GSD puppy

The cleanness of your German shepherds teeth are very important to there health so follow these steps to take good care of your best friend.

First: Begin slowly by merely touching the muzzle and lifting the lips of your GSD to expose the teeth and gums. After a few days, begin handling the mouth area gently even to the point of eventually stroking the GSD's teeth and gums with a cloth covered finger or a toothbrush made specifically to fit onto your finger.

Second: Introduce the German Shepherd to the canine toothbrush and toothpaste. Important: always use a toothpaste specifically formulated for dogs; DO NOT use your own toothpaste with your German Shepherd. Put a little bit of the dog toothpaste on your finger and allow the dog to sample it.

Next, put a small amount on several of the dogs teeth and gums. Later, place a small amount of toothpaste on the brush and gently brush one tooth and adjoining gumline.

Last: Begin brushing the teeth of your GSD. Over time increase the amount of teeth brushed, eventually working your way to the back teeth.

It is okay to keep German Shepherd's mouth closed as you brush. Most plaque occurs mainly on the outside of the dogs teeth so this will be fine as well as easier for the dog.

Use small back-and-forth or circular strokes at a 45º angle or so when cleaning a German Shepherds teeth, gently brushing all of the teeth that you can.

Over time, once the habit of tooth brushing has been established, brush your German Shepherds teeth every day if possible, or at least several times per week to maintain maximum dental health.