Dirty Doggy Teeth Help!

shimmermama · 11-10-2009, 05:08 PM

Hi all,

I need some advice on my pup's teeth. I have an almost 1 1/2 year old Italian Greyhound/Rat Terrier and I have been brushing her teeth every day since I adopted her 4 months ago. Even though I'm trying my best, she's getting significant tarter build-up on her teeth and has a small black area on her gum. I asked the vet, who told me it wasn't bad enough to spend $400 for a cleaning while under anesthesia. Does anyone have an alternative solution? I really don't want her teeth to start rotting or for her to get gum disease...but brushing daily doesn't seem to be doing anything!

Thank you!

Pai · 11-10-2009, 05:25 PM

You can try PetzLife oral gel... I use that on my gal. It slowly softens the tartar so you can brush it off.

spotted nikes · 11-10-2009, 05:31 PM

Raw meaty bones.

Kay Weber · 11-12-2009, 08:52 AM

We also have good results with Petzlife. Here's some more info on how it works: http://www.cactuscanyon.com/dog-teethcleaning.htm#ask

shimmermama · 11-12-2009, 03:19 PM

Thanks for the replies. I'll try the Petzlife and see how that goes.

Pudlmom · 11-16-2009, 03:52 PM

I'd like to recommend something we started using since our dogs' last dental, a product called Biotene. It was made for humans and then dogs.

TuckerBoo · 11-16-2009, 04:15 PM

I'm sorry about the teeth/ breath issue! That's the worst. Sounds like you're a good momma though.

According to the Chicken Soup site: You should brush your dog's teeth 5-7 times per week. This is the best preventive measure for a healthy mouth. However, most of us are unwilling or unable to do just this (NOTE: Not us!). Toys and treats are another way of preventing oral disease that is easier and appealing to most pet owners. Look for treats that have achieved the prestigious VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) seal of approval.

So if the suggestions above didn't work, maybe just try a bone or toys, like the article said? I hope you find your answer soon!

sassykzt · 11-17-2009, 02:55 AM

The gristle from raw bones cleans a dog's teeth. I know several owners who brush w/ good results. Personally, my 3 dogs are 13, never had a cleaning and their teeth are sparkling-- from raw meaty bones. The thought of general anesthesia every couple of years would worry me.

soliaris · 11-17-2009, 03:06 PM

My dogs are 14 1/5 and 7 both have great teath without ever cleaning at vets - i always give them bones w/row beef once a week, i call it 'saturday bone party';
regards

shimmermama · 12-02-2009, 09:28 PM

So I know this reply is a little late/old...

Thank you for all your replies! Where do you buy these amazing raw, meaty bones? Is it ok for her to chew on them around a 2 year old or do they leave things kind of nasty?

misty073 · 12-02-2009, 10:29 PM

I usually give my dog her bones outside but now that the weather is colder she wont touch them out there...so I just take big sheet and fold it and put Maggie on a leash and allow her to eat her bone on the sheet (she has to be on the leash or she will wander with it LOL) when she is done the sheet goes in the wash.

I buy my bones from the butcher or the grocery store (butchers are usually cheaper).

Edited to add...I have a 3 and 4 year old and my dog is completly raw fed and my kids have never gotten sick from the raw meat or bones. Just make sure your 2 year old wont try to take the bone away.