Despite the jokes about doggie breath, don’t take your dog’s oral health too lightly. Chronic doggie breath could be a sign of oral health problems, which should be addressed.

Read on for some important tips about dog oral care:

•  Use dental treats. Dogs want to chew. They need to chew. Chewable treats that are designed to help the family pooch with their oral care can be really helpful and can control tartar and plaque, improve their breath, and help them scratch their itch to chew. It’s a great idea for leaving with your dog, too, when he’s alone as it’ll deter unwanted chewing (of things like your favorite shoes and your sofa!)
• If you’ve got a puppy, it’s wise to start dog teeth brushing early. If so, he or she will probably be much more likely to get accustomed to it and allow it. Trying to train an older dog to allow teeth brushing can be done but will likely be a bit frustrating so do your best to instill habits by starting early. Use dog tooth paste, not human toothpaste, and use a specially designed dog toothbrush to make things easier. Dog toothpaste tends to be dog-friendly with flavors your dog will like. Plenty of praising and a healthy dog treat afterwards can make things easier, too.
• Inspect your dog’s teeth every once in a while to see if you can see any problems.  Signs of problems to watch for include blood on chew toys, frustration with eating, and puffy gums.
• See a vet regularly. A good vet will check inside your dog’s mouth as part of the regular exam. Veterinarians can help with dental problems and some will offer canine dental cleaning services, too.

Good oral care will translate to good overall health for your dog.