/dog%20toothbrushing.htm:
How to brush your Dog's Teeth
Step 1 - Select an appropriate time
Find a quiet, convenient time when you and your dog are both relaxed.
Step 2 - Acquaint your dog with the process.
For the first few sessions don't even use a toothbrush. Hold your dog the same as when you are cuddling her. Gently stroke the outside of her cheeks with your finger. After she becomes comfortable with that, place a dab of toothpaste on your finger and let her taste it. We usually suggest starting with C.E.T. poultry flavored toothpaste, because pets like the taste..
Step 3 - Introduce the Toothbrush
Place a small amount of toothpaste on the brush. In a slow circular motion, brush one or two teeth and the adjoining gum line. The purpose of this step is to get your dog accustomed to the feel of the brush.
Step 4 - Begin Brushing
Over the next several days, gradually increase the number of teeth brushed. It is important to eventually brush the rear teeth where plaque and tartar have a greater tendency to accumulate. Go slowly and gently.. Stop brushing when you decide to stop, before your dog begins to fuss. If she learns to dislike the procedure and finds out that more fussing makes you stop quicker, then this brushing business is going to get harder, not easier.
Build up to about 30 seconds per side. Dogs don't get much tartar on the inside surfaces of their teeth, so you only need to worry about the outside surfaces Be sure to brush the big teeth way in back.
Make tooth brushing a pleasurable experience
Proceed slowly and gently. Stop each session while it is still fun and lavishly praise your dog afterwards. She will soon start looking forward to tooth brushing and it will become a pleasant activity for both of you.
2007-01-22 16:01:32 · answer #1 · answered by chleoo78 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Use a child's toothbrush b/c the bristles are soft. It's okay to start now...by the time all the teeth are in your pup will be used to it and not fight ya.
2007-01-23 00:48:30 · answer #2 · answered by bundysmom 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
get a little rubber finger toothbrush ...check the baby department at a local drug store. If they are soft enough for a baby's gums they should work fine on your puppy.
2007-01-23 00:00:28 · answer #3 · answered by kamsmom 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
if you brush his teeth and gums it will strengthen the gums and make his teeth stronger. he will be more healthy
2007-01-22 23:57:47 · answer #4 · answered by unknown 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you could go to the pet shop and buy some raw hide or other chew toys that are specially made to clean their teeth.
2007-01-22 23:59:50 · answer #5 · answered by a.n. 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
just the same you brush any other dogs teeth.
When you floss your gums they bleed- it doesnt hurt too bad
2007-01-22 23:54:12 · answer #6 · answered by Sammy 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I whould suggest not to until his other teeth grow in...L8er!
2007-01-22 23:53:40 · answer #7 · answered by candyshop7555 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
it wont hurt his gums hes ok
2007-01-22 23:53:05 · answer #8 · answered by chiq_gamer 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
wait untill he has all his teeth
2007-01-22 23:54:34 · answer #9 · answered by mimi 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
use a soft brush.
2007-01-23 00:40:05 · answer #10 · answered by Dallas 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋