Is Fido suffering from bad breath? When he greets you, panting profusely, eagerly wagging his tail are you beginning to wish that you where really being greeted by his the end with the tail attached? Are his teeth a dark shade of brown rather than a sparkling white? What all this may indicate is that Fido may issues with his oral hygiene.

Just as a human should keep his teeth and gums clean so should Fido. Dogs can have bits of food and other debris trapped in between their gnashers. This will lead to plaque and tartar causing a brown discolouration. It will also lead to bad breath, gingivitis, pus, and infections, which can subsequently enter the blood stream and infect other major organs such as the heart liver and lungs.

Feeding Fido dry kibbles rather canned or soft meat variety of dog food can go a long way to preventing the build up of tartar, and chewing can break down the stuff already existing on the teeth. Although if the condition of the teeth is already quite bad a trip the vets is in order for some professional descaling. There are many chewy products on the market which encourage Fido to masticate for the good of his own health. However, there is nothing that the larger dog loves to chew than a big meaty bone, which helps the molars and premolars. However, for the front teeth (and for smaller dogs who are not so enamoured with chewing) brave owners may have to resort to the tooth brush and paste.

It is recommended that Fido should have this done at least 2 to 3 times a week, and as with all things to do with dogs, the early that the regime is started in Fido's life the easier it will be: dogs can be sensitive about people poking about in their mouths. However, do not be tempted to charge in there with the tooth paste for human use. The foam can be injurious to Fido if swallowed, which he will do. Vets have special concoctions that are suitably tempting for doggie palates and are mercifully foam free. As for the brush it self, there are specific implements that can fit on the finger, but generally any soft tooth brush will do the job. And remember, plenty of treats and praise at the end. You can also pat Fido for being a good boy!