Dog Dental Care: Brushing Your Dog’s Teeth

Dental care is a vital aspect of your dog’s health. Tooth brushing prevents gum disease, bad breath, tooth loss and even systemic infections. American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) more than 80% of dogs have dental disease by age 3.

Plaque quickly accumulates on your dog’s teeth, and if it is not brushed off, it hardens into tartar, which can inflame, hurt and eventually damage them for good. Brushing is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect your dog’s overall.health and their teeth.

Brushing gets rid of plaque before it hardens into tartar. Tartar causes gingivitis, periodontitis, tooth loss and bacterial infections that can travel to the heart, liver and kidneys. Many dental diseases have a slow and silent onset, but regular brushing allows you to notice the signs early.

Dogs do not clean their teeth as they were meant to, and chewing on toys or kibble can’t reach sticky buildup. Like humans, canine have a consistent routine concerning dental hygiene.

“Periodontal disease is the most preventable condition in dogs, but brushing is often neglected,” explains Dr. Marlena Lopez, DVM.

What Happens If You Don’t Brush Your Dog’s Teeth?

Without brushing:

❌ Plaque accumulates and creates red, inflamed gums.
❌ Tartar builds up, causing infection and loss of teeth.
❌ Painful chewing while playing.
❌ Bacteria leaks into the blood, raising the risk of heart and kidney problems.

Brushing a few times a week can move the needle significantly on these risks as well as prevent costly dental procedures under anesthesia.

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Brushing daily is best, brushing 3 to 4 times a week is sufficient if done consistently. Plaque starts to form within 24-48 hours, so missing several days gives bacteria time to reproduce and calcify. Daily brushing is highly recommended for dogs who are at high risk of developing dental disease, particularly small breeds or older dogs.

As you brush, you can also look for signs of bad breath, gum changes, tartar or sensitivity and use the time to reinforce a good behavior with rewards and praise. And the more often you do it, the easier it is for both you and your dog.

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What’s the Best Time of Day to Brush a Dog’s Teeth?

• The ideal time of day is after some exercise or before bed, when your dog is relaxed.
• Give yourself a moment without distraction and noise.
• Not brushing immediately after meals to prevent gum irritation.

Consistency is key. Brushing your dog at the same time every day helps them create a routine, and leash brushing with your dog gives them something else to associate with a calm, positive event.

You don’t need a fancy setup, you just need a safe, vet-recommended tools.

Dog Dental Care Essentials at Home:

• Dog toothbrush – Soft bristles and long handle, or finger-style brush.
• Dog-friendly toothpaste – Enzymatic, nontoxic, pet-friendly flavor.
• Towel or mat – Keeps your dog safe while brushing.
• Rewarding – Assists in forming the habit.
• Dental rinse (optional) – For days when brushing isn’t possible.

“Even small efforts do make a big difference. “The goal is consistency, not perfection,” Dr. Ross Bernstein, DVM.

What Toothbrush and Toothpaste Are Safe for Dogs?

✔️Toothbrush: Only use a pet-specific toothbrush with soft bristles.
✔️Toothpaste: Must be dog-specific. Human toothpaste has xylitol or fluoride in it, which hurts if swallowed.
✔️ Flavors: Chicken, peanut butter or vanilla-mint keep dogs interested in the process.

Products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) provide extra safety and efficacy. Never replace with household  items, such as baking soda or essential oils – they are harmful to your dog.

1️⃣ Get your supplies: Toothbrush, toothpaste, towel, and a treat.
2️⃣ Offer the paste: Allow your pup to lick it to familiarize with the taste
3️⃣ Gently lift the lips and begin with the front teeth.
4️⃣ Use small, circular motions and focus on the outer surfaces
5️⃣ Hold each side for 30–60 seconds, and increase slowly.
6️⃣ Conclude with praise and a reward to reinforce positive behavior.

Be patient and positive. And some dogs take several weeks to fully accept tooth brushing — stay calm and reward progress.

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✔️ Reminders so you don’t miss a session
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Brushing your dog’s teeth puts you on the front lines to see early signs of dental disease. The reality is most problems begin small and get progressively worse if left unchecked.

What Are the Symptoms of Tooth Pain or Gum Disease in Dogs?

🔴 Persistent bad breath, not improved by brushing.
🔴 Gums that are red, swollen or bleeding, particularly near the back teeth.
🔴 Tartar deposits yellow or brown hard crusty mineral substance on the teeth.
🔴 Unwillingness to chew, eat, or play with toys.
🔴 Stringy, chipped or absent teeth.
🔴 Excessive pawing at the mouth or drooling.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to make an appointment for a dental exam. Many conditions can be managed, or even reverse when early stage and it prevents severe health risks and expensive treatments.

Explore blogs, breed insights, and expert advice on Dosty.co!

1. Can I use baking soda or salt to clean my dog’s teeth?
No. These can upset or damage your dog’s digestive tract.

2. What’s the easiest brush for beginners?
Finger brushes are less intimidating and gentler for first-time brushing dogs.

3. Is professional cleaning still needed if I brush at home?
Yes, annual dental checkups and cleanings remain important.

4. Can I use dental chews instead of brushing?
Chews are good, but brushing is better for plaque.

5. At what age should I start brushing?
Begin at about 8 weeks old to establish comfort and routine.

Teeth brushing is one of the most vital preventive health steps you can do for your dog. It decreases disease, pain, and future vet bills and enhances your dog’s long-term quality of life.

👉 Identify problems early and track progress with the Dosty app’s Symptom Checker and Chat Assistant.