Does your dog get yucky stuff called tartar on their teeth, which makes their mouth smell so bad? Not to mention, it is also extremely unhealthy. Well, don't worry, this is where we step in.
There are easy and safe ways to help your dog's teeth stay clean and strong. Many dog owners are concerned about using harsh chemicals on their furry friends. Most of their concerns are justified because the tartar buildup is in the mouth, and any chemical tartar removal product is being introduced orally.
So today, we sat down and compiled a guide on combatting this issue using natural products and remedies. This article is helpful for dog owners who want to know how to take care of their furry friend's teeth without using chemicals.
In this article, we will talk about different ways you can remove dog tartar naturally and how you can prevent tartar from building up on your dog's teeth.
Following these tips will allow you to keep your dog happy and healthy with a clean mouth!
What is Tartar Buildup?
Dog tartar, which is hard stuff on canine teeth, appears when sticky bacteria becomes rock-like. This is formulated with a combination of calcium deposits and a dog's saliva. Dog tartar can lead to serious problems if not taken care of.
Tartar can make your dog's mouth unhealthy. It can cause red and swollen gums that bleed. Also, tartar can make your dog's breath smell bad. It can weaken your pet's teeth and make them get holes, which hurts when your dog eats.
If tartar gets bad, your dog might lose teeth. Taking care of tartar is essential. Brushing teeth and giving your dog things to chew on helps. Natural items can also help fight tartar buildup.
Keep reading to find out how.
5 Ways to Remove Dog Tartar Naturally
Let's look at the different ways to soften dog tartar naturally.
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Rawhides
Rawhides are a common method to control tartar buildup in dogs. Just make sure to choose natural rawhides without any added preservatives, chemicals, or colors, and pick the right size for your dog.
As a pet owner, you might think getting a really big rawhide is a good idea as it would last a long time. But if your dog is small, they might get frustrated if they can't chew it comfortably.
Remember to watch over your dog while chewing to ensure the rawhide isn't breaking into sharp pieces or falling apart in a way that could hurt their mouth.
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Deer Antlers
Deer antlers are quite effective in removing tartar from dogs' teeth. Make sure you opt for antlers that have naturally fallen off deer, as these are of higher quality than those that have been cut.
Dogs are fond of antlers because of their bumpy texture. In contrast, dog owners prefer them for being clean, odorless, and gentle on a dog's stomach.
These antlers contain bone marrow, which works wonders in removing tartar. The best part is that they are long-lasting and don't break into sharp pieces. As your dog chews on the deer antler, it wears down the bone instead of causing it to splinter.
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Raw bones
The crucial point to remember is to use raw bones, not cooked ones. Cooked bones can break into sharp pieces and cause harm to your dog's mouth and throat. Raw bones are more flexible. These bones are less likely to splinter, although they may not last as long.
Raw poultry bones, like turkey neck bones for larger dogs or chicken bones for smaller dogs, are considered the top choice.
Ensure the poultry is as fresh from the farm as possible to avoid added preservatives.
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Cinnamon
Surprisingly, cinnamon is rich in antioxidants and serves as an effective antibacterial agent. Beyond preventing tooth decay, it can also freshen your dog's breath, adding to the pleasure of those goodnight cuddles.
To use, simply sprinkle around half a teaspoon onto their food once a day. A bonus is that it can help slow down food spoilage.
However, be cautious not to overdo it, as it contains a compound that can harm the liver. Moreover, avoid giving cinnamon to pregnant dogs or dogs with bleeding disorders.
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Coconut oil
Coconut oil has special components that can fight fungus and bad germs. That's why it removes tartar in your dog's mouth.
Moreover, dogs really like its nutty flavor. You can put a little bit on a toothbrush or finger to clean your dog's teeth naturally. Another idea is to dip a bone in the oil, but remember to let it dry before giving it to your dog.
How to Prevent Tartar from Forming?
It's challenging to get rid of tartar once it's already there, and it can cost a lot to have it removed by a professional.
The smartest choice is to stop it from forming in the beginning. But how can you do that? Here are a few things you can attempt.
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Regular brushing
Just like we need to clean our teeth, your dog's teeth also need cleaning. The first step is to brush your furry friend's teeth regularly to remove the sticky stuff called plaque.
How often you do this depends on how well your dog cooperates with brushing. Doing it once a day or every other day would be really good. But if that's not possible, even doing it once or twice a week is better than not doing it at all.
Use special dog toothpaste made for dogs, which comes in flavors they like. Don't use human toothpaste because it can make your dog sick.
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Bones
When your dog chews on bones, it can naturally remove the plaque on their teeth, stopping it from turning into tartar. The best kind of bones are raw ones, and you can usually get them at a low cost from nearby meat shops.
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Dental Chews
If you can't find bones, these are a good alternative. Chews are dog treats designed for dogs to chew on. They help clean their teeth and keep them busy while strengthening their jaw muscles.
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Dental treats
Dental treats are like chews, but they have special stuff to help remove the plaque on your dog's teeth and make their breath smell better.
They're a good idea to add to your dog's teeth care routine, even if you brush their teeth daily.
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Diet
Some foods, like sugary treats and cereals, can quickly make plaque and tartar on your dog's teeth.
It's best to stay away from these foods or give them only a little. This helps stop teeth problems from happening fast and keeps your dog's teeth healthier.
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Regular checkups
Even though getting your dog's teeth cleaned and checked by the vet can cost a lot, it's an excellent way to catch and fix issues before they get really bad. This can actually promote dental health and save you money over time. The vet will also take off all the tartar, which makes sure your dog's teeth stay healthy. Ultimately this will help prevent tartar buildup.
Final Words!
Taking care of your dog's teeth naturally can help them stay healthy.
By following the tips we've discussed, you can remove the built-up tartar on your dog's teeth and further stop tartar from building up and keep your dog healthy and happy.
These simple ideas will make a huge difference. Whether it's giving them bones to chew on, using coconut oil or cinnamon, or trying out dental treats, these will stop tartar build up.
So, try it and keep your furry friend's teeth sparkling and their breath smelling fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are raw bones safe for dogs?
While raw bones are generally safer than cooked bones, there's still a slight risk of choking or stomach upset. Always supervise your dog while they're chewing and choose bones that are an appropriate size for your dog.
Are there any breeds more prone to tartar buildup?
Some breeds are more prone to dental health issues due to their genetics or mouth shape. Smaller breeds and brachycephalic breeds (with flat faces) often need extra dental care.
Can I use dental treats to replace brushing my dog's teeth?
Dental treats can be a very helpful addition to your dog's dental care routine, but they shouldn't replace regular tooth brushing. Brushing helps remove plaque more effectively and stops any gum disease from happening. So keep your dog's teeth brushed.
