Teeth Brushing our Doodles

[Liza, Halle and Finn]

Is it necessary to brush the teeth of our doods? Especially, as puppies? I get the submission part of it, but as a necessity for their everyday living, that's what I wonder about. And if it is necessary, at what age should we start, and how often? I hear differing opinions, so I would like to hear everyone's thoughts on the subject.

[Tamara & Giada]

I do every so often, but works best for us is having them chew on a good bone. Summer never liked to chew, and her teeth were horrible.........................until I found these one bones. She loves them and her teeth are getting so clean now:) I also use a dental spray on their teeth every time I groom them (2xweek).

http://www.performancepet.net/

http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3100960

[Liza, Halle and Finn]

Thank you. I'll check this out.

[LLongrtr]

We have never brushed our dogs teeth. When they go to the vet, the vet is always happy with the health of their teeth and gums.

If you are feeding soft/canned food, it may be different, but if they eat dry dog food, have plenty of chew toys, it really isn't necessary.

[Adina P]

You are supposed to. I rarely remember to, but have done it. They make extra long toothbrushes, toothbrushes you can slip over your index finger and yummy chicken or liver flavored pastes (do NOT use regular human paste). But it just doesn't happen here. I've heard many claim that RAW diets with raw bones do all the brushing/flossing a dog needs, but I haven't been convinced of raw diets myself and being mostly vegetarian I just can't go there.

I also did a review of a giant-do-it-yourself brush I bought a while back...check the review section. It's Okay.

[Liza, Halle and Finn]

Thank you Adina! I will check out that review.

[Liza, Halle and Finn]

Kachi is 7 months old, and I have never tried to brush his teeth, but I can just imagine!! He'll try to eat it, and chew on it.(The toothbrush) Do you remember how long it took before she really cooperated well?

[Stephanie]

We only brushed Trekker's teeth a couple times...and had them cleaned any time he went into the vet to have something done. Even though we hardly ever brushed his teeth the vet said he had incredibly healthy teeth and gums. We just made sure he ALWAYS had something to chew on. He always had a rope and at least one bone to chew on.

We will trying to brush Brody's teeth...he already has HORRENDOUS breath...its the most aweful thing I've ever smelled....besides his poo!

[Odie]

Does anyone have any tricks for getting their dood used to having their teeth brushed? Ive unsuccessfully tried a few times now to brush his teeth, and he just hates it!

[GBK]

I swear by the Petzlife product! I started brushing Buddy's teeth really young and he loves it still, Kona sees the toothbrush come out and hightails it out the doggie door. LOL Once I catch her she is a very good girl though, stays so still for me. I use both the spray and the toothpaste, here is a link and it is a pretty cheap price on it also.

http://www.k9power.com/petzlife.php

[Barbara Burrows]

I brush Abby's teeth every night...I started when she was 3 months old, I used a finger tip brush her to get used to having them brushed. She doesn't love it but will let me brush them. I was told to brush her teeth at least 2 times a week. It is easier for me to do it every day, that way I won't forget to brush them.