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Cleaning A German Shepherds Teeth
Cleaning a German Shepherds teeth is very important to your dogs overall health. Check your German Shepherd's teeth frequently and have your vet check the teeth during all your vet visits. The GSD's teeth will accumulate tartar over time, the same as yours or mine, and will need to be cleaned occasionally. During grooming sessions is an additional opportunity to do this as well. A dog needs regular dental care just like any person. Feeding hard "cookies" or "treats" will also help to keep your dogs teeth and gums healthy. Chew toys are a very good way to help your dog keep its teeth clean. In most cases the typical GSD will also need to have their teeth brushed on a regular basis using a canine toothbrush and toothpaste. Try to brush your German Shepherd's teeth several times a week - daily if possible because cleaning a German Shepherds teeth is an important part of their dental, and overall, health. It is important to train your GSD from an early age to accept having it's teeth cleaned and to follow the steps below to get your dog used to a tooth brushing routine. Dog training does help with this as well.
First: Begin slowly by merely touching the muzzle and lifting the lips of your GSD to expose the teeth and gums. After a few days, begin handling the mouth area gently even to the point of eventually stroking the GSD's teeth and gums with a cloth covered finger or a toothbrush made specifically to fit onto your finger. Second: Introduce the GSD to the toothbrush and toothpaste. Important: always use a toothpaste specifically formulated for dogs; DO NOT use your own toothpaste with your German Shepherd. Put a little bit of the dog toothpaste on your finger and allow the dog to sample it. Next, put a small amount on several of the dogs teeth and gums. Later, place a small amount of toothpaste on the brush and gently brush one tooth and adjoining gumline.
Last: Begin brushing the teeth of your GSD. Over time increase the amount of teeth brushed, eventually working your way to the back teeth. It is okay to keep German Shepherd's mouth closed as you brush. Most plaque occurs mainly on the outside of the dogs teeth so this will be fine as well as easier for the dog. Use small back-and-forth or circular strokes at a 45º angle or so when cleaning the teeth, gently brushing all of the teeth that you can. Over time, once the habit of toothbrushing has been established, brush your German Shepherds teeth every day if possible, or at least several times per week to maintain maximum dental health. Cleaning a German Shepherds teeth does not have to be such a huge ordeal if started early and done on a frequent basis.
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