Most people stick with cute, hyperactive puppies when it comes to adopting a dog. What few people understand though is that senior dogs are much easier and much more rewarding to care for. True, they don’t stick around that long, but they aren’t much of a problem either.

Why People Don’t Usually Adopt Senior Dogs

There are numerous myths around adopting older dogs. On top of not having lots of time to stay with the adoptive family, old dogs are unjustly considered financial burdens because they might require lots of medical attention. But what dog doesn’t? Older dogs are more vulnerable to developing diseases, yes, but being playful and young does not guarantee perfect health.

Senior dogs are also thought to be less capable of bonding with their new owners. While this may be true for some cases – such as for dogs that have lived with abusive families – this is not necessarily the case for all aging dogs. It only takes time for them to build and close that bond. Once you have established its trust level and confidence on you though, it would be easier for you and your dog to bond. And bond tightly, you will.

Why You Should Adopt A Senior Dog

For one, you can save yourself a lot of troubles. Old dogs have already exhausted the energy of very young, crazy puppies. Don’t get it wrong. Many senior dogs – senior being 7 years old and above – still have several years left of energy to spend. Nevertheless with senior dogs, you need not spend extra on a new couch or endure months of housebreaking.

You can also enjoy the company of a calmer, less aggressive, and more tolerant pet. Senior dogs make for great pets for children and old people alike. They do not demand as much attention as their younger counterparts do and they are more skillful at human interaction. They can forgive the transgressions of small kids and provide the comfort adults require. They know better than to bark at everything or jump at people, and they have, more or less, curbed their aggressive tendencies. To top these off, they also have the skills to adapt to your routine and lifestyle.

Adopted senior dogs seem to understand that they have been given another chance at a good life. And they will be eager to reward you for that. They tend to be very loyal and dedicated to their owners.

For people who can’t commit to a lifelong responsibility, a senior dog offers a very ideal pet. Because they have shorter remaining lifespan, their owners don’t have to have to turn their old dog away.

Finally, adopting a senior dog is a selfless act of love. All dogs deserve a loving home, but senior dogs are especially entitled to one that is fit for retirement.

Adopting a senior dog, is without a doubt, a very rewarding experience. Not only would you get a very loyal companion, you also get a dog that will hang in there for as long as it can.

Read more about successfully adopting a senior dog from a shelter, and download your copy of Adopting A Dog – The Secret to A Successful Adoption now!

Entropion is an inward turning of the eyelid margin. This condition is presumed to be inherited when it occurs at a young age (usually within the first two years) and as a dog grows.
Depending on the breed, entropion may affect various portions of the eyelid(s). For example, large- and giant-breed dogs are predisposed to entropion affecting the outer aspect of the lower eyelid, so-called lateral or lateral ventral entropion. Small breeds have a predisposition for entropion of the inner corner of the eyelids, so-called medial or medial ventral entropion.

Depending on its severity, entropion may cause signs ranging from mild tearing to severe eye discomfort with squinting, copious tearing and damage to the surface of the eye including an ulcer, brown pigment and/or blood-vessel growth in the normally transparent cornea. Some affected dogs outgrow their entropion as their facial bones and eyelids develop. However, permanent entropion associated with signs of eye irritation will require some form of surgical correction to prevent continued discomfort and damage.

Ectropion is an outward turning of the eyelid margin that results in varying degrees of exposure of the conjunctiva (pink tissue lining the eyelids), and an inability of the eyelids to completely close during blinking. Ectropion is characteristic of breeds such as the Bloodhound, Bullmastiff, Newfoundland and many spaniel breeds. Most cases of ectropion don’t cause significant eye irritation and, hence, do not require surgery. Some dogs with ectropion experience constant or intermittent eye discharge, conjunctivitis or disease of the cornea and therefore benefit from surgical correction of the ectropion.

Distichia are hairs on the eyelid margin that come from an abnormality of the meibomian (tarsal) glands. These hairs are, in a sense, misplaced eyelashes and most do not cause any problems. Distichiasis is the condition caused by distichia that generates signs of eye irritation, including tearing, squinting, conjunctivitis, and inflammation/ulcers of the cornea. It is treated by microsurgical removal of the abnormal gland and hair follicle, electrocautery, electrolysis or freezing/cryotherapy.

Ectopic cilia are hairs arising from the meibomian gland and growing through the pink tissue lining the inside of the eyelid, causing eye irritation. Small breeds appear predisposed to this condition. These abnormal small hairs rub on the surface of the eye, causing squinting, excessive tearing, conjunctivitis, and ulcers of the cornea. Because ectopic cilia are small, diagnosis is difficult without the aid of magnification. The treatment of choice is surgery to remove the ectopic cilia. They are often multiple. Younger affected dogs have an increased likelihood of developing additional ectopic cilia.

Trichiasis is a condition in which hairs located in normal sites around the eye (e.g., skin folds around the nose, eyelids) are directed at and rubbing against the surface of the eye, resulting in tearing and inflammation of the cornea. This is a common condition in small-breed dogs. Mild degrees of trichiasis not causing disease of the cornea do not require therapy. In certain cases, simply keeping the offending hairs clipped short, so they are no longer in contact with the eye, is adequate. If the trichiasis is severe, surgical correction, although variably successful, is required.

Trichomegaly is an abnormally long eyelash. This condition is typically an incidental finding in a variety of breeds, the genetics of which have not been determined. Trichomegaly is most commonly seen in the American Cocker Spaniel, and Toy and Miniature Poodles.

Corneal dystrophy is an inherited or breed-related whitish deposit of cholesterol or fat that occurs at varying depths within the cornea. Corneal dystrophy affects both eyes and appears symmetrical between the eyes, typically in a central to off-central location.

When the epithelium (outer layer of the cornea) is involved, recurrent eye irritation from erosions/ulcers of the cornea is common. Corneal epithelial dystrophy is reported most commonly in the Shetland Sheepdog, Basset Hound, Dachshund and Border Collie.

Corneal stromal dystrophy, affecting the mid region of the cornea, may be seen in any breed of dog, and usually develops between two and four years of age. There is typically no treatment required for this form of dystrophy as the deposits tend to be small and progress minimally. However, when the dystrophy involves the endothelium (the cornea’s innermost layer), severe progressive cloudiness or bluish haziness to the surface of the eye is common. Corneal endothelial dystrophy shows up later in life (eight to 12 years) and is diagnosed in several breeds. Treatment includes eye drops or ointment. Corneal transplant remains the treatment of choice for maintaining vision.

Pigmentary keratitis is a disease of small-breed dogs in which brown pigment starts to cover the cornea. Blood vessels and scarring often accompany the pigment, and all three opacities interfere with vision. Several factors contribute to this syndrome and are related to the eyelid structure of dogs with “pushed in” noses (i.e., brachycephalic breeds), such as Lhasa Apsos, Pekingese and Pugs. These breeds have shallow bony sockets, resulting in varying degrees of eye prominence and inability to completely close the eyelids with blinking; hairs at the inner corners of the eyes; and medial ventral entropion. Exposure of the eyes, and hairs rubbing on the eyes, result in irritation to the surface of the eyes, inducing pigmentation, blood-vessel growth and scarring on the cornea. Surgery to reconstruct the eyelids is recommended, especially if the pigmentary keratitis is progressing.

Chronic superficial keratitis (pannus) is a progressive inflammatory and potentially blinding disease of the cornea that always affects both eyes. This condition develops most commonly in German Shepherd Dogs and German Shepherd crosses, but also occurs in the Belgian Shepherd Dog, Border Collie, Bouvier des Flandres, Greyhound and large crossbred dogs, among others. Affected dogs develop a progressive cloudiness or “growth” of brown pigment and/or blood vessels starting at the outer edge of the cornea and advancing toward the centre. Without treatment, the entire cornea will become affected.

The exact cause of this inflammatory condition is unknown, although it is assumed to be a result of a defective immune reaction. Other factors have been associated with the development of pannus, including a genetic component for predisposed breeds, and dogs living at high altitudes (above 4,000 feet – related to ultraviolet light exposure). Treatment involves the use of medications – eye drops or ointment – to help suppress the immune reaction. Complete remission of pannus signs can result following prolonged therapy; however, lifelong treatment is required.

Persistent pupillary membranes (PPMs). Pupillary membranes are tiny remnants of blood vessels that are normally present in puppies before birth and typically disappear between three and five weeks of age. These remnant blood vessels appear as brown-pigmented strands of uveal tissue arising from the iris. If they fail to disappear, these tissues are called “persistent.”

There are four main forms of PPMs based on where they extend:

1) iris-to-iris (the most common form);

2) iris-to-lens;

3) iris-to-cornea; and

4) iris sheets.

PPMs are non-progressive and do not require treatment. Inheritance of PPMs has been documented or suspected in several breeds.

Iris coloboma is a notch-like defect or “hole” in the iris that can occur in any region but usually develops at the 6 o’clock position. Colobomas may occur alone without other eye abnormalities, but more commonly they are associated with additional eye defects, as noted in colour-dilute breeds such as the merle Australian Shepherd. There is no treatment for this condition; however, selective breeding can prevent it.

Uveal cysts are variably brown/pigmented, round, fluid-filled structures that arise from the blood-vessel-rich layer of the eye, namely the iris and ciliary body. Uveal cysts may occur in one eye as a single cyst or multiple cysts, or they may be present in both eyes. The Boston Terrier, Great Dane, Labrador and Golden Retrievers, and Norwegian Elkhound are predisposed to this disease.

Uveal cysts may also develop due to trauma or long-standing inflammation inside the eye but because they can mimic melanomas or other tumours inside the eye, a complete eye examination is recommended. Treatment for uveal cysts is typically not required. In rare instances, the cysts (mainly those arising from the ciliary body) may be associated with glaucoma. In addition, dogs with uveal cysts that interfere with vision may require referral to a veterinary ophthalmologist for laser ablation or deflation using a needle.

Cataracts, a whitish opacity or cloudiness of the lens, may range from non-progressive, tiny and non-vision-threatening to rapidly progressive, complete and blinding. Genetics is the most common cause of cataracts in dogs. Inherited cataracts have been reported in several breeds. Dogs affected with inherited cataracts and carriers of the genetic defect should not be bred.

Treatment is indicated if the cataracts are large and interfere with vision and/or cause cataract-related inflammation inside the eye(s). Medical therapy can help control the inflammation. Surgery to remove the cataracts is required to restore vision.

Lens luxation is displacement of the lens caused by disruption of the fibres (zonules) that hold it in place. An inherited disorder of the zonules affecting both eyes (one eye may be affected first), so-called primary lens luxation, has been reported in dogs. This condition occurs due to an inherited deterioration/degeneration of the zonules.

Breeds predisposed to this condition include the terrier breeds, American Cocker Spaniel, Beagle, Border Collie, Chihuahua, Chinese Shar Pei, Miniature and Toy Poodles, Miniature Schnauzer and Pembroke Welsh Corgi. Clinical signs include red eye, cloudy eye and vision impairment, often as a result of the development of glaucoma with progressive lens displacement.

Lens luxations are typically considered an emergency, requiring early diagnosis and medical treatment initially, and prompt referral to a veterinary ophthalmologist if possible.

It is important to determine the cause of the lens luxation. In addition to inherited primary lens luxation, there are secondary causes of lens displacement, such as trauma, inflammation or tumour inside the eye, and glaucoma, all of which should be distinguished from primary lens luxation to help determine the prognosis and whether or not the affected dog should be used for breeding. If a diagnosis of lens luxation is made early in the course of the disease and the eye maintains vision, referral to a veterinary ophthalmologist for surgery to remove the lens is recommended.

Progressive retinal atrophy/degeneration (PRA/PRD) is an inherited slow deterioration/degeneration of the retina. PRA/PRD has been described in numerous breeds. Depending on the affected breed, PRA/PRD may be early-onset (six to 10 weeks of age) or late-onset (as late as seven years of age).

As the name of the condition implies, PRA/PRD is progressive and leads to blindness over months to years, depending on the affected breed. PRA/PRD affects both eyes equally, and results in loss of night vision followed by loss of day vision, hence blindness.

Most of these retinal degenerations are inherited as an autosomal recessive condition, meaning that affected dogs carry both mutated genes and the clinical signs of the disease, while other dogs in the affected litter may be carriers of one mutated gene with no clinical signs of disease. The diagnosis of PRA/PRD can be confirmed by an eye examination (see CERF sidebar) and/or electroretinography (electrodiagnostic test used to assess retinal function). As well, DNA testing using blood from dogs in question has now become available in some breeds.

As humans age, they are naturally drawn to more relaxing lifestyles, gravitating toward the contentment that comes from a long life, and releasing the stressors of younger adult life.Dogs are no different. With age comes a sense of world-weary peace and the need to be handled with care and respect.

Dogs are living longer lives these days, but while old age is prolonged, dogs need not suffer because of it. Leslie Woodcock, D.V.M., a veterinarian in Aberfoyle, Ont., says that 70 per cent of her business is therapeutic treatments, affording a sense of well-being to geriatric canines. “The chief problem is osteoarthritis,” she says. “It’s similar to people: use it or lose it. Older dogs tend to walk less, are less fit, and get stiff. It’s important to get and keep older dogs moving.”

Kim Smith, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Technician at Petworks in Dartmouth, N.S., concurs. “People think they shouldn’t push an older dog to be active, but one day of doing nothing results in three days to get the level of activity back. It’s not just about muscles and joints; movement is good for cardio-vascular health, too.”

Offering a range of services that soothe the elderly canine, Dr. Woodcock includes cranio-sacral therapy and chiropractic treatments. She states that combatting obesity is one area in which dog owners can make a difference. “Diet needs to be modified; many older dogs are overweight, and much of this is attributable to over-doing treats,” she explains. “Veggies are the best treat! Green beans are fabulous and low-calorie.”

One treatment offered by both Woodcock and Smith is underwater treadmills. Because the dogs are buoyed by water, they can enjoy the warm water and low-impact exercise. This treatment is especially effective for heavier dogs with joint issues. The treadmill provides wet heat (Smith keeps the water at about 88°F) for the dog, rendering it more mobile.

Do dogs really take to the water? “Few dogs dislike water,” Smith says. “It’s like a hot tub; they can float and relax, be content. If they are a little nervous about the water the first time, I take it gradually. Most of them really look forward to their time in the warm, relaxing water.”

The water treadmill is especially good for dogs that enjoy swimming. They are secured into a lifejacket, and float for a while, as a relaxation technique. Once they are comfortable, they’re encouraged to dog paddle; because of the density of the water, their steps are like prancing – excellent exercise in a controlled, safe environment.

Another boon to stiff and sore dogs is joint yoga, something Dr. Woodcock uses by applying pressure to specific points on the dog’s body. An ice pack applied to inflamed, painful joints – hips, knees, elbows and shoulders – helps, too, and works to prevent micro-trauma to those areas when a dog exercises. She suggests owners get their dogs to stretch before exercise, just as they might do before playing a round of tennis or going for a jog.

In cases of acute pain, where it hurts to move, and a joint might be fused, Woodcock has seen success with acupuncture to manage pain. She reminds dog owners that keeping their dogs’ nails trimmed helps with good posture and therefore with mobility – a small aspect of care with potentially big benefits.

There is a psychological uptick to ensuring older dogs stay mobile, and Woodcock says this is achieved through bonding. “It benefits owner and pet,” she says.

“Get out and get physical – dog and owner working out together. It gives the dog a great feeling – ‘I am special, I am with my person’ – and becomes a shared event dogs look forward to on a regular basis.”

Petworks handles canine rehabilitation by working to ensure that a dog with reduced function can return to relatively normal capacity, and claims that age does not affect the outcome of physical therapy. While most of Smith’s patients are there for rehabilitation, and initially attend by veterinary referral only, she sees a substantial number of geriatric canines for on-going maintenance, “A doggie spa day,” she laughs.

Among the therapies Smith offers are massage and acupressure. “They don’t wriggle as much as you’d think,” she says. “Most of them lie on their sides and fall asleep; one snores right through it!” Massage therapy for older dogs helps with pain management when the brain reacts to the new stimulus, thereby raising serotonin levels.

Dr. Woodcock and Kim Smith offer a Zen-like state to older dogs that not only need it, but deserve the comfort in their respectable old age.

Dehydration is caused when dogs loss to much body fluids. Not only water but also vital minerals can be lost in serious amounts when dehydration occurs. Dehydration is a very serious health risk when it occurs in any animal, dogs included. Since dogs are unable to sweat they release excess heat by panting. Extensive panting, especially hard panting, can lead to dehydration.

The best way to handle dehydration is to avoid it altogether by making sure that plenty of water and adequate shelter are always available. These basic steps help ward off heat stroke, a problem closely related to dog dehydration. Of course, other causes such as severe diarrhea, vomiting, and fevers can also cause dehydration

Heavy panting is generally the first sign that a dog might be becoming dehydrated. Checking the condition of the dog’s skin and gums can also give an indication if dehydration is a serious risk. By gently pinching up a fold of skin on either the dog’s neck or head you can gauge how dehydrated the pet is. A healthy dog’s skin will quickly regain it’s former shape, while dehydrated skin doesn’t have the proper amount of fluid and will more slowly reform. A dehydrated dog’s gums tend to be sticky and dry, while a properly hydrated dog will have slick gums.

If you think your dog is dehydrated, you need to quickly determine exactly how bad the situation is. More serious dehydration shouldn’t be handled by an amateur, so if the situation appears serious seek out a veterinarian immediately. IV fluids are a very important part of treatment in severely dehydrated dogs. In serious cases the situation can be even worse than normal dehydration because drinking enough to correct the issue can be problematic – dogs drinking too much water will frequently vomit, making the situation even worse.

It is important to re-hydrate the dog slowly. Rather than using plain water, give the dog an electrolyte supplement. Pedialyte is a good choice for treatment, avoid sport drinks that have sugar as they can cause diarrhea. Dispense smaller amounts of fluid frequently rather than a single big amount of liquid. In the worst situations, the dog might not be able to drink on its own, so try using a syringe or dropper to place fluids in its mouth.

Acupuncture is a method renowned for its healing effects. But did you know it works equally well on animals? Canine acupuncture is a common form of therapy used by many pet owners to help their dogs.

Acupuncture is an ancient form of Chinese therapy which has been used for over 3000 years. This form of therapy is implemented by inserting thin needles into certain acupuncture points in the body on pathways called meridians , to provide relief for various disorders. The acupuncture therapy relies on the theory that the vital energy in the body should be balanced for efficient healing.

If you are considering canine acupuncture for your dog,you should visit a canine acupuncturist, who would commence canine acupuncture treatment after asking you several important questions relating to your dog, and will also check to see whether the animal shows any external signs of illness. It is important that you go to a canine acupuncturist who is licensed, so as to ensure safe treatment. It is best that you first take your dog to its regular doctor who will refer you to an acupuncturist. Several websites online also have lists of veterinarian acupuncturists.

Canine acupuncture is said to be relaxing and may therefore make your dog drowsy. Canine acupuncture is said to be quite painless. Pet owners therefore need not worry about their dogs having to undergo a lot of discomfort during a canine acupuncture session.

Canine acupuncture could handle other disorders such as arthritis, various allergies and problems with regard to fertility, among others. Canine acupuncture treatment does not last very long. It lasts a minimum of 10 minutes and a maximum of 30 minutes. Based on your dogs condition and other important matters regarding your dogs health, the number of sittings will be specified. Usually it would take around 5 sessions to cure the dog of its ailments. Not only does canine acupuncture help deal with physical ailments, but is also known to help improve psychological and emotional ailments. What better way to keep your dog healthy!

Many diseases related to animals today are solved in a more conventional way of medication and other usual medical treatments. But there is a more satisfactory and a simpler way to address those animal related health problems and diseases.

Veterinary acupuncture is regarded as one of the oldest forms of medications in the world although it has been appearing in the scene only in the recent past. More over for animal treatments the use of veterinary acupuncture has been introduced very lately. Veterinary acupuncture is now being used effectively all over the world.

It is accepted that veterinary acupuncture is a single component of the traditional Chinese veterinary treatments. Usually herbs, diets and various other forms of medication form an integral part of usual Chinese veterinary treatment. For more than 3000 years, this method of veterinary acupuncture has been effectively carried out in China and that alone will give you an impression of the degree of effectiveness in veterinary acupuncture. Veterinary acupuncture will enhance the flow of energy in the body and will give better ability to fight against the disease.

Internal organs of the body could be controlled from outside by the use of veterinary acupuncture. Although the western implementation of the method has adapted in to a few minor changes the method is still the same which was brought forward from the ancient Chinese. The pain can be eliminated through the use of veterinary acupuncture and will give better control over the animal which has been suffering from that pain and was not able to treat due to its hostility brought about by the pain.

Many pets today including dogs, cats and also larger animals like horses and cows are also treated with veterinary acupuncture. The method does not have any surgeries or any other hard to do so stuff which will be a little tough to practice on an animal.

Now you would find thousand of veterinary acupuncture centers all over the country so an online search would be adequate in order for you to find the centre that is closest to you. Many of these veterinary acupuncture services do have their own website and will give their services and contact information to those interested in getting their pets to a treatment. Make your pet happy and healthy through the use of veterinary acupuncture. It is less complicated and it is faster while being successful as well. Make yours and your pets life that much easier with the use of veterinary acupuncture.

Dog urinary tract infections are common among the dog population in the entire world. The culprits behind dog urinary problems are bacteria which have infiltrated the dog?s body. Bacteria enter the dog?s internal system through the food it eats and the water it drinks everyday. In some instances, bacteria gain access to the dog?s urinary system through its external urinary openings. This is most common in female dogs because they have shorter urethra than their male counterparts, making it easier for bacteria to penetrate.

Like humans, dogs are prone to health problems. One health condition which poses a great risk for dogs is the urinary tract infection (UTI). Yes, you got it right! Dogs are also prone to urinary tract infection. You may not know it but your dog may be suffering from this health disease.

If you are hesitant to bring your dog to a veterinarian for financial or whatever reasons, you may use natural remedies to try to minimize your dog?s infection or better yet, cure it. There is a very effective natural remedy for urinary tract infection in dogs.

Homeopathy is a natural remedy for urinary tract infection in dogs. Unlike antibiotics or the conventional mode of treatment, it is 100% safe and has no danger of side effects. Moreover, it is affordable and can prevent recurrence of infection.

As in the case of humans, female dogs are more likely to develop UTI than male dogs. This is because bacteria can develop more rapidly in female dogs because they have a shorter urethra compared to their male counterparts.

Although dogs are bound to suffer dog urinary problems in any given time of their life, it is still important that owners know how to at least minimize the possibilities of their dog contracting such a disease. Some of the ways to prevent this from happening are the following: giving the dog enough clean water to drink everyday, giving the dog a regular bath and shampoo, giving the dog proper nutrition and diet, bringing the dog to the vet regularly for check-up, and giving the dog citrus juices and vitamin C.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, then chances are your dog has UTI. In such cases, it is best to bring your dog to the veterinarian so that it will be given proper medication. Do not try to give your dog antibiotics from your shelf, which are usually prescribed for humans as such medicines may not be advisable for dogs. It is always best to consult a veterinarian before giving your dog any medication.

Indeed, UTI is a rising health problem for dogs in our modern society. However, there are ways to prevent this condition from occurring in your dogs. One way is to give your dog enough water to drink everyday. Water helps to flush out bacteria our of your dog?s system. Another way is to bathe your dog regularly. Regular bathing helps to ward off bacteria from entering your dog?s body. As the famous saying goes, ?prevention is always better than cure?.

If you are looking for a solution to urinary tract infection in dogs or searching for a remedy for dog incontinence, look no further.

Dog teeth cleaning should be something which is done regularly as a part of your pet care routine. If possible, your dog’s teeth should be brushed daily, or least every other day. Dogs are just as susceptible as we are to tooth disease, so it is important to make sure that our dog’s teeth are kept clean and free of tartar.

Dental Disease and Your Dog’s Health

Diseases of the mouth, teeth, and gums can be very painful for your pooch and because they aren’t able to tell us when they have a toothache, as pet owners we must be diligent in keeping up with our dog’s dental care. If left untreated, a tooth infection may develop into serious complication for your dog and affect vital organs such as their heart, liver, or kidneys.

Your dog’s diet definitely has a direct effect on their dental health. Choosing foods and treats that are fortified and designed to keep their teeth and gums healthy are an easy way to implement dental hygiene into your dog’s life. Although professional cleaning by a veterinarian is an option, this should only be considered in extreme cases as unnecessarily having your dog anesthetized is not only expensive, but it also puts undue stress on your pet.

Getting Started with Dog Teeth Cleaning

Even if your dog is no longer a puppy you can train them to accept having their teeth brushed with some patience and perseverance. Both dogs and puppies alike can be acclimated to having the toothbrush in their mouths simply by starting out using your finger and a dab of peanut butter.

As your pet licks your finger and the peanut butter, begin rubbing the teeth and gums while offering plenty of praise. After a day or so of this, or as soon as your dog begins accepting this new process, use a piece of gauze wrapped around your finger and do the same thing as above. Rub the gauze around the teeth and gums using a circular motion as you would with the toothbrush. Once they are used to this, it’s time to introduce them to the real thing.

You should not use toothpaste which is made for humans, as this will cause your dog to have an upset stomach. There is toothpaste designed for dogs which have a taste and smell which appeal to your pet. Let your dog lick a little off of the brush and then add more and start brushing.

You’ll need to lift up your dogs’ gums to be able to reach their upper teeth -the canines especially. To get the best results, hold the brush at a 45 degree angle; this lets you clean teeth and gums simultaneously. Use a circular motion and pay special attention to your pets’ back teeth, which are especially subject to tooth disease.

Make dog teeth cleaning a happy occasion for your dog. Keep low key to prevent your dog from getting too excited to hold still. You should only need abut a minute to get your dogs’ teeth clean and make sure that they stay healthy and happy.