Dental care is one of the most proactive things a Bernese owner can do to keep her dog healthy. Plaque and tartar can lead to periodontal disease, and bacteria in the mouth resulting from this condition can move through the bloodstream and contribute to heart, liver, and kidney disease.Veterinarians report that by the time a dog is three or four years old, he’ll have some evidence of dental disease. He could have a buildup of tartar, especially on the rear molars, or his gums could be inflamed and begin to recede from the base of his teeth. Dogs crack their teeth when they chew on marrow bones, sticks, or rocks. Oral abscesses can require a root canal if the infection isn’t caught early. Dogs can even get splinters in their gums when they play tug-of-war with sticks.

Daily brushing and oral inspections can head off major problems down the road, as well as help improve your Bernese Mountain Dog’s overall health.

Brushing the Teeth

Canine-specific toothpaste comes flavored to make it more palatable to dogs. Never use human-grade toothpaste, as some of the chemicals can make a dog nauseated or ill.

Begin slowly to acclimate your dog to the toothpaste. Put a tiny amount on your fingertip and let him lick it. Then put a dab on either a canine toothbrush or on a fingertip brush, which you slide over the end of your index finger. Let the dog lick the brush. Next, put another small amount of paste on the brush and begin at the dog’s back molars.

If he won’t let you put the brush on more than one tooth, tell him how brave he is and put the supplies away. He will work the toothpaste around in his mouth and swallow. The next day, try again. Over a week or two, your dog should allow you to brush all of his teeth. If he objects to the toothbrush, then switch to the fingertip brush.

Some canine toys and treats claim to help keep a dog’s teeth healthy. Some of the hype is marketing, but some items actually can maintain your Bernese’s oral health. Raw meaty soup bones are hard enough that a dog can chew on the bone for days, and in the process, reduce any deposits on his teeth. Hard knobby plastic toys, such as those made by Nylabone, can also help, but you should always supervise your Bernese while he’s chewing on them.