Taking care of your IG’s teeth is very important to the overall health of you dog. Get them used to having their mouths handled from a young age. I suggest using a finger tip brush with soft rubber bristles, then use a small child’s tooth brush, or a small head pet tooth brush.
There are several types of doggie tooth paste on the market. My favorite is the C. E. T. brand found at www.revivalanimal.com You may also find it at your vet’s office, or other pet catalogs. There are different flavors to choose from. I also recommend the C. E. T. Oral Hygiene Gel to be used after tooth brushing to help kill bacteria along the gum line.
Italian Greyhounds, as with most Toy breed of dogs tend to have more tooth and gum concerns. They have the same amount of teeth the larger breeds do, but do not produce the same amount of saliva. Therefore they are not washing away all the bacteria, which leads to more plaque build up and gum receding. Daily brushing will help keep your dog’s teeth in his/her mouth for much longer than those who do not have regular dental care.
It is recommended to have your pet’s teeth professionally cleaned by your dentist at least once every 2 to 3 years, also depending on your vet‘s advise. Also remember to ask your vet to always use the safest form of anesthesia for sight hounds.
Along with dog tooth paste, I ask MY dentist for a small amount of their fine grit abrasive powder. I keep it in a small container which I pour a little in the lid and dip my tooth brush with the dog tooth paste on it, into the powder. Then I gently brush their teeth………..adding more powder each time I add more tooth paste to the brush. I then rinse their teeth with a water filled squirt bottle. Then finish up with the Hygiene gel. All this will keep your pet’s breath smelling fresh too!
