Good oral health is important for humans, cats, and dogs alike. Brushing your dog’s teeth every day and scheduling a dental exam once a year can help you keep your pet healthy and strong.
When you brush your dog’s teeth, you’re protecting their good health. Unchecked dental diseases can lead to all sorts of problems. Pain when eating or drinking can cause nutritional deficiencies, and poor oral health can lead to infections that cause tooth loss.
But brushing your dog’s teeth isn’t always easy! These four tips should help.
Tip 1: Go Slowly
If you are trying to get a puppy used to toothbrushing or trying to teach an older dog this new trick, take it slow.
- Start with getting them used to having their mouth handled. Gently raise their lips to examine their teeth.
- When they are used to you touching their mouth, start using a toothbrush with water.
- Wait to add toothpaste until they have learned to accept the brush.
This learning process can take anywhere from a week to six months or even longer, depending on your dog. Remember, teeth are sharp, and a cornered dog might lash out. Take your time, take breaks, and stop if your dog seems stressed in any way.
Tip 2: Use the Right Tools
Using a dog toothbrush in the correct size will make brushing your pet’s teeth a lot easier. Obviously, a Great Dane is going to need a bigger toothbrush than a Yorkie. Dog toothbrushes are also angled in a way that makes it easier for you to reach their teeth.
When choosing a toothpaste, always buy one that’s formulated specifically for dogs. Some human toothpastes can be poisonous to pets. This is especially true for toothpastes with ingredients like xylitol, which can be deadly in large amounts.
Tip 3: Brush Properly
Brushing removes plaque and keeps tartar from forming. Here’s how to do it the right way:
- Brush in a circular motion
- Concentrate on the back teeth and the areas closest to the gumline
- Make sure to brush every tooth
- Brush gently—brushing too hard can scratch your dog’s enamel and gums
Tip 4: Call in Reinforcements
Bribery can often make tooth brushing easier. Pulling out the high-value treats can cut down the amount of time it takes your dog to warm up to the idea of tooth brushing. Treats also make the process enjoyable for them—bonus points if your dog will eat a dental treat!
Sometimes it takes two people to brush a dog’s teeth. Having their favorite human hold them and offer pets and love while the other brushes their teeth can make nervous dogs feel better about the invasive process.
Dental Care for Dogs in Gilbert, Arizona
Toothbrushing is not the only way to care for your dog’s oral health. From young adults to senior dogs, once-a-year dental checkups are always recommended. Preventive veterinary care and daily tooth brushing will help keep your dog’s teeth healthy for their entire life.
Dental checkups and teeth cleanings:
- Remove harmful tartar buildup
- Detect decay before it spreads to other teeth
- Keep your dog’s breath fresher
- Help you focus your brushing on places where plaque tends to gather
Here at East Valley Animal Hospital, we treat every pet like they’re part of our family. We offer the best veterinary care for dogs in Gilbert, Arizona. If you have concerns about your dog’s dental health or wish to schedule an exam, please contact us today.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (8/14/25). Photo by Vidak on Unsplash.