How To Take Care of Your Dog’s Teeth at Home

Diamond's Friends Pet Rescue
Jun 16
4 min read

Dental care is one of the most overlooked aspects of canine health, yet it’s hugely important to your dog’s overall well-being. The good news? You can do a lot at home to keep those pearly whites clean and your pup healthy.

Here’s what you should know about taking care of your pup’s teeth.

Why It’s Important To Take Care of Your Dog’s Teeth

Dental disease in dogs isn’t just about bad breath, though that’s a telltale sign. According to the American Veterinary Medicine Association (AVMA), by age three, most dogs already show signs of periodontal disease. This can lead to pain, tooth loss, and even reduced appetite.

Just like with people, healthy teeth and gums in dogs can prevent infections, improve comfort, and even extend lifespan. So, brushing your dog's teeth is a must.

Supplies You’ll Need

You don’t need a full dental suite at home. You'll just need a few basics, including:

Canine toothpaste: Never use human toothpaste because it often contains xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
Dog-specific toothbrush: These have softer bristles and are designed for your pup’s mouth.
Optional extras: Finger brushes, dental wipes, or a soft cloth can be good for dogs who are new to brushing.

Some pet parents even find success using dental gels, sprays, or water additives to support oral hygiene.

Learn More: Supplies To Buy Before Bringing Home a New Dog

How To Brush Your Dog's Teeth

According to VCA, these are the best steps to follow if you want to brush your dog's teeth:

Put a small amount of toothpaste on the toothbrush.
Gently raise your dog's lips up on one side of their mouth and brush the accessible teeth.
To brush your dog's lower teeth, open your dog's mouth a little and brush the accessible teeth.
Concentrate on brushing the large cheek teeth and the canine teeth at first. This is where plaque and tartar build the fastest.
Then, work your way up to brushing all of your dog's teeth (this might take several days or weeks as they get used to the process).

VCA also suggests not worrying about brushing the inside of your dog's teeth or the tips of their teeth since most damage happens on the teeth's outer surfaces.

How Often To Brush Your Dog’s Teeth

Ideally, you should brush your dog’s teeth daily. If that’s not realistic, aim for at least a few times per week to reduce plaque buildup.

The longer plaque sits on teeth, the harder it is to remove. After 48 hours, plaque begins to harden into tartar. If that happens, your pup may need a professional cleaning.

Start slow, use positive reinforcement, and make it a bonding moment. Some dogs even learn to love it!

Products That Can Help With Dental Health for Dogs

Can’t brush every day? There are other tools that can help between brushings, like:

Dental chews: Look for the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) seal, which means the product is proven to reduce plaque and tartar.
Dental toys: Chew toys with ridges can help scrape off plaque while keeping your dog entertained.
Water additives: These go in your dog’s water bowl and may help reduce oral bacteria.

Just remember that these products support brushing. They don’t replace it.

Dental Signs To Watch Out For

Keep an eye (and nose) out for these signs of dental trouble:

Bad breath
Decreased appetite or weight loss
Head shaking
Pawing at the mouth or drooling
Red, inflamed gums
Yellow or brown tartar buildup

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time for a dental checkup. Painful dental disease often goes unnoticed because dogs are so good at hiding discomfort.

Why You Should Still Have Your Vet Clean Your Dog’s Teeth

Even the most diligent at-home dental care won’t replace a professional cleaning. Vets use tools to clean below the gumline, where toothbrushes and dental chews can’t reach. This is where most periodontal disease begins.

Cleanings also allow vets to examine for tooth fractures, infections, or tumors that can’t be seen from the surface.

Yes, it usually involves anesthesia. However, it’s safe for most dogs and far more thorough than an awake cleaning. Just make sure to run pre-anesthesia bloodwork to help minimize the risk.

Learn More: How To Choose a Veterinarian

How Often Should Your Dog’s Teeth Be Professionally Cleaned?

Most dogs should get a professional cleaning once a year, but some may need it more often (or less) depending on breed, age, and dental health.

Generally, smaller dogs may need more frequent cleanings than larger pups. But talk to your vet. They can recommend a dental schedule based on your dog’s needs.

What About Anesthesia-Free Dental Cleanings?

You might have seen anesthesia-free dental cleanings advertised at groomers or boutique pet stores. They are often marketed as a safer or more affordable alternative to veterinary dental care. But are they effective?

In short, no.

Anesthesia-free cleanings only address the visible surfaces of the teeth. They remove some plaque and tartar you can see, but they don’t clean below the gumline, where most dental disease occurs.

According to the American Veterinary Dental College, anesthesia-free cleanings only address the visible surfaces of the teeth. They remove some plaque and tartar you can see, but they don’t clean below the gumline where most dental disease occurs.

While anesthesia-free options might help slightly with surface-level tartar, they are not a replacement for professional dental care.

Final Thoughts

A little effort goes a long way when it comes to your dog’s dental health. Regular brushing, the right products, and routine cleanings can keep your dog’s mouth pain-free while improving their health.

Disclaimer: This article is not intended as professional medical advice. It is based on personal experience and online research. Please consult with your veterinarian if you are concerned about your dog's health.