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Originally Posted by Ellie May  Feeding all wet food is okay. My Yorkie eats homecooked (so it is wet). Kibble didn't do a thing for her teeth but since homecooking and brushing her teeth are a lot better.
I would not feed raw at all (from what I have read, I would not be comfortable with it at this time). Homecooked, in my opinion, is just fine and you don't have the bacteria concerns of raw (which would only be a concern if your dog has a compromised immune system). I also would not give bones.
When homecooking you do have to supplement with vitamins/minerals.
As far as exercising the jaws, I give Ellie raw vegetables to chew on.
To brush your pups teeth just get some dog toothpaste (not human) and a toddler toothbrush or finger brush (sold at pet stores) and brush jsut like you would your own (being cautious not to push too hard on the gums). I recommend once a day but any amount is better than nothing. You could also use Petzlife Oral Gel but I wouldn't really recommend it.
Be careful when picking out a toothpaste. One oral rinse (that you put in their water) made by CET contains xylitol which is very toxic to dogs. I don't know why they use it but I would not chose that product. Some of the toothpastes contain other artificial sweeteners. Usually most anything but xylitol is considered safe but it is best to avoid sugar substitutes entirely. |
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I meant to mention that about the toothpaste.. i use a 'natural" toothpaste which honestly doesn't work AS well.. we just have to do it more often.. i too wouldn't recommend Petzlife. we have it.. i only use it if its been a while since i've done Layla's teeth and she has a lot of tartar.. its' a gel that you put on their teeth.. it works but i odn't think it is good for them from what i've read.