It's no secret that caring for your pup's oral hygiene is essential for their overall health and wellbeing. Unfortunately, many commercial mouthwashes can be expensive and contain harsh chemicals that can make your pup uncomfortable or even trigger an allergic reaction. Thankfully, there's a simple and inexpensive solution! Making your own homemade dog mouthwash is easy and can help keep your pup's breath fresh and their mouth clean.
Why Make Homemade Dog Mouthwash?
Making your own homemade dog mouthwash has several advantages. For starters, it's much more affordable than store-bought mouthwash. Additionally, you don't have to worry about the harsh chemicals and additives that can be found in many commercial products. Most importantly, homemade dog mouthwash is gentle on your pup's gums, teeth, and tongue and can help prevent bad breath, tartar build-up, and other oral health issues.
Ingredients for Homemade Dog Mouthwash
There are several ingredients you'll need to make your own homemade dog mouthwash. The most important one is hydrogen peroxide, which has antibacterial and antifungal properties and helps to keep your pup's mouth clean. You'll also need baking soda, which helps to neutralize odors, and witch hazel, which has antiseptic and astringent properties. Finally, you'll need liquid glycerin, which helps to keep your pup's mouth moist and soothe their gums.
Directions for Homemade Dog Mouthwash
Once you have all of your ingredients, making your own homemade dog mouthwash is easy. Simply mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and witch hazel in a bowl. Then, add one tablespoon of liquid glycerin and stir until everything is combined. Transfer the mixture to a clean container and store in a cool, dry place. To use, simply put a small amount of the mixture on your pup's tongue and brush their teeth with it. Then, rinse their mouth with warm water and dry their chin with a clean cloth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Benefits of Making Homemade Dog Mouthwash?
Making your own homemade dog mouthwash is much more affordable than store-bought products, and it's also free of harsh chemicals and additives. Additionally, it's gentle on your pup's gums, teeth, and tongue and helps to keep their breath fresh and their mouth clean.
What Ingredients Do I Need to Make Homemade Dog Mouthwash?
The ingredients you'll need to make your own homemade dog mouthwash are hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, witch hazel, and liquid glycerin.
How Do I Use Homemade Dog Mouthwash?
To use the homemade dog mouthwash, simply put a small amount of the mixture on your pup's tongue and brush their teeth with it. Then, rinse their mouth with warm water and dry their chin with a clean cloth.
Can I Make a Big Batch of Homemade Dog Mouthwash?
Yes, you can make a big batch of homemade dog mouthwash by simply doubling or tripling the recipe. Just make sure to store the mixture in a clean, airtight container in a cool, dry place.
How Often Should I Use Homemade Dog Mouthwash?
It's best to use homemade dog mouthwash on a regular basis, at least once a week or as needed. Additionally, it's important to brush your pup's teeth on a regular basis to ensure their overall oral health.
Are There Any Side Effects of Using Homemade Dog Mouthwash?
No, there are no known side effects of using homemade dog mouthwash. However, if your pup has a known allergy to any of the ingredients, it's best to consult with your veterinarian before using it.
Can I Use Homemade Dog Mouthwash on My Cat?
No, it's not recommended to use homemade dog mouthwash on cats. Cats have very sensitive mouths and can have adverse reactions to some of the ingredients in the mouthwash.
What Are Some Alternatives to Homemade Dog Mouthwash?
If you don't want to make your own homemade dog mouthwash, there are several store-bought options available. There are also natural mouthwashes made with botanical ingredients that are safe and effective for your pup.
Is Homemade Dog Mouthwash Safe for Puppies?
Yes, homemade dog mouthwash is generally safe for puppies. However, it's always best to consult with your veterinarian before using any type of mouthwash on your pup.