I want to preface this with the fact that my vet has commented several times about how good my dog's teeth look --- especially given that I have a Bichon and a Yorkie (both of which are know for very bad teeth). And - I have never brushed my dog's teeth - I've tried - they just won't let me do it.
1) I have always let my dogs chew on rawhide chips (the ones that are flat and about 2" square). I give them a new one every day or two and throw the old one away. I have been giving these to my dogs for more than 15 years and have never had a problem. And - they love them. They chew on them for hours, and I know they helps them maintain healthier teeth and gums.
2) I have been reading a lot recently about "cheese" preventing cavities (in people and in dogs). And - I'll have to admit that few days go by that my dogs don't get some cheese. It has always been a favorite treat around our house. (Cheddar cheese is a good cheese to feed them.) And - you really don't need to give them much. Just a piece the size of a "dice" several times a day. You can use them for treats.
*** I have been reading that cheese helps prevent tarter buildup and also helps maintain and encourage new enamel growth. It also encourages more saliva - which helps keep their mouths and teeth clean. And, there are ingredients in cheese that help in other ways.
So - a small piece of cheese should be given to our dogs - especially after they have finished their meals - so it can go to work in their mouths.
***** The end result is that I do the two above things - and I know for a fact that both my dogs have better-than-average teeth.
Carol Jean |