Dental care is an important part of regular Miniature Schnauzer care. If you don’t think so, you have likely never heard of The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). This particular organization recommends that pet owners follow special Dental Care Guidelines for dogs.
Until recently, dog owners have ignored the importance of Miniature Schnauzer care in regards to theirog’s teeth. In fact, it is estimated that even today, as many as 66% of dog owners do not provide their dogs with the minimum recommended dental care that veterinarians consider essential. Due to this lack of dental discretion, approximately 80% of all dogs suffer from oral disease by the time they are three years old.
According to the AAHA, there are two practices you can employ to help keep your dogs mouth healthy and happy:
- Oral examination
- Dental cleaning
Mniature Schnauzer care as far as your dog’s teeth are concerned, should begin when he is still a puppy. When you regularly provide him with dental cleanings, and have the vet examine his teeth, the following problems can be detected early and/or prevented:
- Problems with your puppy’s “baby teeth”
- Missing teeth or extra teeth
- Swelling of the gums
- Anomalies
- Excessive build up of tartar and plaque
- Periodontal disease
- Oral tumors
- Etc.
You should have your dog’s mouth examined by the Vet at least once a year. However, in between checkups you can do your part to make sure your dog’s teeth are receiving the best Miniature Schnauzer care you can provide.
The best thing you can do for your dog is give his teeth a brushing once a week or once every two weeks. Get him used to this event while he is still a puppy and he will become familiar with the process and will be less likely to fight you.
As you brush your pet’s teeth, watch for signs such as extremely foul breath (something that is far more putrid than your standard doggie breath), red and swollen gums, crusty tartar that looks brownish-yellow, and pain or bleeding when the gums are touched. All of these symptoms could be a sign of gum disease. If you notice any of these signs, have the Vet check your dog’s teeth.
If you would like to learn more about how you can provide the best Miniature Schnauzer care for your dog’s teeth, consult your vet.
