Your pugs need their oral health in tip-top shape just as much as we humans do. If you genuinely love your four-legged friend, you’d be just as dedicated to taking care of your pup’s teeth as you do with yours.
So where should you start?
Doggy dental care can be a little challenging, especially for first-time owners. If you’re lost, don’t worry; you’re not alone! The plethora of pug toothbrushes online and offline leave you with tons of options. However, they can get a bit confusing. Let this guide help you choose the right one for your canine’s pearly whites.
Let’s get started, shall we?
Get to Know Your Pug’s Chompers
For this first tip, you’re going to have to do some exploration. Give your pug’s gums a lift, and take a look at their tongue for the sake of being thorough. Start doing this even if your dog is still a puppy, so they get used to dental checks early on.
Not only does this bring familiarity, but it can potentially be life-saving as well, especially if you pick up any abnormalities. If you see something that isn’t right, such as bleeding in your pup’s gums or cavities, early veterinary intervention will help squash potential problems before they worsen.
Let Your Pug Feel Comfortable
If you’re nervous about dentist appointments, your pugs are too. They know that uncomfortable feeling of letting a stranger explore their teeth all too well. However, it has to be done all in the name of achieving good oral health.
Ease your dog’s worries by using positive reinforcement. You may want to prepare some toys and healthy treats to get your strategies to work. No pup can say no to those things. Like the first tip, you can begin at the puppy stage to let them get used to it.
Know Your Arsenal
Your tools will be your extra hands. If your dog’s dental routine needs specific items, you need to know the ins and outs of these tools before you use them. Take the time to research them to see what you’ll be working with. Google is your friend here, so please don’t hesitate to search away. You can do some offline homework by reading some dog care books too. In this age of information, you’re bound to find something helpful.
Consult an Expert Before Making Moves
Before you make any decision about your pug’s health, don’t be afraid to ask questions and advice from veterinarians. They’ll gladly answer any inquiry regarding your dog’s teeth, from diseases down to toothpaste recommendations. Not only can they give you expert tips, but they can draw up specific plans for your pug’s oral health when necessary.
Our Top Picks
Vet’s Best Dog Toothbrush
Vet’s Best Dog Toothbrush is expertly designed for optimal oral hygiene. Crafted by veterinarians, this powerful duo fights plaque and tartar, ensuring a fresh breath and strong gums for your pug. The toothbrush boasts gentle bristles, ensuring a comfortable brushing experience.
Arm & Hammer Toothbrush for Dogs
Arm & Hammer Dental Care Kit is crafted to fulfill your pug’s oral health needs easily. This all-encompassing set features toothpaste, toothbrush, and finger brush for thorough cleaning. Enhanced with baking soda, the toothpaste effectively tackles plaque and tartar, promoting fresh breath.
Considerations When Buying a Toothbrush for Your Pug
Don’t let toothbrushes’ simple appearance for you. As mentioned earlier, the variety of options can leave some confusion for pet owners. Not to worry, though. Keep these considerations in mind, and you’ll be fine.
Size
Pugs have small mouths with even shorter jaws, making them stand out amongst other breeds. If you’re going to buy a toothbrush for your little pooch, get one that’s comfortable enough to fit in their mouth.
Pro tip: get small-headed toothbrushes for maximum cleaning and scrubbing.
Materials
The cliche mantra of not judging a book by its cover is alive and well, even in picking out toothbrushes for your pug. Even the finest-looking brushes can be dangerous. Since hindsight is 20/20, don’t buy something that you’re not sure would be safe for your dog to use. It’s better to be safe than sorry, right?
Avoid potential doggy dental troubles by buying toothbrushes made from FDA-approved, food-grade materials. This saves you time, trouble, money, and a ton of vet trips.
Bristles
Do you think bristles don’t matter? Think again! Bristles may look insignificant on the surface, but they can make or break your pug’s gums.
Bleeding and swollen gums have severe consequences on dogs’ oral and overall health, especially if they’re left untreated. Opt for brushes with gentle bristles to prevent possible issues. They may be soft, but they’re more than enough to get the job done.
Handles
Brushing a pug’s teeth is no walk in the park. How can one ensure that your dog’s teeth are squeaky clean?
Look at the toothbrush’s handle. If it comes in an angled handle, buy it. Angled toothbrushes make it possible to clean hard-to-reach areas where straight handles can’t do their job. Another benefit? They’re easy on your hands and wrists too!
Brush Length
The last (but definitely not the least) factor to consider is a toothbrush’s length. What good is a fancy-looking toothbrush if it can’t fully clean your pug’s teeth?
Professionals recommend buying seven to nine-inch toothbrushes. This range assures you and your dog that no tooth will be left uncleaned.
Man’s best friends deserve nothing but the best, especially in oral care. Get your pug’s teeth as clean as a whistle with the help of this handy entry!
