Just like anything new that you are introducing to you dog, you can train your Beagle to become used to having his teeth cleaned. With a quality 3-sided toothbrush and an effective paste that has the proper cleaning properties, just a few minutes per day is needed for good oral hygiene.
First 2 Weeks
During the first 2 weeks, you will simply want your Beagle to become used to having his teeth touched and his mouth manipulated. This is a very important step. Once you train your dog to sit still and behave while you do this, actually brushing the teeth with paste will be a lot easier. Here are some tips to remember:
- Do this every day. Dogs that are given training randomly have a difficult time learning something new
- Choose 1 time of the day in which it will be "Tooth Cleaning Time". Dogs who have a schedule do much better, as well. It does not matter if you choose 8 AM, 12 Noon or 8 PM...however once you choose a time, so stick with it.
During this beginning phase, your goal is to have your Beagle sit nicely while his or her teeth are brushed. Therefore, you will want to:
- Choose a quiet place where you will not be disturbed
- Have your Beagle sit
- Gently rub your fingers all across your dog's teeth
You will not be using any toothpaste right now. Simply spend 5 to 10 minutes rubbing each tooth (and don't forget those back ones).
While you are doing this, talk to your Beagle soothingly and with a proud tone. When done, be sure to give great praise and a tasty dog treat. While your dog may at first try to run away, patience and consistency will train him or her to sit for you during this time.
Tip:
If your Beagle does run, do not "give chase". Your dog will see this as a game...he runs....you run after him... what fun! Just stay calm, slowly walk up to him , pick him up if you must, bring him back to the designated area and begin again.
You will find that with young puppies, cradling them in your lap may prove work better than asking them to sit for you. Once your Beagle has been trained to stay with you for dental care, you can always move up to having him sit independently.