You can give your dog a daily dental stick to help keep his mouth and teeth clean, but you should also brush your Goldendoodle’s teeth as well.

Veterinary studies show that by the age of three, 80% of dogs exhibit signs of gum disease. Symptoms include yellow and brown build-up of tartar along the gum line, red inflamed gums and persistent bad breath.

It shouldn’t be a chore, but a pleasant experience for both of you. Take things slowly in the beginning, give him lots of praise and many dogs will start looking forward to teeth brushing sessions. Use a pet toothpaste (the human variety can upset a dog’s stomach). Many have flavors which your dog will find tasty.

One of the real benefits comes from the actual action of the brush on the teeth. Various brushes, sponges and pads are available; the choice depends on factors such as the health of your dog’s gums, the size of his mouth and how good you are at teeth cleaning!

Get your Goldendoodle used to the toothpaste by letting him lick some off your finger. If he doesn’t like the flavor, try a different one. Continue this until he looks forward to licking the paste – it might be instant or it might take days. Put a small amount on your finger and gently rub it on one of the big canine teeth at the front of his mouth.

Then get him used to the toothbrush or dental sponge you will be using, praise him when he licks it – do this for several days. The next step is to actually start brushing. Talk to your Goldendoodle in an encouraging way and praise him when you’re finished.

Lift his upper lip gently and place the brush at a 45 angle to the gum line. Gently move the brush backwards and forwards. Start just with his front teeth and then gradually do few more. You don’t need to brush the inside of his teeth as his tongue keeps them relatively free of plaque.

Goldendoodles love games and, with a bit of encouragement and patience, it can become a fun task for both of you. There are various videos on YouTube which demonstrate how to clean a dog’s teeth. Aim to clean your Goldendoodle’s teeth once a week.