Why Pug Dental Care Matters
Pug dental care is often overlooked by many dog owners, but it plays a crucial role in your pug’s overall health and well-being. Pugs are prone to dental issues due to their unique facial structure and small mouths, which can lead to overcrowded teeth, gum disease, and bad breath. Without proper dental care, these problems can quickly escalate, potentially leading to infections, tooth loss, and even impacting your pug’s internal organs.
Dental care isn’t just about keeping your pug’s breath fresh—it’s about ensuring they live a long, healthy life. Regular brushing, dental chews, and professional cleanings can help prevent plaque buildup, reduce the risk of gum disease, and save your pug from painful dental problems down the road.
For pug owners, it’s essential to develop a dental care routine that’s easy to follow and effective. By making dental care a regular part of your pug’s life, you’ll not only protect their teeth but also contribute to their overall happiness and comfort.
Common Dental Problems in Pugs
Pugs are more prone to dental issues than many other breeds due to their small mouths and flat faces. Understanding the common dental problems that affect pugs can help you take preventive measures and recognize early signs of trouble.
Overcrowded Teeth
Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease)
Bad Breath
While all dogs can have bad breath, persistent foul-smelling breath in pugs is often a sign of underlying dental problems, such as tartar buildup, bacterial infections, or gum disease. If your pug’s breath smells noticeably bad for an extended period, it’s time to take action with better dental care.
Tooth Loss
Tip: Watch for signs like drooling, reluctance to eat, or persistent bad breath, as these may indicate dental problems that need veterinary attention.
"Your pug may be cute, but bad breath? Not so much! Time to fix those teeth!"
Step-by-Step Guide to Brushing Your Pug’s Teeth
Choose the Right Tools
Start by selecting a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for dogs and a toothpaste with a flavor your pug will enjoy, such as chicken or peanut butter. Human toothpaste contains ingredients that are harmful to dogs, so make sure to use a product specifically designed for pets.
- Tip: Use a finger toothbrush if your pug is resistant to a regular brush—it can help you get into those hard-to-reach areas more easily.
Introduce Brushing Gradually
The first time you brush your pug’s teeth shouldn’t be a full-on cleaning. Instead, let your pug get used to the feeling of the toothbrush and toothpaste. Start by allowing them to lick the toothpaste from the brush and gently touch their teeth with the brush for a few seconds.
- Tip: Reward your pug with praise or a treat after each short session to build a positive association with tooth brushing.
Use Gentle Circular Motions
Keep Sessions Short and Fun
Tip: Make brushing a daily routine by combining it with other positive activities like playtime or a walk, so your pug begins to look forward to it.
Reward and Repeat
"Brushing your pug’s teeth might take some patience, but think of all the pug kisses you’ll enjoy without the bad breath!"
How Often Should You Brush Your Pug’s Teeth?
Brushing your pug’s teeth regularly is essential for maintaining their dental health, but how often should it be done? Ideally, daily brushing is recommended to prevent plaque buildup, but if that’s not feasible, even brushing three to four times a week can make a significant difference in your pug’s dental hygiene.
Daily Brushing for Optimal Health
Daily brushing is the gold standard when it comes to preventing dental issues like plaque, tartar buildup, and gum disease. Pugs are prone to dental problems because of their flat faces and overcrowded teeth, so consistent care is especially important.
- Tip: If possible, brush your pug’s teeth at the same time every day, such as after their evening meal or during a calm moment in the evening. Making it part of your daily routine can help both you and your pug adjust to the habit.
Weekly Brushing: A Manageable Routine
If daily brushing isn’t possible, aim for at least three to four times a week. While it won’t be as effective as daily brushing, it still helps remove food particles, reduce plaque, and freshen your pug’s breath.
- Tip: Use a reminder system or set alarms on your phone to stay consistent with weekly brushing. Over time, even a few sessions a week can prevent major dental issues.
Signs You Need to Brush More Often
If you notice your pug has persistent bad breath, difficulty chewing, or red, inflamed gums, it’s a sign that more frequent brushing may be needed. Gum disease progresses quickly in pugs due to their unique dental structure, so increasing brushing frequency can help prevent more serious issues.
Tip: Keep an eye out for changes in your pug’s behavior during meals—if they’re suddenly reluctant to eat or seem to be chewing on one side, it could be a sign that dental issues are developing.
Building Up to Daily Brushing
For pugs that are resistant to brushing, it’s okay to start slowly and work up to daily brushing. Start with a few teeth at a time, gradually increasing the duration and coverage as your pug becomes more comfortable.
- Tip: Use rewards and positive reinforcement to make brushing a more enjoyable experience for your pug. Eventually, they’ll begin to tolerate, if not enjoy, their daily dental care.
Last update on 2025-02-16 / * Affiliate links / Image source: Amazon Product Advertising API
Best Dental Chews and Toys for Pugs
Dental chews and toys are an excellent way to supplement your pug’s dental care routine, especially if brushing isn’t their favorite activity. These products can help reduce plaque buildup, freshen breath, and keep your pug entertained—all while supporting better oral health.
Greenies Dental Chews
Greenies are a popular choice among dog owners for a reason—they’re designed to help clean teeth, reduce tartar, and freshen breath. They’re also available in a size suitable for small breeds like pugs.
- Benefits: Greenies are easy to digest and are shaped to clean teeth down to the gumline, making them an effective tool in your pug’s dental care routine.
- Tip: Offer Greenies as a treat after brushing or in between meals to maintain your pug’s dental health throughout the day.
Nylabone Durable Chews
Nylabone chews are long-lasting and tough, designed to satisfy your pug’s urge to chew while scraping away plaque. These chews come in a variety of flavors and textures, providing an engaging and effective way to help keep your pug’s teeth clean.
- Benefits: Nylabone chews are particularly useful for pugs that are heavy chewers. Their durable construction ensures that they last longer, while the textures help clean your pug’s teeth as they chew.
- Tip: Always choose the appropriate size and hardness of Nylabone for your pug, and supervise them during chew time to avoid any choking hazards.
KONG Dental Chews
KONG toys are well-known for their durability, but they also offer dental versions that are designed to clean your pug’s teeth while they chew. These rubber toys are textured to help remove plaque, and you can fill them with treats to make them even more appealing.
- Benefits: KONG Dental Chews are not only effective for cleaning teeth, but they also provide mental stimulation and help alleviate boredom, making them a great multi-purpose tool in your pug’s dental care.
- Tip: Fill the KONG with dental-friendly treats like carrots or dental sticks to enhance its effectiveness.
Dental Wipes and Treats
For pugs that resist traditional brushing, dental wipes and treats offer an alternative way to maintain oral health. Dental wipes can be used to clean teeth and gums, while dental treats are designed to help reduce plaque and freshen breath.
- Benefits: Dental wipes are easy to use and can reach areas of the mouth that may be difficult to brush. Dental treats, such as Pedigree Dentastix, provide a tasty way to improve your pug’s oral hygiene.
- Tip: Use dental wipes in combination with brushing or on days when brushing isn’t possible to keep your pug’s teeth clean and healthy.
"Who knew your pug’s favorite toy could double as a dental tool? Playtime just got a whole lot healthier!"
Warning Signs of Dental Problems in Pugs
Pugs, like many small breeds, are prone to a variety of dental issues. Recognizing the early warning signs of dental problems is essential to ensuring your pug receives the care they need before minor issues turn into serious health concerns. Dental problems not only affect your pug’s teeth and gums but can also lead to infections that spread to vital organs like the heart and kidneys.
Bad Breath
While all dogs have a certain degree of “doggy breath,” persistent foul-smelling breath could be a sign of dental issues like plaque buildup, tartar, or even an infection. Bad breath is often one of the earliest indicators of dental problems in pugs, and ignoring it could lead to more severe conditions.
- Tip: If your pug’s breath smells worse than usual and doesn’t improve with regular brushing or dental chews, it’s time to consult your vet. Bad breath may be a sign of gum disease or other oral infections.
Difficulty Chewing or Reluctance to Eat
If your pug is suddenly reluctant to eat, especially hard food, it could indicate dental pain or discomfort. Tooth decay, broken teeth, or infections can make chewing painful, causing your pug to avoid their regular meals or only chew on one side of their mouth.
- Tip: Keep an eye on your pug’s eating habits. If they seem to be avoiding their food, or if they’re drooling excessively while eating, it’s a good idea to have their teeth checked by a vet.
Red or Bleeding Gums
Gum disease is common in pugs due to their crowded teeth. Red, swollen, or bleeding gums are early signs of periodontal disease, which, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss and other serious health issues. You might notice bleeding gums when your pug chews on toys or when you’re brushing their teeth.
Tip: Regular brushing can help prevent gum disease, but if you notice persistent redness or bleeding, it’s time to schedule a professional dental cleaning.
Excessive Drooling
While pugs are known to drool occasionally, especially in hot weather or after exercise, excessive drooling can be a sign of dental pain. Drooling may indicate that your pug is experiencing discomfort from a tooth infection, gum disease, or other oral issues.
- Tip: If you notice your pug drooling more than usual and it’s accompanied by other signs like bad breath or reluctance to eat, it’s essential to consult your vet for a dental check-up.
Loose or Missing Teeth
Loose or Missing Teeth
Loose teeth are often the result of advanced gum disease or tooth decay. If you notice that your pug’s teeth seem to be moving, or if they lose a tooth altogether, this could indicate a serious dental issue that requires immediate attention.
- Tip: Regular dental check-ups can help identify loose teeth early, and preventive care like brushing and dental chews can reduce the risk of tooth loss.
Professional Dental Cleaning for Pugs: What to Expect
While at-home dental care is essential, professional cleanings are equally important for maintaining your pug’s oral health. Most veterinarians recommend scheduling a professional dental cleaning for your pug at least once a year, especially since pugs are more prone to dental issues due to their small mouths and overcrowded teeth.
The Importance of Professional Cleanings
Even with regular brushing and dental chews, plaque can still accumulate on your pug’s teeth, particularly below the gumline where it’s hard to reach. Over time, this plaque hardens into tartar, which can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and other health problems. Professional cleanings help remove tartar buildup and give your pug’s teeth a deep clean that’s impossible to achieve with at-home care alone.
- Tip: Talk to your vet about the ideal frequency of dental cleanings for your pug. While once a year is common, some pugs may need more frequent cleanings depending on their oral health.
What Happens During a Professional Cleaning
During a professional dental cleaning, your pug will be placed under anesthesia to ensure they remain calm and pain-free while the vet works on their teeth. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:
- Examination: The vet will first examine your pug’s mouth to check for any signs of infection, damaged teeth, or gum disease.
- X-rays: In some cases, the vet may take dental X-rays to identify any issues below the surface of the gums, such as hidden infections or bone loss.
- Scaling and Polishing: The vet will use specialized tools to remove tartar from both above and below the gumline. Afterward, your pug’s teeth will be polished to smooth out the surfaces and help prevent future plaque buildup.
- Extractions (If Needed): If any of your pug’s teeth are badly decayed or infected, the vet may recommend extraction to prevent further health issues. This is especially important if the infection is spreading or causing pain.
Anesthesia and Safety
Many pet owners worry about their dog being placed under anesthesia for dental cleanings, but it’s a standard practice to ensure your pug is comfortable and cooperative during the procedure. Modern anesthesia is very safe, and your vet will monitor your pug closely throughout the cleaning to ensure everything goes smoothly.
- Tip: If you have concerns about anesthesia, speak with your vet beforehand. They can walk you through the process and explain how they keep your pug safe during the procedure.
Post-Cleaning Care
After your pug’s dental cleaning, they may be a bit groggy from the anesthesia, but most dogs recover quickly. Your vet may recommend a soft diet for the first day or two, especially if any teeth were extracted. It’s also important to continue regular brushing and use dental chews to maintain the results of the cleaning.
Home Remedies for Pug Dental Care
While regular brushing and professional cleanings are essential for maintaining your pug’s dental health, there are a few natural, at-home remedies that can support your pug’s oral hygiene. These remedies are easy to incorporate into your daily routine and can help prevent plaque buildup and bad breath between brushing sessions.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is known for its antibacterial properties, which can help reduce the bacteria in your pug’s mouth that lead to plaque and bad breath. You can apply a small amount of coconut oil directly to your pug’s teeth and gums, or you can even add a little bit to their food.
- Tip: Rub a small amount of coconut oil onto your pug’s teeth using a soft cloth or your finger. Most pugs enjoy the taste, so they’ll likely tolerate this remedy well.
Raw Carrots
Raw carrots are a natural and healthy snack for your pug that also helps clean their teeth. The crunchy texture of carrots helps scrape plaque off your pug’s teeth while they chew, and as a bonus, carrots are low in calories and packed with vitamins.
- Tip: Offer your pug small pieces of raw carrot as a treat or mix them into their regular meals. Just be sure to cut the carrots into bite-sized pieces to prevent choking.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is another natural remedy that can support your pug’s dental health. Its antibacterial properties help fight plaque and bad breath. You can add a small amount (about a teaspoon) of apple cider vinegar to your pug’s water bowl to freshen their breath and reduce bacteria in their mouth.
- Tip: Start with a small amount of apple cider vinegar in your pug’s water to make sure they tolerate the taste. Gradually increase the amount if needed, but don’t exceed a teaspoon per bowl of water.
Dental Wipes
If your pug is resistant to brushing, dental wipes are a good alternative. These wipes are designed to clean the teeth and gums, removing food particles and plaque. They’re less invasive than a toothbrush and can be a good option for pugs that struggle with a regular brushing routine.
- Tip: Use dental wipes once or twice a week to help maintain your pug’s oral hygiene, especially if you’re struggling to brush their teeth regularly.
Parsley for Fresh Breath
Parsley is a natural breath freshener and can help reduce bad breath in pugs. You can chop up a small amount of fresh parsley and sprinkle it over your pug’s food, or mix it into their water. The chlorophyll in parsley helps neutralize odors and improve breath.
- Tip: Use fresh parsley instead of dried, as it contains more active ingredients to freshen your pug’s breath. Just be sure to use it sparingly to avoid any digestive upset.
How Diet Impacts Your Pug’s Dental Health
What your pug eats plays a crucial role in their dental health. A diet high in sugars and soft foods can lead to plaque buildup, while certain types of food can help naturally clean your pug’s teeth. Choosing the right diet can help prevent dental problems and keep your pug’s teeth strong and healthy.
Dry Kibble vs. Wet Food
Dry kibble is generally better for your pug’s dental health than wet food. The hard texture of kibble helps scrape plaque off your pug’s teeth as they chew, while wet food can stick to the teeth and contribute to plaque buildup.
- Tip: If your pug is currently eating wet food, consider gradually transitioning them to a diet that includes more dry kibble. Look for high-quality kibble that’s low in sugar and specifically designed to support dental health.
Dry Kibble vs. Wet Food
Dry kibble is generally better for your pug’s dental health than wet food. The hard texture of kibble helps scrape plaque off your pug’s teeth as they chew, while wet food can stick to the teeth and contribute to plaque buildup.
- Tip: If your pug is currently eating wet food, consider gradually transitioning them to a diet that includes more dry kibble. Look for high-quality kibble that’s low in sugar and specifically designed to support dental health.
Avoiding Sugary Treats
Many dog treats contain added sugars, which can contribute to plaque buildup and lead to cavities. While your pug may love sweet snacks, it’s important to limit sugary treats to protect their teeth.
- Tip: Opt for treats that are specifically designed for dental health, such as dental chews or natural, low-sugar treats like carrots or apple slices.
Foods That Naturally Clean Teeth
Certain foods can help clean your pug’s teeth naturally as they chew. Crunchy vegetables like carrots and celery, as well as certain fruits like apples, can help scrape away food particles and plaque while providing essential nutrients.
- Tip: Incorporate tooth-friendly foods into your pug’s diet by offering raw, crunchy veggies as snacks or mixing them into their regular meals.
Dental Diet Dog Food
Some brands of dog food are specifically formulated to support dental health. These foods are designed to reduce plaque and tartar buildup while promoting healthy gums. They typically contain larger kibble pieces that help clean your pug’s teeth as they chew.
- Tip: Talk to your vet about whether a dental-specific dog food might be beneficial for your pug, especially if they’re prone to dental issues.
The Importance of Hydration
Water is essential for your pug’s overall health, but it also plays a role in their dental hygiene. Proper hydration helps wash away food particles and bacteria in the mouth, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and gum disease.
- Tip: Always provide fresh, clean water for your pug and encourage regular drinking to help maintain their dental health.
When to See a Vet for Dental Problems in Pugs
Even with a diligent at-home dental care routine, there may come a time when your pug will need professional veterinary attention for dental issues. Dental problems can develop quickly in pugs due to their small mouths and overcrowded teeth, and early intervention is key to preventing more serious health complications.
Persistent Bad Breath
If your pug’s breath smells persistently bad, despite regular brushing and the use of dental chews, it could be a sign of a more serious underlying issue like gum disease or a tooth infection. While some degree of “doggy breath” is normal, chronic bad breath is often an indicator of plaque buildup or bacterial infections in the mouth.
- Tip: If your pug’s breath smells particularly foul, schedule a dental exam with your vet to rule out any serious issues like periodontal disease or infection.
Reluctance to Eat or Chew
If your pug suddenly becomes reluctant to eat or chew, especially when it comes to hard foods like kibble, it may be experiencing dental pain. Issues like tooth decay, loose teeth, or gum disease can make chewing uncomfortable or even painful for your pug, leading to a noticeable change in their eating habits.
- Tip: Monitor your pug’s behavior during meals. If they seem to be favoring one side of their mouth, dropping food, or avoiding eating altogether, consult your vet for a dental evaluation.
Swollen or Bleeding Gums
Swollen, red, or bleeding gums are often a sign of gum disease, which can progress to more serious issues if left untreated. Healthy gums should be pink, so if you notice any inflammation, bleeding, or sensitivity when brushing your pug’s teeth, it’s important to get them checked by a vet.
- Tip: Regular brushing can help prevent gum disease, but if you notice persistent gum problems, schedule a professional cleaning to address the issue before it worsens.
Drooling and Pawing at the Mouth
While pugs are known to drool occasionally, excessive drooling, especially when combined with pawing at the mouth, can be a sign of dental pain or discomfort. Drooling may indicate that your pug is dealing with a toothache, infection, or other oral issue.
- Tip: If your pug is drooling more than usual or seems to be pawing at its mouth frequently, it’s time for a vet visit to assess the situation.
Loose or Missing Teeth
Loose or Missing Teeth
Loose or missing teeth are serious signs that your pug’s dental health is compromised. Tooth loss can result from advanced gum disease or severe tooth decay, and it may require extractions or other dental procedures to prevent further complications.
- Tip: Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings can help catch loose teeth early. If your pug loses a tooth, it’s important to consult your vet to assess the overall condition of their teeth and gums.
Excessive Tartar and Plaque Buildup
If you notice that your pug’s teeth are coated in a yellow or brown layer of tartar, it’s a sign that professional cleaning is needed. Tartar buildup can’t be removed with at-home brushing and requires professional scaling to prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
"If your pug’s bad breath makes you want to keep your distance, it might be time for a trip to the vet!"
Budgeting for Pug Dental Care
Dental care for pugs is essential, but it can also become costly, especially if your pug needs frequent professional cleanings or dental treatments. It’s important to plan and budget for both routine at-home care and regular veterinary check-ups to keep your pug’s teeth healthy and prevent expensive dental procedures down the line.
At-Home Dental Care Costs
Maintaining your pug’s dental health at home doesn’t have to break the bank, but there are some recurring costs involved. You’ll need to purchase toothbrushes, dog-safe toothpaste, dental chews, and possibly dental wipes. Here’s a breakdown of the average monthly cost for at-home care:
- Toothbrush and Toothpaste: Dog-specific toothbrushes and toothpaste generally cost between $10-$20 and can last a couple of months.
- Dental Chews: These can range from $10-$30 per month, depending on the brand and size of the pack.
- Dental Wipes: If you prefer wipes to brushing, a month’s supply typically costs around $10-$15.
Professional Dental Cleanings
Most veterinarians recommend professional cleanings for pugs at least once a year, but some dogs may require more frequent cleanings depending on their dental health. The cost of a professional cleaning can vary based on location, the severity of tartar buildup, and whether any extractions or additional procedures are needed.
- Cost of Professional Cleaning: A basic cleaning typically costs between $200-$800, depending on the level of care required. If extractions or X-rays are necessary, the cost may be higher.
- Tip: Ask your vet about dental plans or packages that may offer discounted rates for regular cleanings or preventative care.
Budgeting for Emergencies
Even with regular care, unexpected dental issues can arise, and it’s important to be prepared for emergency costs. Tooth extractions, treatment for infections, or other urgent dental procedures can range from $500-$1500 depending on the severity of the issue.
- Tip: Consider setting aside a small emergency fund or investing in pet insurance that covers dental procedures to help offset any surprise costs.
Preventive Measures to Save Money
Investing in daily brushing and dental chews can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for costly professional cleanings or dental surgeries. Prevention is the key to avoiding expensive procedures, so regular at-home care is an investment in your pug’s health and your wallet.
- Tip: A good balance of daily brushing, dental chews, and an annual vet check-up can significantly reduce the risk of expensive dental problems.
Pet Insurance for Dental Care
Some pet insurance plans cover dental procedures, including cleanings and extractions. It’s important to review your insurance policy carefully to see if dental care is included and what types of treatments are covered.
How to Make Dental Care Fun for Your Pug
Pugs aren’t always the most cooperative when it comes to dental care. However, you can turn what might seem like a tedious task into a fun experience for both you and your pug. By using positive reinforcement, toys, and creative approaches, dental care can become something your pug looks forward to instead of something they dread.
Start Slowly and Build Confidence
For pugs that are new to dental care, it’s important to start slowly and allow them to get comfortable with the process. Begin by letting your pug sniff and lick the toothbrush and toothpaste to get used to the texture and taste before you start brushing.
- Tip: Use a flavored dog toothpaste (like peanut butter or chicken flavor) to make the experience more enjoyable. Your pug will associate the taste with something positive, making the process smoother.
Use Toys and Treats for Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is key to getting your pug on board with dental care. Incorporate treats and toys during and after brushing sessions to reward your pug for good behavior. This not only keeps them engaged but also reinforces the idea that dental care is something positive.
- Tip: After each brushing session, give your pug a dental chew or toy to play with as a reward. This doubles as a fun activity and helps clean their teeth further.
Turn Brushing Into a Game
If your pug is particularly resistant to brushing, try turning the activity into a game. Play with their favorite toy or engage in a game of tug-of-war before brushing their teeth. This helps them release some energy and feel more relaxed when it’s time for dental care.
- Tip: Use a toy as a distraction while you gently introduce the toothbrush. Over time, they’ll become more tolerant of brushing sessions.
Create a Routine Your Pug Will Love
Consistency is key when it comes to dental care. Create a routine that your pug can anticipate and look forward to. Whether it’s brushing their teeth after meals or during a quiet time of day, consistency helps your pug feel more comfortable with the process.
- Tip: Combine dental care with other positive activities, like going for a walk or receiving belly rubs afterward. This helps build a routine that your pug will enjoy.
Incorporate Dental Toys into Playtime
Dental toys, such as KONG chews or Nylabones, can be incorporated into playtime to naturally clean your pug’s teeth. These toys are designed to scrape away plaque and tartar while your pug chews, making them a fun and easy way to supplement brushing.
- Tip: Rotate different dental toys to keep your pug interested. Variety can make playtime more engaging and effective for their dental health.
FAQs About Pug Dental Care
Daily brushing is ideal for keeping your pug’s teeth clean and preventing plaque buildup. However, even brushing three to four times a week can significantly reduce the risk of gum disease and other dental issues.
Always use dog-specific toothpaste that’s safe for your pug to ingest. Flavors like peanut butter or chicken are great for making the experience more enjoyable. Human toothpaste should never be used, as it contains ingredients that can be harmful to dogs.
Signs of dental issues in pugs include persistent bad breath, reluctance to eat, red or bleeding gums, drooling, and loose or missing teeth. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult your vet for a dental examination.
Dental chews are a great supplement to regular brushing, but they shouldn’t replace brushing altogether. They can help reduce plaque and freshen breath, but brushing is still necessary to keep your pug’s teeth and gums in top condition.
It’s best to use a toothbrush designed for dogs, as they’re softer and better suited for your pug’s small, sensitive mouth. Finger toothbrushes are also a great option for dogs that are resistant to traditional brushes.
Some drooling during brushing is normal, especially if your pug enjoys the taste of the toothpaste. However, excessive drooling or pawing at the mouth could be a sign of dental pain or discomfort, which should be checked by a vet.
If your pug is resistant to brushing, try introducing it slowly and using treats or toys to make the experience more enjoyable. You can also use dental wipes or chews as an alternative if brushing is too stressful for your pug.
It’s important to avoid giving your pug hard bones, as they can crack teeth or cause choking hazards. Instead, opt for dental-specific chews or toys that are safe for small breeds like pugs.
Veterinarians typically recommend a professional dental cleaning once a year for pugs, but some dogs may require more frequent cleanings based on their dental health.
Yes! Coconut oil, raw carrots, and parsley are great natural remedies that can help reduce plaque and freshen breath. These can be used in addition to brushing and dental chews.
