Any suggestions for brushing my Chihuahua's teeth?

Question

I've tried doing it like they say on the back of the toothpaste - let him l**k the toothpaste off of my finger, let him l**k it off of the brush, and then slowly brush his teeth. He likes the taste of the toothpaste, and I can normally get his front teeth, but he hates me messing with his mouth and getting to his back teeth. He also thinks that the toothpaste container and toothbrush are chew toys and I'm not sure what to do about that. I don't want to tell him "bad" when he chews on them because I don't want him to be afraid of them, but I don't want him to think that it is playtime either because then I can't brush his teeth. Any suggestions would be great, thanks!

Answer 1

Use the "toothbrush" that fits on the end of your finger. You can buy the same thing in the baby section of your local Walmart/Target. The dog is MUCH less likely to chew on it, since it is your finger.

However, it's still good to get the toothpaste in there, even if there is no actual brushing, since the dog toothpaste is enzymatic. Meaning, in really broad strokes, that it's the enzymes in the paste that actually can eat away at build ups on the teeth.

Answer 2

I hope when you are referring to toothpaste you mean "pet friendly dog toothpaste" Human toothpaste is toxic to dogs.  Practice makes perfect you are just going to have to be consistent with him.  Just practice opening his mouth without the toothbrush until he is willing to do it when you want him too.  Then re-introduce the toothbrush.  

Answer 3

wait until he is really tired before you start. it's much easier to clean a dog's teeth when they aren't playful. If he is a chewer get him some chew treats (like rawhide or uncooked bones) they will clean his teeth for you. I have also seen finger tooth brushes dogs that dont bite often will let you brush their teeth with your fingertips. (these are a bit like thimbles with bristles.)