Bichon frise dogs need to have their teeth cleaned daily, or every few days, to ensure that there teeth and gums remain strong and healthy. While there are different foods, treats and chew toys you can provide your pet to help prevent plaque buildup, the best care comes from a toothbrush.

Brushing your bichon frise dogs teeth is a fairly easy process that your pooch will tolerate if you familiarize him with it when he is a puppy. Therefore, when you purchase your pet's grooming supplies, make sure a dog toothbrush and flavored toothpaste are among the items you obtain. Keep in mind, it is essential that you use dental paste made for dogs because human toothpastes can upset your bichon's stomach. Furthermore, an animal dental brush or finger brush has very soft bristles so it is gentle on their gums.

If you have never brushed your bichon frise's teeth before, here are the steps to follow to get the job done:

Step 1 - Choose a time that is convenient for you and when your bichon dog is relaxed. Take him to a quiet area of your home where you will not be disturbed.

Step 2 - Familiarize bichon frise dogs with the process before introducing the toothbrush. Gently stroke the outside of either cheek with your fingers. Allow your dog to taste the paste you will be using by putting a dab on your finger. Part their cheeks and gently move your finger along the sides of their teeth and gums to acquaint them with the sensation of something running over their teeth.

Step 3 - Introduce the toothbrush and take it slow. Once you have your third dental care session with your pooch, place a tiny drop of toothpaste on the brush, expose your pet's teeth, and brush slowly in a circular motion. Only clean two teeth the first time, which will allow him to grow accustomed to the experience.

Step 4 - Build up to a full brushing. Increase the number of teeth your brush with each session, until you are cleaning their full mouth. Make sure to pay close attention to back molars where there is a greater risk for plaque and tarter to accumulate.

Step 5 - Keep sessions short. Bichon frise dogs have limited patience, especially when it comes to dental cleaning. Therefore, try to have their full mouth cleaned in a few minutes, or only brush half their teeth per session. That being said, always stop before they become fussy. If you wait until they begin to fuss, and then cease brushing, you'll only give them the idea that when they protest you will relent, making the process more difficult as time goes on. By keeping cleanings short and gentle, you won't have any resistance from your pooch, and the experience can be enjoyable for you both.