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There are special toothbrushes and toothpastes for dogs that you can purchase from pet supply stores. For toothbrushes, choose one with soft bristles, or you can buy a finger mitt with nubs designed for brushing your dog's teeth. Stick with using doggy toothpaste, as it is safer for dogs to swallow.
Ideally you should start brushing his teeth when your puppy's adult teeth have all come in, which should happen by the time he is six to eight months old. Start off by brushing only a few teeth at a time so that your dog has time to get acclimated to the procedure.
Daily brushing is best, though once a week is okay. Rub your dog's teeth and gums with the toothbrush and toothpaste when you brush. You can also have your dog's teeth brushed at the grooming salon, though this is often not enough cleaning to prevent gum disease unlike you bring your dog every week.
If your dog does not let you brush his teeth, your veterinarian can put him under anesthesia once a year to clean the tartar off his teeth. Your veterinarian should also examine your dog's teeth and gums yearly at his health check-up. - If your dog doesn't like to have his teeth brushed, The Original Dog Bible recommends switching him to a dental formula of dry dog food. The formulation of these dog foods cleans teeth better than normal dry foods because it works all of the way down to your dog's gums. You can also help keep your dog's teeth healthy by providing him with toys made from hard rubber, rope or sheepskin, and giving him dog biscuits designed for cleaning his teeth.
- Periodontal disease is infection of the gums and other tissues around your dog's teeth. Toy dog breeds, such as Yorkshire terriers or toy poodles, are more prone to developing periodontal disease in their lifetimes, due to their having the same number of teeth as larger breeds in a much smaller-sized jaw. Symptoms of periodontal disease in your dog's gums are bad breath that never goes away, excessive drooling, gum inflammation, bleeding gums receding gums or loose teeth. Your dog may paw at his mouth as though in pain, and/or lose his appetite.
