Key takeaways
- Have your dog's teeth checked by a vet at least once a year.
- Bad breath, tartar, drooling, dropping food and a sore mouth are signs to book a check sooner.
- Daily brushing with a dog toothpaste is the gold standard; a few times a week still helps.
- Never use human toothpaste: it isn't meant to be swallowed and some contain xylitol.
Why teeth matter
Dental health is part of your dog's overall health. Plaque hardens into tartar, inflames the gums and, below the gumline, damages the structures that hold teeth in place. Dental problems can cause, or be caused by, other health problems, and many dogs hide mouth pain well.
Signs to book a check
- Bad breath
- Broken, loose or discolored teeth, or teeth covered in tartar
- Drooling, chewing on one side or dropping food
- Eating less or refusing food
- Bleeding from the mouth or swelling around it
- Irritability or pawing at the face
How to brush, step by step
- Pick a soft dog toothbrush or finger brush and a toothpaste made for dogs.
- Let your dog lick a little toothpaste from your finger and reward them.
- Lift the lip and rub your finger along the outer surface of the teeth and gums.
- Swap your finger for the brush. Angle the bristles about 45 degrees toward the gumline and use small, gentle circles.
- Focus on the outer surfaces, especially the back teeth and canines. The tongue does much of the work on the inside.
- Keep sessions short and positive, and build up over a week or two.
Professional cleanings
Even with brushing, many dogs need professional cleaning. Veterinary dental cleanings are done under anesthesia so the vet can clean and examine below the gumline, where most dental disease happens. The American Veterinary Dental College does not recommend anesthesia-free cleanings for that reason.
Chews and toys
Chewing can help keep teeth cleaner, but very hard items can fracture teeth. Choose chews sized for your dog, supervise, and avoid anything you can't dent with a fingernail if your dog is a forceful chewer.
Products that help.
KONG Classic
For a more interesting playtime
A stuffable natural-rubber toy for dogs who enjoy chewing, chasing and working for a treat.
- Average chewers
- Food-puzzle enrichment
Questions, answered
How often should I brush my dog's teeth?
Daily is ideal. If that isn't realistic, aim for at least three or four times a week.
Can I use human toothpaste on my dog?
No. Human toothpaste isn't designed to be swallowed, and some contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. Use a toothpaste made for dogs.
Do dogs need anesthesia for teeth cleaning?
A proper cleaning below the gumline needs anesthesia. Veterinary dental specialists don't recommend anesthesia-free cleanings.
Sources
We base our care guides on guidance from veterinary schools, veterinary associations and animal welfare organizations, written in our own words. If your pet is unwell, your vet is the right first call.