Like all canine companions, Australian Labradoodle puppies need regular dental care. After your Australian Labradoodle adoption, we recommend brushing your doodle’s teeth as often as you groom them.
Poor Labradoodle dental care encourages tartar build-up which can cause swollen, inflamed gums and dental infections that can lead to serious health issues, such as heart and kidney disease.
Puppies between one and three years old should have their teeth brushed at least once a week, although more often is beneficial to have your puppy become comfortable with the task. Doodle over three years old should have their teeth brushed at least three times a week. Getting your young Labradoodle puppy used to toothbrushing will pay off when you have to brush more often.
We recommend that new dog owners start brushing their young puppy’s teeth daily to get them accustomed to teeth brushing. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure you maintain your doodle’s dental hygiene:
Buy and use a toothbrush specifically made for dogs
– canine toothbrushes have long handles that allow you to reach your doodle’s back teeth.
Use enzyme toothpaste
– never use human toothpaste to brush your dog’s teeth. We recommend using enzyme toothpaste, because they are specially made for dogs.
Use treated dental cleaning pads
– find dental cleaning pads that are specially treated to wipe puppy teeth surface. They have enzymes that do the cleaning for you. For dogs that do not tolerate toothbrushing, we recommend products by Dogs Are Kids Too and TrueDog (Spray Me: Doggy Dental Spray or Gel Me: Doggy Dental Gel). These products fight plaque and tartar with no brushing.
Reduce build-up with natural choices like chew toys and treats
– nylon or rubber chew toys are good options because they have rough, bumpy surfaces that keep the dog engaged. Consider giving him chew treats and crunchy foods that have been approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council. We don’t recommend commercial or rawhide dental chews due to the amount of artificial ingredients and preservatives used.
Slowly get your dog accustomed to brushing
– you can start by putting treats such as peanut butter on your finger and while he is attempting to lick it off your finger, gently rub his teeth and gums. We found that it is easiest to use a finger brush with young puppies as they are inquisitive and learn about their world through chewing.
Learn how to handle his muzzle
– many dogs are not used to teeth brushing, any may be uncomfortable with the task, making it difficult for you to do a thorough job brushing. To ensure successful teeth brushing, you need to know how to manage your doodle’s muzzle. Start by placing one hand on top and the other on the bottom and allow your hands to rest there for a few seconds. When he is used to having your hands on his mouth, try parting his lips and gently opening his jaw. Alternatively, your Labradoodle may lie down for toothbrushing. You can expose your labradoodle’s back teeth by lifting his cheek with a finger of your non-dominant hand while the other hand will brush his teeth. Have your doodle lie down on the other side and repeat the procedure for the other side. Keep in mind, that the more exposure your dog will have to toothbrushing, the easier it will be for you to successfully complete the task.
Find a time when your Labradoodle is calm
– only bring out your brushing supplies when your dog is comfortable with you touching his mouth. Find a time when he is quiet and relaxed. We found that the best times to brush your doodle’s teeth are when your dog is relaxed and ready to take a nap.
In the same way you put time aside to groom your puppy’s coat, and check their eyes and ears, you should do the same with their dental health. Like humans, dental issues can become painful for doodles if left untreated. For additional resources to help you care for your puppy after you complete your Australian Labradoodle adoption, visit the Texas Australian Labradoodle blog.