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We can all agree that brushing your dog’s teeth is not something that we constantly think about, up until your little pal’s breath becomes unbearable. Of course, keeping good dental hygiene, especially for your dog, is quite essential. Unfortunately, it can sometimes slip our minds during those busy days.
So, how do you keep your dog’s teeth clean without brushing? Well, there are a couple of alternatives that can help your furry friend maintain a fresh breath throughout.
Top 8 Ways to Keep Your Dog’s Teeth Clean Without Brushing
1. Dental Chews & Treats
Dogs love treats, making this the perfect way to keep your dog’s breath smelling fresh. These chews and treats are generally created to help your dog reduce plaque and tartar through chewing. That allows them to enjoy a delicious treat while, at the same time, cleaning their mouths.
2. Chew Toys for Dental Health
Another alternative to keeping your dog’s teeth clean without brushing is purchasing chew toys for your dog. Most of these toys are made out of rubber or natural fibers that can also help scrape out plaque. Some toys even have ridges and nubs that massage your dog’s gums as they clean their teeth.
3. Raw Bones & Bully Sticks
Raw bones are also an excellent natural choice for your dog’s dental care. Aside from being a natural source of minerals, gnawing on these bones helps remove plaque. Bully sticks last long and can help remove tartar buildup on your pup’s teeth.
4. Dental Water Additives
If your furry friend doesn’t like anything being placed in their mouths, then using dental water additives is the way to go. These additives are simple solutions that can be mixed with water and work by reducing bacteria, freshening your dog’s breath, and breaking down plaque.
5. Dog Dental Wipes
A quick option you can use is dental wipes. All you have to do is wrap the wipe around your finger and rub your dog’s gums and teeth. That will remove the bacteria around their teeth and gums, freshening your dog’s breath.
6. Coconut Oil
Believe it or not, coconut oil is a magic wand when it comes to cleaning, as it is a natural antimicrobial solution. You can add a small amount to your dog’s food or rub it around their teeth with your clean finger or cotton swab.
7. A Healthy Diet
If you truly want your dog’s smile to continue shining bright without that regular brushing sesh, then you have to keep a close eye on their diet. That said, avoid overly processed foods or even sugary treats that generally contribute to plaque buildup. Stick to natural and premium dog-friendly foods.
8. Regular Vet Checkups
Finally, you need to visit your local vet regularly. These visits will help identify dental issues early enough and recommend professional cleaning techniques where necessary. That ensures your dog maintains healthy oral hygiene, reducing the occurrence of bad breath or any of the more serious dental issues.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, brushing your dog’s teeth is, of course, not the only way for your dog to maintain healthy dental hygiene. Take these techniques into consideration and find out what works best for you and your pup. Remember to always take your little furry friend to the vet for checkups, in addition to at-home dental care, to help them maintain their radiant smile!
