Like many small breeds, Cavoodles can be prone to dental crowding and plaque build-up, making a proactive dental care routine well worth the effort.
Brushing Your Cavoodle's Teeth
Ideally, brush your Cavoodle's teeth several times a week using a dog-specific toothpaste (never human toothpaste, which can contain xylitol, toxic to dogs) and a soft pet toothbrush or finger brush.
Starting Early
Introduce tooth brushing gradually as a puppy, starting with simply touching the mouth and gums, then progressing to a taste of dog toothpaste, before introducing the brush itself - this builds a positive association rather than a wrestling match later.
Dental Chews and Diet
Vet-approved dental chews and appropriately textured kibble can help reduce plaque build-up between brushings, though they don't replace regular brushing entirely.
Signs of Dental Problems
Bad breath beyond normal puppy breath, red or bleeding gums, visible tartar build-up, reluctance to chew, or pawing at the mouth are all worth mentioning to your vet.
Professional Dental Checks
Your vet will check dental health at routine visits and may recommend a professional dental clean under anaesthetic if tartar build-up becomes significant - typically more relevant from middle age onwards with good home care.
