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Preparing Your Puppy for a Dental Exam

also see Dog Gum 

also see Dog Toothpaste 

also see Puppy Teeth

Before you take your puppy for his first dental exam, you should make sure he is prepared by imitating the exam process at home.  Start Early and Repeat Often - the most important thing to remember when preparing your puppy for a dental exam is to start as soon as you get your puppy. Repeat the process daily. Comfort Your Puppy - speak to your puppy throughout the preparation process. Use a soothing tone of voice; offer comfort and praise.

Step One: Handling Your Puppy's Head

The first step toward preparing your puppy for a dental exam is to acclimate your puppy to having his head handled. Rub your puppy's head gently but firmly, from the tip of his snout to the back of his head. Place your hands on the top and bottom of your puppy's head, then gently move your puppy's head back and forth.

Step Two: Handling Your Puppy's Mouth

The next step in preparing your puppy for his first dental exam is to begin handling his mouth. Gently lift your puppy's lips with your fingers.

Step Three: Opening Your Puppy's Mouth

Once your puppy is comfortable with having his lips touched, you can begin to gently open his mouth. Squeeze the corners of your puppy's mouth gently with one hand. As your puppy becomes comfortable with this, you can begin to gently hold your puppy's mouth open with both hands.

Reward Your Puppy

When preparing your puppy for a dental exam, remember to reward him after each step of the process. Offer him words of praise and a tasty treat.

also see Canine Dental Cleaning: A 5 Step Program

also see Dog Teeth Cleaning Blunders To Avoid

also see Dog Tartar Removal and Prevention Tips

also see Creating Your Dog Dental Care Program