Smelly canine breath can be a sign of more serious health problems, including plaque buildup and dental disease, and the bacteria that cause it can lead to heart and kidney illnesses. Fortunately, these negative consequences are easily prevented by following these five tips from the pet dental care experts at Crescent Springs Animal Hospital of Crescent Springs, KY: 

• Introduce Dental Hygiene At A Young Age: Most dogs do not enjoy having someone else's fingers in their mouth. But in order to brush their teeth, that's exactly what you have to do. The younger your pup is when you start cleaning their teeth, the easier the adjustment process will be. 
• Start Slowly: Introduce the concept of putting your fingers in the pooch's mouth gradually. If you attempt a deep clean on the first day, the poor guy will end up traumatized. A sneaky trick is smearing a treat like peanut butter on your finger to help him relax. Also, manipulate his muzzle a bit—put your hands on his muzzle and jaw so he gets used to the sensation. Once that stage has been achieved, push his lips aside and rub some toothpaste on the visible teeth. Don't aim for the whole mouth—simply add a few more teeth to the process each day.
• Give A Dog A Bone: Dogs love to gnaw, but did you know that chewing actually helps scrape off plaque buildup? Invest in some rawhide or knucklebones if you prefer natural choices, and if not, buy a flexible fake bone or chew toy. Although this will not save you from the task of brushing, chewing on a bone will help supplement those deeper cleanings.
• Get Dog-Friendly Supplies: Your dog should have their teeth brushed three to four times per week. Purchasing a separate brush and toothpaste for him is a necessity. The brush should be soft and long enough to reach the back teeth. Pet stores offer canine versions that slip onto your finger. Also, it's vital to avoid human toothpaste; dogs can't spit, so swallowing those chemicals can be dangerous. Look for a pet dental care version with a poultry or seafood flavor.

For those around Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, Crescent Springs Animal Hospital fulfills all your pet health needs, from spaying and neutering to microchipping. In pet dental care, they offer a comfortable environment for pets of all types. Visit their website, or call them at (859) 331-6608 for more information.