Dog teeth cleaning is not always a high priority for dog owners, and even if it is done, it’s not as regular as it should be. However, it's an essential part of keeping your dog’s overall dental health in check — and you can do more than you think to keep that smelly breath at bay and those pearly whites in excellent condition.
We’ve got all the teeth cleaning basics covered, with helpful tips and insights from Petstock vet, Dr Natalia Li.
How to brush your dog's teeth
To avoid dental disease in dogs, you should adopt a regular cleaning routine. With a slow and consistent introduction of teeth cleaning products to your dog, it doesn't need to be a high anxiety or comical event.
What you'll need
Firstly, you won’t be using a human-grade toothpaste or toothbrush to clean your dog’s teeth. Instead, there is a range of dog toothbrushes and toothpaste available to purchase.
“These specialised toothbrushes are designed specifically for canine dentition and are usually a little less abrasive than our average human brushes.” - Dr Natalia Li, Petstock vet.
To make life (and your dog's breath) a breeze, you can also add these dental products to your rotation:
- Toothpaste and gel
- Water additive
- Toothbrush
- Dental wipes
- Fresh breath foam
The right technique
- Apply dog toothpaste according to the pack instructions.
- Gently lift your dog’s lips and brush in small circular motions.
- Focus on the gum line and outer tooth surfaces.
- Stop and speak to your vet if you notice bleeding.
- Reward your dog afterwards.
“After brushing your dog’s teeth, tell your pup what a good dog he/she is and potentially give a treat as a reward. You can also choose to give a dental treat and let it take care of the nooks and corners you may have missed.” - Dr Natalia Li, Petstock vet.
It’s important you never use human toothpaste to clean your dog’s teeth, as some ingredients can be toxic to dogs.
Desensitising dogs to teeth cleaning
It's understandable that your dog may be unnerved by the teeth cleaning process. Here are a few tips to help desensitise them:
- Start by rubbing meat juice or tuna juice along their gum line with your finger.
- Let them sniff or sit near the toothbrush, rewarding calm behaviour.
- Gradually move the brush closer to their mouth before moving the brush into their mouth.
- Start with meat juice on the toothbrush first, and when they become accepting, use the actual dog toothpaste or gel.
If your pup is particularly anxious and the process is causing too much stress than it should, don’t force it too hard. The pressure is not worth it, and you can always resort to daily dental treats and water additives, along with your regular professional dental cleans. Just remember, dental treats and water additives won’t be as effective as actual brushing, even though your pup would appreciate it.
Products to clean your dog's teeth
- Dental chews and sticks: Help reduce plaque through chewing, but shouldn’t replace brushing or vet cleans.
- Dental toys: Textured toys can help support teeth and gums during play.
- Raw bones and treats: Can assist with chewing, but only feed raw bones and always choose the right size for your dog.
- Dental food: Designed to create more friction against the teeth, but speak to your vet before changing diets.
Note: With any substantial change or alteration to your dog’s diet, you should ensure the transition is gradual and that you speak to your vet if you notice any changes in behaviour or health.
When to get a professional dental checkup
While it’s important to clean your dog’s teeth at home, you should also book them in for regular professional dental cleans every six months. Your vet can also recommend a personalised dental care plan based on your dog’s needs.
A professional dental clean removes plaque and tartar build-up using specialised equipment, including an ultrasonic scaler. At Petstock Vet, your dog will first receive a full health check and any necessary blood tests before being placed under general anaesthesia for the clean. This keeps them comfortable, allows the vet to complete a thorough oral examination, and ensures they can identify and treat any diseased teeth or oral concerns before they cause further pain or discomfort.
Ready to keep your dog's mouth healthy — and their teeth sparkling clean? Explore Petstock's range of dog dental care products, or book in with a Petstock Vet for a tailored consultation.