Brush Your Dog’s Teeth 2025: Vet’s Guide to Dental Health at Home 🐶✨

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Dog breath isn’t supposed to smell like a sewer. Dental disease is one of the most common (and preventable) health problems in dogs—and brushing is the #1 way to fight it. I’m Dr. Duncan Houston, veterinarian and founder of Ask A Vet. Here’s a step-by-step guide to brushing your dog’s teeth, why it matters, and what to use for clean, healthy chompers.

🦷 Why Brushing Your Dog’s Teeth Matters

• 80% of dogs over age 3 have some form of dental disease
• Bad breath is often a sign of infection, not “normal” dog smell
• Bacteria from the mouth can affect the heart, kidneys, and liver

🪥 What You’ll Need

• Dog-safe toothpaste (never human toothpaste—xylitol is toxic!)
• Dog toothbrush or finger brush
• Treats and patience
• Towel or non-slip mat (optional for small dogs)

✅ Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Choose a Calm Time

• After a walk or play session is ideal

Step 2: Let Them Taste the Toothpaste

• Start by letting your dog lick it off your finger or the brush
• Use chicken, beef, or peanut butter flavored toothpaste made for dogs

Step 3: Practice Handling the Mouth

• Gently lift the lips, touch the gums, and reward with praise or treats

Step 4: Start Brushing in Small Circles

• Focus on the outer surfaces of the back teeth first—this is where tartar builds fastest
• Brush for 30–60 seconds per side

Step 5: Build the Routine

• Even brushing 2–3x per week makes a big difference
• Daily brushing is the gold standard, but consistency is key

🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using human toothpaste (xylitol = toxic)
• Using hard brushes that irritate gums
• Starting too fast—build trust first
• Skipping vet dental cleanings entirely

🧼 Signs Your Dog Has Dental Disease

• Bad breath
• Yellow or brown teeth
• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Dropping food or chewing only on one side
• Pawing at the mouth or avoiding chew toys

🦴 Dental Products That Help

• Enzymatic toothpaste (Virbac C.E.T., Petsmile)
• VOHC-approved dental chews (Greenies, Oravet)
• Water additives and dental sprays (secondary support)

🔗 Helpful Tools from Ask A Vet

• Dual Pocket Dispenser – Carry dental treats and wipes on the go
• Ask A Vet – Log dental routines, get toothpaste recommendations, and chat with a vet if you notice gum changes

📋 Summary Excerpt

Brushing your dog’s teeth is easier than you think—and more important than you realize. A vet explains exactly how to do it and why it matters.

❓ FAQs

• Q: How often should I brush my dog’s teeth?
  A: Ideally daily. But 2–3 times per week still makes a difference.
• Q: Can dental chews replace brushing?
  A: No. They help, but brushing is the gold standard.
• Q: Is bad breath normal in dogs?
  A: No. Bad breath usually means dental disease, especially if persistent.