Oral hygiene is often overlooked in the case of dogs. However, it is essential to keep their teeth clean to prevent potential dental issues in the future.
The good news is that making toothpaste for your furry friend is an easy DIY task that even beginners can handle.
Ingredients
Before we start, let’s see what you’ll need for making dog toothpaste:.
- 1 tablespoon of baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1 beef bouillon cube
- 1 cup of water
- 1/4 cup of coconut oil
- A few drops of peppermint extract (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Dog Toothpaste
Once you’ve gathered all the ingredients, follow these simple steps to make your DIY doggie toothpaste:.
- Add the baking soda, salt, and beef bouillon cube to a mixing bowl and mix well.
- Boil a cup of water and pour it over the mixture in the mixing bowl. Stir the ingredients until the bouillon cube dissolves.
- Let the mixture cool down for a few minutes before adding the coconut oil and peppermint extract (if you’re using it). Mix the ingredients well.
- Transfer the mixture to an airtight container that can be used for applying toothpaste to your dog’s brush. Mason jars work great for this purpose. Store the toothpaste in the refrigerator.
- When it’s time to brush your dog’s teeth, take a small amount of toothpaste using a toothbrush (specifically designed for dogs, if possible). Brush in circular motions, paying attention to both sides of the teeth and gums. Brush for approximately two minutes.
Benefits of DIY Dog Toothpaste
Made with easily accessible ingredients, DIY dog toothpaste has a range of benefits:.
- You know exactly what goes into the making of the toothpaste, ensuring that it is free of any harmful ingredients that could be present in store-bought products.
- The use of baking soda helps balance the pH level in your dog’s mouth and prevents bacteria from growing.
- Coconut oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help prevent infections and inflammation of the gum.
- Using beef bouillon adds flavor to the toothpaste and makes it more appealing to dogs, enhancing the brushing experience.
- By regularly brushing your dog’s teeth, you can prevent costly dental procedures such as tooth extraction in the future, ensuring that your furry friend has good oral hygiene and healthy teeth and gums.
Precautions to Take While Brushing Dog Teeth
Before starting a brushing routine, it’s important to keep a few things in mind:.
- Make sure that your dog is comfortable with the process and doesn’t feel threatened or scared. Introduce the toothbrush slowly and use positive reinforcement to encourage your dog.
- Always use toothpaste specifically made for dogs. Human toothpaste may contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs if swallowed.
- Only use a toothbrush designed for dogs. Do not use a toothbrush made for humans, as the bristles and size may not be suitable for your dog’s mouth.
- Do not force your dog to brush their teeth. If your dog shows signs of discomfort or tries to bite, stop the process and try again later.
Conclusion
Maintaining good oral hygiene for dogs can prevent many dental problems and provide a happy and healthy life for them. Creating your own dog toothpaste is a great way to keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy.
With the use of uncomplicated ingredients, cost-effectiveness, and ease of preparation, you’ll be well on your way to a sparkling smile for your furry friend.