Taking good care of your dog is an important part of ensuring your pet’s health and wellbeing and it’s a vital part of the owner-pet bonding process. Grooming it's coat, clipping it's nails and providing the right food quality and quantity are three of the key tasks.

However, there is one responsibility that is often overlooked: brushing your dog's teeth. This is an important part of canine grooming that prevents tooth decay and gum disease. Failing to brush your pet's teeth can lead to a build-up of plaque, which causes bad breath, along with other potential health problems.

However, dogs have sharp teeth, so brushing your furry friend’s canines can seem a bit daunting. Nevertheless, with these four tips you'll be giving your pooch a winning smile in no time.

1. Establish a calm, peaceful environment

Ensure your dog is calm and in an environment with no distractions when you choose to brush their teeth. This will help you confirm your pet is comfortable with you touching their mouth, inside their lips and on their gums. Initially, touch their teeth and gums with your fingers to gently imitate the feeling of a toothbrush. This step is imperative to ensure both you and your dog are safe and happy.

2. Buy the right gear

This means purchasing a special dog toothpaste from your vet, or local animal supply store, as well as a special dog toothbrush. Human toothpaste is not suitable for your furry companion, as it contains harsh ingredients that are poisonous for dogs. A dog toothbrush has a handle that is specially made to reach their back teeth, which will make this task much easier.

3. Begin the introduction

Put a small amount of toothpaste on your finger, so your canine can get used to the taste of it. When they are used to this, begin to use the toothbrush to touch their teeth. When your dog tolerates this step, and calmly accepts it, reward them. CareVets suggest teeth-healthy treats, such as dental chews. This will ensure they have positive associations with tooth-brushing time.

4. Start brushing your dog's teeth

Dogs have many teeth, with grooves in them where plaque and bacteria like to hide. Start by brushing the front incisors, then moving to the outside of the bottom, side and back teeth. If you feel like your dog is used to the brushing motion, and remains calm, try brushing the inside of the teeth. After you have finished, praise your dog, and give them a reward.

Just like we need to regularly brush our teeth, your dog also needs it’s canines brushed too. By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to brushing your pet's teeth with ease, every time.