When it comes to caring for our dogs, most owners are very attentive. We know they need food, shelter, exercise, vet visits and more. We rearrange our schedules and our homes to accommodate their needs and spend money to provide them with the best in life. Yet somehow, one of the most important pieces to our dogs’ hygiene is often overlooked. Oral hygiene is a fast-growing reason for unexpected vet bills. It’s estimated that the majority of dogs show some type of dental disease, like canine periodontal disease, by the time they are just three years old. So, if you’re noticing your dog is sporting some ripe dog breath, it may be time to take action. Brush your dog’s teeth It seems obvious when you think about it, but brushing your dog’s teeth is a very important step in his overall care. Brushes made specifically for dogs allow you to better reach inside their mouths for optimal cleaning. And while most dogs are resistant to brushing at first, you can ease the tension by using special canine toothpaste that’s flavored like some of their favorite treats: peanut butter, chicken, bacon, and more. If at first you don’t succeed, don’t give up. There are a multitude of brushes, including some that slide onto your finger, that you can try to find what suits best. And easier still, dog dental wipes are an option as well. Just rub your dog’s teeth with the wipes to help reduce buildup. Purchase dental treats and chews Every dog loves treats and if yours is also a chewer then take advantage of all the oral benefits of things like: Greenies, bully sticks, Nylabones, etc. These toys and treats have cleaning properties that help break down tartar as your dog chews them. Many contain enzymes that help promote dental health and as they chew it works into the crannies of their teeth. It’s a simple way to incorporate better dental health in your dog’s normal routine. Get professional assistance If you’re a bit late to assisting your dog with his dental health, don’t worry. Veterinarians are very skilled in providing cleanings, in fact it comprises a lot of the work they do on a daily basis. Scheduling an appointment with your vet is the only real way to know the state of your dog’s oral health. Sometimes the issue is not as bad as presumed and can be handled at home. For more serious cases, a routine cleaning by the vet is enough to stave off issues or clean up any existing ones.