Dental health represents an important part of your dog’s life. Thanks to those tiny sharp blades, our pets eat, explore the world, and hunt prey. Therefore, we need to help them stay healthy, strong, and clean. Shiba Inu’s teeth are susceptible to many oral diseases that can lead to even complete tooth loss. That’s why the regular dental check is over needed as well as year-round care at home.
What do you need to know about Shiba Inu’s teeth?
Every puppy starts to get its first teeth about 20 days after birth, while permanent teeth dogs start to develop when they’re approximately 3 months old. Our furry friends get 42 teeth in total that will grow by the 6th or 7th month. During a painful teething phase, we have to provide our pooches with different chew toys that will help them release the pain. For example, you can place a rubber toy in the fridge to cool off and then give it to your Shiba to play with. This tip will work as a cold compress to your dog’s swollen and red gums.
How do Shiba Inu’s teeth grow?
The upper incisors begin to grow when a puppy is approximately 20 days old. On the other hand, premolars grow around 30 days after birth, while 28 milk teeth are fully grown 45 days after birth.
Permanent dog teeth begin to replace around 100 days after birth. Incisors change first, and then go premolars and molars.
How to keep your Shiba Inu’s teeth healthy?
Regular tooth brushing
Just like humans, our dogs also need to get regular tooth brushing. It’s one of the best ways to prevent dental issues such as plaque, tartar, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Although most dogs don’t get thrilled by the tooth brushing routine, with a little positive training, your Shiba will get used to it too.
The key is to start practicing this routine during puppyhood. Young puppies easier accept new routines, habits, and lessons. Therefore, start slowly and don’t push your dog to get used to it quickly because it can only slow down the process.
Let your Shiba Inu first ‘have a meeting’ with his toothbrush. After your dog sniffs it, slowly approach his mouth and let him sniff and lick it again. Don’t forget to reward him with treats and praise words because those are key elements for creating a positive association with an activity.
If your Shiba mastered this lesson, then you can start with the second one that includes adding dog toothpaste. Put a small piece of dog toothpaste on a brush and let your dog lick and sniff it. We recommend you choose toothpaste with a taste that will attract his attention and make the process of brushing more pleasant.
The third step includes the brushing process. Don’t expect that the lesson will be successful from the first try. Therefore, take baby steps and repeat this lesson daily until your Shiba completely masters it.
Using human toothpaste is strictly forbidden because they contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs.
Use dental chew treats
If you have tried everything to get your dog used to this routine and he still doesn’t feel completely relaxed, then using dental treats will definitely be a better choice. Dental treats help your dog scrape off tartar and plaque and represent the easiest way to keep your Shiba Inu’s teeth healthy. However, be careful when choosing the right one for your pet because they often contain too many additives and artificial flavors.
Feed your dog with a high-quality diet
Choosing a well-balanced and quality diet for your Shiba Inu is highly important. By eating healthy and natural ingredients, your dog will have stronger teeth and will be of better health. Poor-quality food such as grains, animal by-products, and artificial ingredients affect tartar and plaque build-up on the dog’s teeth. Depending on your Shiba Inu’s age, your vet should recommend you the type of diet and how much proteins will satisfy your pet’s needs.
Allow your dog to play with durable rubber toys
Besides they’ll keep your dog entertained and occupied, Shiba Inu toys will leave a beneficial effect on your dog’s teeth. Search for rubber toys with pins and nodules that will work as toothbrushes to remove any debris and stubborn plaque.
Add apple cider vinegar
One of the best natural products that help in maintaining your dog’s teeth healthy is apple cider vinegar. The only thing you have to do is to add a tablespoon of this magical ingredient to your dog’s bowls of water. In that way, you’ll protect your dog’s teeth and mouth from different bacteria, and will help his coat look smooth and shiny.
