How to Brush Your Dog's Teeth

When to Start

Any time after a puppy has lost its ‘milk teeth’ is a great time to get started brushing. (These ‘deciduous teeth’ will fall out at around six months and be replaced by permanent adult teeth.) The earlier you can start the better, as it’ll be easier to get them used to the process. But even if your dog is fully grown, they’ll benefit greatly from introducing a brushing routine.

What You’ll Need

Human dental hygiene products are not ok for dogs. Specifically designed dog toothbrushes will make the process much easier, and most human toothpastes can make dogs extremely ill. (Plus, the best dog toothpastes come in flavors that they’ll actually want to use, like chicken or salmon!)

Some owners prefer to use a ‘finger brush’—a small rubber cap that slips over your index finger and rubs dog teeth with a textured surface. Dental wipes or even a piece of gauze are more basic alternatives.

Prepping Your Pup

The goal here is to make toothbrushing a positive experience for your dog.

That means getting your dog used to having their lips and gums handled. Before you’ve even introduced equipment, start by moving their lips and gently touching their teeth as you would with a toothbrush. Move slowly and reward their progress. For a food-driven dog, give them their favorite treats. For an attention-driven dog, lots of praise and then extra playtime afterwards.

As your dog gets used to being touched inside the mouth, introduce a dental wipe or a piece of gauze wrapped around your finger in order to mimic the motions of a toothbrush.

If your pet seems overwhelmed, go back to step one. Keep in mind that while this process may be easy for some dogs, it’s also very normal for it to take weeks—or even months. (And if they never graduate past this point, dental wipes are much better than nothing at all!)

Dog, Meet Toothbrush

Since most dog toothpastes are made using flavors that dogs already enjoy, you can start by just letting your pup taste the toothpaste from your finger. If they’re enthusiastic about the taste, great! Move ahead with the toothbrush. (If pup doesn’t like toothpaste, try continuing without it.)

Begin by gently touching your pet’s mouth with the toothbrush. Keep repeating this process until they are comfortable. Then work on building comfort with the brushing motion.

Again, this should be a fun experience! Keep the praise and treats coming at each major step—like when the toothbrush is brought out. And never force your dog into accepting toothbrushing—there should be no risk of ever getting bitten.

How to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth

It’s a good idea to stand behind your pup with them in your lap. Give each area in the mouth the same amount of brushing, and remember that you only need to focus on the outward-facing side of your dog’s teeth:

• Apply your pet-safe toothpaste (if using) to the toothbrush and moisten with water

• Apply toothbrush to your pet’s teeth at a 45 degree angle

• As you start brushing, address each mouth area (back right, front left, etc.) individually. Focus on three horizontal strokes (back and forth) and then a final stroke going from the gumline to the end of the tooth

• The back teeth can be the place that needs the most attention. To help expose them gently pull your dog’s lips back at the corner of the mouth

• If you notice that the toothbrush bristles ‘curve’ then you’re pushing too hard. (Brushing too hard can actually cause damage. Imagine brushing off a tomato without bruising it—that’s the amount of pressure you should apply.)

Beyond the Brush

If your dog simply won’t take to brushing, then you can explore other at-home dental care options: dental treats, chews, foods and water additives. These aren’t a substitute for brushing, but they will help a little.

Don’t Forget the Doggie Dentist

At-home care of your dog’s mouth is important—but it’s still very basic. Professional dental cleaning and treatment at the vet is still a must. Especially if you suspect that your dog has any rotten or diseased teeth.

Your vet will also assess the overall health of your dog’s mouth. Consider it a vital part of your dog’s annual care—especially as your dog gets older.