When your dog is older, he might surprise you by brushing his own teeth one day.

He knows that brushing his teeth will keep his mouth healthy and his breath fresh.

But not all dogs can brush their own teeth. They need your help.

1. Ask your parents to check your dog's teeth every month.
2. Ask your parents to brush your dog's teeth with a toothbrush and special toothpaste for dogs.

1. Don't use a toothbrush at first. Dip your finger in something good like soup and then rub your finger along his teeth. Rub it against his gums. Only do this for a minute or two. Then stop and praise your dog.

2. Do this every day or two until your pup is comfortable with you touching his mouth and teeth.

3. Later, you can wrap a piece of gauze around your finger to make it feel a little different and rub that against his teeth. After awhile, you will feel comfortable enough to put a toothbrush into your dog's mouth.

You can use a soft toothbrush made for people or a special one made for dogs. Both will work.

You should buy special toothpaste for dogs. Don't use people toothpaste because it can upset your dog's tummy. Buy dog toothpaste at the pet store or from your vet.