EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — If you’ve ever tried to brush a wiggly puppy’s teeth, you know it can feel like a tiny wrestling match — and Koda is here to prove it.
Koda, a German shepherd puppy at the El Paso Humane Society, is up for adoption and already showing off plenty of playful energy.
According to the El Paso Humane Society, Koda is about 9 weeks old now – expected to be a “big guy” when he grows up. So, for anyone who loves German Shepherds, Koda is the one for you.
Along with introducing Koda, AJ – from the El Paso Human society who joins us every week shared tips for making dog dental care a little easier at home, especially for puppies that are still getting used to having their mouths handled.
AJ said there are several options for brushing a dog’s teeth.
“A full tooth brush that looks a lot like the ones that we have,” as well as a brush “that could go on your finger.” said AJ
AJ also mentioned dental wipes, which can be used for training, and said some people choose dental chews
“if you have someone that’s a little bit too squirmy,” said AJ.
Even with all the options, AJ said traditional brushing is still one of the most effective approaches.
“Brushing their teeth the same way that we brush ours is always going to be really effective,” AJ said.
The key, AJ explained, is helping dogs get comfortable with the sensation first.
“It’s important that you train them to be okay with that feeling of you putting stuff in their mouth because that can be pretty awkward if they’ve never felt it before,” AJ said.
To start that training, AJ demonstrated a simple method using a glove. AJ suggested gently lifting the lip with a finger to show the dog that the movement is harmless.
“Literally just taking a glove and then putting your finger up underneath the lip and just showing them like, you know, nothing happened whenever I made this movement and they’re okay,” AJ said.
AJ added that even if you’re not brushing right away, those gentle movements can help dogs accept toothbrushes later.
For dogs that are too squirmy for brushing, AJ said dental chews can help — but results may vary. They also added that owners should check with their veterinarian for the best choice.
“Always talk with your vet about what’s best for your specific pet,” AJ said.
AJ said dental chews can still be better than skipping dental care altogether, noting that dental care is so related to everything else in their health.
As for Koda, he may be small and cute right now, but he’s expected to grow into a big dog — and he’s ready for someone to come scoop him up.
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