🪥 Brushing Your Dog’s Teeth: A 2025 Vet Guide to Canine Dental Care 🐶

By Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc

What would happen if you stopped brushing your own teeth? Even if your diet was limited to dry foods, you’d still end up with plaque, tartar, and gum issues. The same goes for dogs. 🦷🐾

Daily brushing is one of the most effective ways to prevent dental disease in your dog. It’s easier than you think — and with a gentle, consistent approach, most dogs learn to enjoy it! 💖

🌟 Why Brush Your Dog’s Teeth?

Brushing your dog’s teeth:

• 🦠 Removes plaque buildup
• 💨 Reduces bad breath
• 🩺 Prevents periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss and pain
• 🫀 Helps prevent heart and kidney disease caused by oral bacteria

🧼 A few minutes a day can add years of comfort to your dog’s life.

🧰 Step 1: Choose the Right Toothbrush

The best toothbrush for dogs will have:

• 🪥 Soft bristles (never use human toothbrushes)
• 📐 An angled head for easier access to the back teeth
• 📏 A long handle for larger breeds

🐕 For dogs under 30 pounds, try a finger toothbrush that fits over your fingertip — it gives more control and is less intimidating.

🧴 Step 2: Pick a Pet-Safe Toothpaste

✅ Look for toothpaste made specifically for dogs — never use human toothpaste, as it may contain xylitol or other harmful ingredients.

Best toothpastes include:

• 🧪 Enzymes to help break down plaque
• 🧂 Optional: Fluoride (veterinarian-recommended)

🌀 Avoid pastes with baking soda, salt, or detergents. Squeeze a small amount between the bristles to keep it in contact with teeth and gums. 🦷

🐾 Step 3: Train Your Dog to Accept Brushing

Even older dogs can learn to love brushing — the key is patience and positive reinforcement. 💖

🎯 First 2 Weeks: Build Comfort

• 🧼 Use a damp washcloth or gauze to gently wipe the teeth and gums
• 🍖 Offer tasty, teeth-friendly rewards afterward
• 🗓️ Repeat twice daily until brushing is routine

🪥 Week 3 Onward: Start Brushing

1. 📍 Lift the upper lip to expose the teeth
2. ⬅️ Use back-and-forth strokes on the outer surfaces of the upper teeth
3. ➡️ Move to the lower teeth, and don’t forget the incisors and canines
4. ↘️ Gently place bristles below the gum line at a 45-degree angle

🌀 Use small, oval motions — ten short strokes per area — then move to the next set of 3–4 teeth.

🎯 Brushing Focus Areas

🦷 Most dental disease starts in the upper back teeth, so focus on:

• 📌 Outer surfaces of the upper molars and premolars
• 📌 Gum line margins where plaque hides

📆 How Often Should You Brush?

🔁 Ideally, twice a day. If that’s not possible, aim for at least 3–4 times a week for benefit. 🗓️

🍖 What About Dental Treats and Chews?

Dental chews are great as a supplement but don’t replace brushing. Look for VOHC-approved products that are clinically tested. 🏅

🧼 Daily Dental Care Checklist

• 🪥 Use an enzymatic toothpaste made for dogs
• ✅ Choose a soft-bristled pet toothbrush
• 🎯 Focus on the outer upper back teeth
• 🧼 Brush daily or as often as possible
• 🎁 Reward with praise or dental treats!

📱 Ask A Vet Can Help

If you’re unsure how to start brushing or if your dog already shows signs of dental disease, get advice from the experts. The Ask A Vet App helps you:

• 🎥 Watch brushing how-to videos
• 📅 Track brushing and cleaning schedules
• 💬 Chat with a vet about oral care products

Visit AskAVet.com for expert dental support. 🐶🪥

🧠 Final Thoughts from Dr Duncan Houston

Brushing your dog’s teeth is one of the most powerful tools you have to prevent disease. It’s quick, it’s affordable, and it makes a big difference. 🐾

Start slow, stay consistent, and don’t be afraid to ask your vet or use the Ask A Vet App for support. A healthy mouth leads to a longer, happier life for your best friend. 🦷❤️