How to establish dental hygiene habits in puppies that prevent the chronic pain of periodontal disease throughout their lives.
Dental disease is almost universal in middle-aged and older dogs, representing chronic pain that is entirely preventable with appropriate early investment. The habits established in puppyhood determine whether brushing will be accepted throughout life. A puppy that has its mouth handled, teeth touched, and a brush introduced gradually from 8 weeks of age will accept dental care as normal. The same procedure introduced to a 5-year-old dog with no previous mouth handling may cause fear and resistance. The welfare investment of establishing dental routines early pays dividends across an entire lifetime of better oral health and the prevention of pain that would otherwise develop silently over years.