You can clean your German Shepherd’s teeth in a number of different ways. Some people use a piece of gauze wrapped around a finger, while others use a dental appliance that squirts out a strong stream of water. Many dog owners use toothpaste made for dogs.
Although German Shepherds don’t have nearly the grooming requirements some other breeds have, they do need regular care. Cleaning the teeth is one of those chores, as is checking his coat for tangles and mats.
Just as with people, the health of your dog’s teeth and gums has a direct relationship with his body health. If his teeth become covered in plaque and his gums get inflamed, that inflammation can spread throughout his body.
Don’t use toothpaste made for people. It foams too much, and many contain ingredients that may not be safe for dogs.
You can use a child-size toothbrush while your German Shepherd is still a puppy. As your dog grows, you can switch to an adult-size brush.
Make it wet the toothbrush and then dip the bristles in a paste made of baking soda and water. This works well for cleaning the teeth and isn’t a problem if the dog swallows some of it as you work on his teeth.
TIP:
Mix the baking soda and water so the paste is about the consistency of your own toothpaste. If it’s too dry, it won’t stick to the toothbrush. If it’s too wet, it’ll run right off.
Introduce teeth cleaning gradually because your German puppy is not going to be fond of it. This is a grooming chore you should do at least twice a week for the rest of his life, so make it as pleasurable as possible. Don’t turn it into a battle.
Begin by gathering your supplies so they’re close by. Invite your puppy close, and give him a massage to relax him. Then, lifting the lip on one side of his mouth, simply touch his teeth with the toothbrush and baking soda. Talk to your puppy as you do so. After a few seconds, remove the toothbrush and praise your puppy. Then do it again.
Do this every night for several days, and when your puppy is calm and accepts his teeth being touched, begin gently brushing his teeth. Brush a quarter of his mouth and stop, praising him for his cooperation. When you’re finished, offer your puppy a drink of water.
Very gradually, over a couple weeks, increase how many of his teeth you brush in each grooming session. If he’s accepting, go ahead and do more. If he’s stiff and resistant, go more slowly. Eventually, you’ll be able to brush his entire mouth at one time.
