He turns away and won't open his mouth. He doesn't chew on the greenies or anything. We tried, but he won't let us clean his mouth in anyway and yelps. I let him taste the toothpaste and he likes it, but other than that, no advancement. What can I do?
2007-10-16 09:19:51 · 16 answers · asked by jacksum 2 in Pets ➔ Dogs
First, check his mouth for any sores or injuries. The yelping is an indication that he has pain.
I have the same problem with one of my dogs. The main purpose is to get the gunk off of their teeth and stimulate the gums. My dog will not let me put anything in her mouth except my fingers. So, I get a Kleenex or damp wash cloth and wipe her teeth down that way.
My other dog has sensitive teeth and gums and I found that the bristles are too stiff, so I bought a toothbrush intended for babies. I believe they call it "baby's First Toothbrush" and the bristles are very soft.
If he still will not let you clean his teeth, you may have to take him to your vet and have them professionally cleaned. I have to do that every couple of years in spite of brushing.
2007-10-16 09:29:00 · answer #1 · answered by Pom♥Mom Spay and Neuter 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
You are using the right kind of toothpaste..that's a plus.Never use human toothpaste.It will make him sick.
Try the kind of brush that slips over your finger instead of the regular type brush. That's what I use.Start with just lifting the lip on the side and brush, you can get all the way to the gum and maybe when he sees its not going to hurt he will be more co-operative.To the responder who said it is not natural to brush their teeth,guess you have never had a quote from a vet to clean their teeth.The vet has to put them under to do it you know...not cheap.
2007-10-16 16:41:58 · answer #2 · answered by LifeHappens 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You should first desensitize your dog to the toothbrush, so he isn't afraid of it. To do this, you must be patient & consistent with your training.
First, have your dog lay down in a comfortable space, and simply hold the toothbrush to its mouth. Do this several times a day for a few days until he is comfortable with the toothbrush touching him.
Next, you should do the same as before, but this time touch the toothbrush to his teeth, doing this several times a day for a few days until he is comfortable.
Your next step is actually brushing his teeth, but DO NOT rush the process. If you feel your dog is behaving completely out of control, you might consult your vet or groomer for more specific advice. Good luck!
2007-10-16 16:25:19 · answer #3 · answered by Lisa 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
my dog never like less us brush her teeth either. By the way we tried to brush her teeth with a human brush and toothpaste. It didn't work too well, but we just brought treat that would help with her bad breath. We checked with the vet and we learned that as long as she chewed bones and her teeth were not bleeding a lot that it was ok to not brush her teeth. i you want to keep trying try to reinforce the idea with a treat or a walk after holding you dog gently and brushing his teeth.
2007-10-16 16:36:08 · answer #4 · answered by bednobsbs 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Perhaps his gums are sensitive or he has an underlying condition so a vet visit is needed to rule out any of those diseases that can be painful and cause serious health problems. Then you will need to introduce the brush slowly..maybe try a small finger brush.
2007-10-16 16:51:44 · answer #5 · answered by Rexydoberman 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Try using a finger tip toothbrush, as you have more control, and why not try a cinnamon toothpaste....if you ate meaty things all day, would YOU want to brush with a meaty flavoured paste?!
2007-10-16 16:36:02 · answer #6 · answered by Aye. Right! 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Hey! I would take him to your local pet shop and have them clean his teeth. Ask if you can sit in while the cleaning takes place. You can see the techniques they use. I had the same problem with my dog, and I watched a pro do it. Now he loves it, in fact he will sit at my feet everyday waiting for his brushing. It takes patience. Good Luck!!
2007-10-16 16:29:09 · answer #7 · answered by liz g 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I get Logic oral hygiene gel from the vet, you just put it on your finger and rub it on your dogs teeth and gums. No need for a toothbrush.
2007-10-16 16:31:25 · answer #8 · answered by millypeed my choccie Lab 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Your dog must not like it and it might be such a good idea incase he snaps at you-why not try a dental chew-he gets something he likes and it cleans his teeth for him
2007-10-16 16:29:00 · answer #9 · answered by Kaykay123 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
All my dogs have always had pearl whites. I never brushed their teeth once. Except regular dental "clean up" of course./vet/
A good size raw soup bone is the best toothbrush.
2007-10-16 16:25:59 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋