Dog’s Breath Makes Aged Aunt Faint

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As Fido dutifully leaps up upon Aunty Mavis and slobbers all over her, you might notice that Aunt Mavis begins to turn an interesting shade of puce. She may begin to waft her hand in front of her face as Fido pants energetically at her nose. What all this may indicate is that Fido may issues with his oral hygiene.

A dog will be prone to the same teeth and mouth problems as a human, with the same terrible consequences to their over-all health. Periodontal disease, which is caused by a build up of tartar around the gum line, will lead to infections that can enter the blood stream and go on to affect major organs like the heart and the liver. Just as a human should to keep the teeth clean, so does Fido!

In some respects, the correct diet goes along way in helping preventing the troubles of tartar: the dry, kibble style of food, as opposed to the soft, canned sort, will help prevent the formation of plaque and tartar. As will chewing on a nice, meaty bone. Unfortunately, bone chewing may only really help the back teeth, and be of no real help to the front teeth. Fido may also decide, as would be his wont, to keep said meaty bone some where useful for later, such as under the blankets of his bed. Smaller breeds of dog are not always inclined to chew on something that may be of the same size as themselves in any case. Therefore the owner who cares would resort to paste and brush!

It is recommended that Fido should have this done at least 2 to 3 times a week, and as with all things to do with dogs, the early that the regime is started in Fido’s life the easier it will be: dogs can be sensitive about people poking about in their mouths. However, do not be tempted to charge in there with the tooth paste for human use. The foam can be injurious to Fido if swallowed, which he will do. Vets have special concoctions that are suitably tempting for doggie palates and are mercifully foam free. As for the brush it self, there are specific implements that can fit on the finger, but generally any soft tooth brush will do the job. And remember, plenty of treats and praise at the end. You can also pat Fido for being a good boy!