February is Pet Dental Month, making it a great time to focus on your furry friend’s oral health! However, oral care for pets doesn’t stop here—with the right dental care products and routine, you can keep your curious canines’ teeth healthy and their breath fresh throughout the year.
At-Home Dental Care Solutions
Dental Chews: Tasty Treats for Healthier Teeth
Dental chews are an excellent way to maintain oral health! These specialized treats have been a staple item in pet dental care for decades.
Dental chews are usually a variation of a soft bone shape that allows the teeth to sink into the chew while scraping some of the tooth debris off the teeth as the dog consumes the chew.
Popular dental chew options include:
These dental treats not only help clean your pet’s teeth but can also freshen their breath, making cuddle time more enjoyable for everyone!
Pet Toothbrushes: The Gold Standard in Oral Care
Nothing beats a good old toothbrush! Ideally, we should all start our puppies with a good toothbrushing routine, but it’s never too late. Get your pup used to oral care by training with frequent touch and plenty of rewards—that way, you’ll teach your dog that fingers and toothbrushes are friends and not chew toys.
Try these toothbrushing products:
- TropiClean Tooth Gel and Brush
- Fresh Breath Finger Brushes
- Nutri Vet Dental Hygiene Kit
- Nylabone Cat Dental Care Kit
Many veterinarians recommend daily brushing as the most effective way to prevent plaque buildup and maintain excellent oral health. With patience and positive reinforcement, most dogs can learn to tolerate or even enjoy their daily brushing routine.
Chew Toys: Natural Dental Maintenance
Chew toys are one of the easiest ways to improve the oral health of our canine companions, and there are a variety of toys that you can give to them. Chewing is an instinct that both benefits your pup’s teeth and has a calming effect on the nervous system.
Effective dental chew toys include:
Always be sure to monitor your furry friend when they have a chew toy. Even the most well-constructed toy can break down and cause a choking hazard. Many pet owners find that offering a rotation of different chew toys helps maintain their dog’s interest while providing varied cleaning action for different parts of the mouth.
Preventative Vet Care: Professional Oversight
Getting your pup’s chompers checked out during their regular vet visit is a must. Catching oral infections and decay before they become a bigger problem can prevent much pain for your pup and your wallet. Professional cleanings may be recommended by your veterinarian based on your dog’s individual needs. These thorough cleanings can address issues that at-home care can’t reach, ensuring complete oral health for your beloved pet.
Shop Pet Dental Care Tools at Benson’s Pet Center
Proper dental care is essential for your pet’s overall well-being. By incorporating these activities into your routine, you’ll help prevent painful dental issues and keep your furry companion happy and healthy.
Find all your pet dental care needs at Benson’s Pet Center! Stop into one of our eight locations or visit our online store to see our full selection of dental care products and tools to keep your dog’s smile bright and healthy.