As a new dog owner, are dental chews good and what training tips help?

If Sha Sha isn't interested in the chews, switching to other toys such as a Kong that needs to be chewed on to get a treat, or even brushing the teeth with a dog toothbrush and dog-safe toothpaste can help keep the teeth clean. There are also additives that can be sprayed in the mouth or added to the water to help reduce buildup (look for a VOHC seal on these products to know it is veterinary approved). You may also want to try out multiple different brands of dental chews to see if there is one she will eventually eat and chew on as they come in a wide range of choices such as rawhide-like chews, to more bone-like ones.

Hello, and thank you for using PetCoach. It's great that you're thinking about Teddy's oral health! It is best to brush Teddy's teeth daily using a toothpaste formulated for dogs. There are lots of good options, so try a few out and see what flavors Teddy likes, but I recommend an enzymatic toothpaste. Here's an example: https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/sentry-petrodex-enzymatic-toothpaste-for-dogs-5000644--1 It's also beneficial for Teddy to chew on things that are meant to massage his gums and help work tarter off his teeth. I prefer rawhides that are coated in enzymes to help combat tarter, such as these: VIP-_-92700027187667220&kwid=p27187667220&device=c&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI2PLt-eSv1wIViLrACh0JkwyJEAQYASABEgLS3PD_BwE My own opinion is that providing good products for dogs to chew on does the most to help their teeth - but the combination of chewing and regular tooth brushing will benefit Teddy's oral health the most. Also, some dogs are less enthusiastic about chewing, which makes brushing the teeth even more important. Of course, all of these are measures to help slow tarter production - but nothing completely replaces regular dental care from your veterinarian. Just as we humans brush daily and still need regular dental care, our pets need the same. Hope this helps!

Daily brushing with a pet approved tooth paste and toothbrush and dental chews are more effective than a water additive. When looking at dental products, search for the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) seal of approval. Use the chart at the link below to find acceptable dental chews. http://www.vohc.org/accepted_products_dogs.html

Hello! I personally love the Greenies brand dental chews for my dogs! You can also smear some dog toothpaste on their other toys, like a nylabone for example, to make a fun teeth brushing treat for him. :) I hope this is helpful! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Hello, I like the Virbac enzymatic tooth paste and tooth brushes the most. I also like the OraVet chews for dogs that do not tolerate toothbrushing. At 8 months, he may not need to have his teeth cleaned yet. However, at his 1 year old checkup you should make sure to ask your veterinarian to assess his teeth and give you a recommendation on when you'll need to have his teeth cleaned. Hope this helps and best of luck.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Usually these behaviors can be corrected but this usually needs in person training by a qualified dog trainer. I recommend you consider hiring a qualified dog trainer to work with you in person. You can try using positive reinforcement by focusing on the positive meaning when he listens to you and stops chewing you start rewarding him with treats and praise. Most of the time when that is done consistently, it tends to help significantly. Good luck and have a good day!

Home dental care is one of the best ways to help keep your dog's teeth and gums healthy. I would wet the toothbrush (you can get it at a pet store). You can also use a children's toothbrush. I would then use Pet approved toothpaste. There are wide varieties of flavors. Never use human toothpaste, baking soda or salt. While safe for you, these cleaning agents can be harmful to your dog if swallowed. Lift your dog's lip and brush with a gentle motion to clean his teeth. Just like you would your own teeth. Most pets will not allow you to brush the inside surface of their teeth, so typically you can just brush the outside portion of their teeth. Make sure you reward your dog after! Ideally, this process should be done daily. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.