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We love our dogs. We shower them with affection, spoil them with toys, and make sure they get plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. But despite our best efforts, there’s one area of their care that often gets overlooked – dog dental care.
Here’s the hard truth: by neglecting our dogs’ dental hygiene, we may be putting their health at serious risk. I’ll be the first to admit that I don’t brush Rocket’s teeth as often as I should. And I’m not alone – studies show that 95% of pet owners don’t brush their dog’s teeth regularly.
Over time, plaque and tartar build-up can lead to painful infections that don’t just affect the mouth – they can spread to vital organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys. Left untreated, these infections can become incredibly painful and even life-threatening. You can read more about this HERE.
The good news? It’s never too late to start. With a little effort and consistency, you can help protect your dog’s health and ensure they stay happy, healthy, and pain-free for years to come.
Proper dog dental care can have a significant impact on your dog's overall health.
I know how lucky I am to have Rocket. His personality is truly one of a kind – a perfect balance of calm and adventurous. He’s as easygoing as a yoga instructor yet as adaptable as a seasoned traveler. If I decide to hike to the top of a mountain, he’s right there with me, eager and enthusiastic. But if I spend the day as a couch potato, he’s more than happy to lounge beside me. Even bath time is effortless – he simply stands in the tub without protest.
The same goes for brushing his teeth. When he was a puppy, I made a point of getting him comfortable with having his mouth handled. I would gently rub his gums and teeth with gauze wrapped around my finger, allowing him to adjust to the sensation. Over time, this became just another part of our routine. Now, years later, that early training has paid off – he still lets me brush his teeth without hesitation.
I truly believe that the key to success with brushing is to start young and be consistent. The earlier you introduce it, the more natural it will feel for your dog as they grow. However, I also understand that not everyone starts with a puppy. If you’ve adopted an older dog who isn’t used to dental care, don’t worry – it’s still entirely possible to make brushing a positive experience.
The key to successful dog dental care is patience and persistence. Start slowly, allowing your dog to become comfortable with having their mouth touched. Let them lick the toothpaste off your finger before gradually introducing a brush or gauze. Keep sessions short and always follow up with praise and a reward. Over time, with consistency, even a dog who has never had their teeth brushed can learn to tolerate – and even enjoy the process. It’s never too late to start good dog dental care habits!
How do we properly brush our dog’s teeth?
1. A Calm Pup is A Happy Pup.
Before brushing your dog’s teeth, take them for a nice walk or play a game of fetch in the backyard. A little exercise helps burn off excess energy, making it easier for them to stay calm and still during the brushing process.
A tired dog is a more relaxed dog, which means they’ll be less likely to squirm or resist when you start handling their mouth. In addition to physical exercise, you can also offer some calming petting or a gentle massage before brushing to help them settle down even more. Setting the right mood can make the experience smoother and more enjoyable for both you and your dog!
The calmer your dog feels the more successful the brushing will be.
2. Start Slow.
Start by helping your dog get comfortable with having their mouth touched. As you pet them, gently introduce your fingers into their mouth, lightly rubbing their gums and teeth. Be sure to offer plenty of praise when you're done to create a positive association.
If you have a puppy, it’s best to begin this process early. A puppy that grows accustomed to having their mouth handled will be much more tolerant of dental care as they get older. Once your dog is comfortable with your fingers, you can wrap a piece of gauze around your finger and gently rub their teeth. Take it slow and only introduce the gauze when they’re ready to keep the experience stress-free.
3. Pick Your Toothpaste.
Canine toothpaste, that is! Never use human toothpaste on your dog, as it can be toxic. Instead, choose a toothpaste specifically made for dogs, which you can find at most pet stores. Here’s my favorite – Rocket absolutely LOVES the flavor!
Start by putting a small dab on your finger and letting your dog smell it. Allow them to lick it to get familiar with the taste. Then, gently rub their teeth in a circular motion using just your finger. As mentioned earlier, take it slow—this process should be gradual to help your dog feel comfortable. Repeat for a few days before introducing a toothbrush. Always praise your dog and reward them with a treat to make it a positive experience!
4. Find The Right Toothbrush.
Not all toothbrushes are created equal, and some dog owners prefer alternatives to traditional brushes. Personally, I’m a big fan of using a piece of gauze wrapped around my finger – a method my vet has always recommended. This can be especially helpful for smaller dogs or those who are hesitant about toothbrushes, as it allows for gentle, controlled cleaning.
When choosing a toothbrush, remember that human toothbrushes aren’t suitable for dogs. Dog-specific toothbrushes are designed with softer, angled bristles to better reach their teeth and gums without causing discomfort. Finger brushes are another great option, offering a middle ground between a traditional brush and gauze. No matter which method you choose, consistency is key to keeping your dog’s teeth clean and healthy!
READ MORE: The 4 Best Vet Recommended Dog Dental Chews
5. Begin Brushing.
Find a comfortable position for both you and your dog. Avoid holding them down or standing over them. Instead, try sitting next to or in front of them to create a more relaxed experience. Apply a small amount of toothpaste to the brush and let your dog lick it to get used to the taste and feel of the bristles.
Gently place the toothbrush in your dog’s mouth at a 45-degree angle against the teeth. This not only helps clean the teeth but also gently massages the gum line. Brush in small circles, reaching the top and bottom of both sides of the mouth. Work on a few teeth at a time and gradually move along.
If your dog starts to feel anxious or uncomfortable, take a break and try again later. Patience is key, so go slow and make it a positive experience.
6. Stay Positive.
Talk to your dog throughout the process. Keep your voice calm and scratch your pup's head. When you are finished, praise your dog and reward them with a treat. I like to give Rocket training treats because they are the perfect size for him.
7. Stick with Dry Food.
A high-quality, dry kibble is generally better for your dog’s dental health than soft food, as its crunchy texture helps reduce plaque buildup. In contrast, soft food is more likely to stick to your dog’s teeth, potentially leading to decay if not properly managed. That said, fresh, human-grade options like PetPlate provide excellent nutrition, and Rocket enjoys this as part of his diet. To keep your dog’s teeth healthy, regular brushing is essential, especially if they eat soft or fresh food. As always, consult your vet for personalized dietary recommendations to ensure your dog’s overall health.
READ MORE: The Best Dog Food For A Long And Healthy Life
8. Schedule a Professional Cleaning.
You should have your dog’s teeth professionally cleaned at least once per year. Even if you are able to brush your dog’s teeth regularly, the vet can access areas you may not be able to. Your vet will examine your dog’s mouth and look for problems. This procedure is a bit costly but can save your dog from painful complications. Every time you visit the vet, have them look at their teeth. They will tell you how often your dog should have a professional cleaning.
Remember
This is a marathon, not a sprint. Go slow and practice dog dental care weekly. Over time, this can become an enjoyable experience for both of you – and it can even be a lifesaver.
Do you brush your dog's teeth? What are is your technique? Let us know in the comments below.
CONGRATULATIONS!!! Congratulations on your bein’ a finalist in the Nose-to-Nose Awards. purrs
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I find an electric toothbrush works best , i use oral b with small head and liver treats after. We do it every night
This is a great suggestion. I have never used an electric toothbrush on Rocket before. I will have to give it a try although I think he will prefer the gauze. The electric toothbrush must do a great job cleaning!