How to prevent small dogs from having dental calculus

When we welcome our cute little dogs at home, watching their lively and innocent appearance, our hearts are filled with expectations for their healthy growth. However, in the health problems of puppies, the appearance of dental calculus is like a "time bomb", threatening their oral health and even their overall health. How to prevent small dogs from having dental calculus has become an important issue in the hearts of every dog owner.

1、 Understand the causes of dental calculus formation

Before exploring prevention methods, we need to first understand how dental calculus is produced. After a puppy eats, food residue will remain on the surface of its teeth and gum gaps. Bacteria in the mouth quickly target these residues, forming sticky dental plaque. Over time, bacteria in dental plaque interact with minerals in saliva, gradually mineralizing and ultimately turning into hard dental calculus. Imagine that the food crumbs that we didn't notice slowly "spoil" in the puppy's mouth and become the "raw material" for dental calculus, and we will realize the serious consequences that daily negligence may bring.

2、 Reasonable diet to prevent dental calculus

Choose the appropriate dog food

High quality dog food is the foundation of a healthy diet for puppies. The particle size and hardness of dog food are crucial, and appropriate particles can help clean the teeth of small dogs while chewing. Choosing dog food that contains appropriate amounts of minerals and vitamins can help maintain the oral health of puppies. Some dog food also contains special ingredients that can reduce the formation of dental plaque. For example, dog food rich in calcium and phosphorus can help with tooth and bone development; Dog food containing vitamin C and vitamin E can enhance the immunity of puppies and resist oral bacteria. Carefully selecting in front of the dazzling array of dog food shelves is a way to safeguard the health of puppies.

Control snack intake

Dogs all love to eat snacks, but excessive snacks, especially soft and sticky ones, can easily adhere to their teeth and increase the risk of dental calculus formation. Snacks like cheese sticks and jerky meat, although delicious, should be fed in moderation. You can choose some snacks that help clean your teeth, such as dog bite gel. During the biting process, small dogs can rub their teeth, reducing the accumulation of dental plaque and tartar. Watching the little dog happily nibble on healthy snacks not only satisfies their appetite but also maintains oral health, which is what every owner hopes to see.

3、 Daily oral care is crucial

Brushing teeth is of utmost importance

Brushing the teeth of a puppy is the most direct and effective way to prevent dental calculus. Starting from the puppy stage, it is possible to cultivate the habit of brushing teeth in puppies. Choose a toothbrush and toothpaste suitable for puppies, the toothbrush should be soft to avoid damaging the gums; Choose pet specific toothpaste instead of human toothpaste, as certain components in human toothpaste can be harmful to puppies. At the beginning, puppies may resist brushing their teeth. In this case, the owner should be patient and gently massage the puppy's gums and teeth with their fingers to gradually adapt. Then slowly dip your toothbrush into toothpaste and gently brush the surface of your teeth and the gaps between your gums, moving gently and slowly. Persisting in brushing teeth every day can effectively reduce the formation of dental plaque and tartar.

Oral cleaning supplies assistance

In addition to brushing teeth, you can also use some oral cleaning products, such as mouthwash, oral spray, etc. Adding an appropriate amount of mouthwash to a puppy's drinking water can inhibit the growth of oral bacteria; Regularly spray the dog with oral spray to freshen the breath and reduce odor. These cleaning products are like a gentle 'big cleaning' for the puppy's mouth, keeping it in a healthy state at all times.

4、 Increase chewing exercise

Puppies have a natural tendency to bite, so take advantage of this and provide them with suitable chew toys. For example, rubber toys, nylon bones, etc., these toys not only satisfy the puppy's biting desire, but also massage the gums, clean the surface of teeth, and reduce food residue during chewing. Watching the little dog gnaw on the toy intently, one can tell that they are doing their part to prevent dental calculus. Regularly replace chewing toys, keep them clean and fresh, and keep the puppy enthusiastic about chewing.

5、 Regular inspections are essential

Every once in a while, take the puppy to the pet hospital for an oral examination. Veterinarians can use professional tools and experience to identify potential problems in a puppy's mouth, such as early tartar and gingivitis. By identifying problems in a timely manner, timely treatment measures can be taken to prevent the problem from worsening. Regular check ups are like providing a "safety net" for a puppy's oral health, making the owner feel more at ease. At the same time, seek advice from veterinarians on professional knowledge of oral care, learn more scientific prevention methods, and safeguard the oral health of puppies.

Dogs are the source of happiness in our lives, providing us with unconditional love and companionship. Preventing small dogs from developing dental calculus is our responsibility as owners. From diet to daily care, from chewing exercise to regular check ups, every aspect is infused with our love for our little dog. Let's take good care of the oral health of our little dogs, allowing them to bloom with bright smiles and accompany us through more wonderful times. Because their health is our greatest happiness.