To prevent gum disease and tooth decay, make puppy tooth care an important part of your dog's grooming routine. Brush your pup's teeth with a small toothbrush and doggie toothpaste (don't use human toothpaste). Once or twice a week is usually sufficient, although daily brushing is best, especially as your pup grows older. The abrasive chewing action that comes from eating hard biscuits and gnawing on dental chew toys will help reduce tartar buildup.

Begin brushing when your puppy is young. You can start by gently wiping the pup's teeth with a small pad of gauze. Work up to using a toothbrush. Pet-supply stores also carry finger brushes (fit over the tip of your finger).

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