How to brush your dog's teeth: A complete guide
Brushing your dog's teeth is one of the most important—yet often neglected—steps to maintaining their overall health. Good oral hygiene prevents bad breath, tartar buildup, infections, and can even extend your pet's life .
Over 80% of dogs over 3 years old show signs of dental disease. Brushing is the best way to prevent these problems!
⭐ Why is it essential to brush your dog's teeth?
Without regular brushing, dental plaque accumulates, tartar forms, gums become inflamed, and bacteria can even reach internal organs (heart, kidneys, liver).
✔️ The benefits of regular brushing
- Reduces bad breath and prevents cavities.
- Prevents periodontal disease and infections.
- Improves eating comfort.
- Reduces risks and costly veterinary care .
🕒 How often should you brush your dog's teeth?
The ideal recommendation: 👉 1 time per day
As with humans, consistency is key. If you can't manage that, 3 to 4 times a week will already significantly reduce plaque.
Frequency according to age
- Puppy : Start early (from 8–10 weeks) to create the routine.
- Adult : Maintain 1 brushing per day.
- Senior : Enhanced monitoring + daily brushing.
🧰 The essential equipment for brushing your dog's teeth
✔️ 1. A dog toothbrush
- Soft bristle brush (the most classic).
- Double head brush (to cover more surface area).
- Silicone finger cot (ideal for beginners and puppies).
✔️ 2. A toothpaste specially designed for dogs
This is crucial: dogs should never swallow human toothpaste. Dog toothpastes are edible, and their flavors (chicken, beef, vanilla) entice them.
✔️ 3. Optional but useful
Enzymatic dental gel, oral hygiene solutions to add to water or anti-tartar dental treats.
🦷 How to brush your dog's teeth: The step-by-step method
Here is a simple and progressive method to get your dog used to it, even if he is reluctant at first.
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Step 1: Get your dog used to handling
- Gently touch its cheeks, muzzle, lips and gums.
- Praise and reward every time.
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Step 2: Getting familiar with toothpaste
- Put a little toothpaste on your finger and let your dog lick it.
- Repeat for several days to associate the routine with something positive.
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Step 3: Start with the finger cot or a finger
- Gently massage the teeth and gums in circular motions.
- Stop BEFORE he gets fed up and never force him.
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Step 4: Move on to the toothbrush
- Apply toothpaste and brush in small circles.
- Focus on the outside of the teeth (the area most affected by tartar) and the back teeth.
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Step 5: Make the routine enjoyable
- Use reward treats.
- Always brush in a calm environment.
- The complete brushing should last 1 to 2 minutes .
⚠️ Mistakes to absolutely avoid
- Use human toothpaste.
- Forcing the dog's mouth open or brushing too hard.
- Forget about the back teeth.
- Stop the routine as soon as the dog protests.
🐶 How can you tell if your dog has a dental problem?
Watch for these signs:
- Persistent bad breath.
- Bleeding gums or visible tartar (yellow/brown).
- Difficulty eating, excessive drooling.
- Rubbing of the mouth with the paw or teeth that move.
If in doubt, a visit to the veterinarian is necessary.
🧼 Alternatives to complement brushing (but not replace it)
While daily brushing remains the most effective method, you can supplement it with:
- Dental treats and chew toys.
- Enzymatic gels or anti-plaque powders.
- Regular veterinary dental cleanings (under anesthesia).
Photo source: freepik gpointstudio
🎯 Conclusion: Brushing your dog's teeth, a simple action that changes their health
Brushing your dog's teeth gives him better health, fresh breath, less pain and a longer life.
With the right tools, patience and a suitable routine, even the most reluctant dogs eventually accept this grooming moment.