How to Brush a Dog’s Teeth: A Step-by-Step Guide

My three-year-old chug Lula looks up at me with the cutest snaggle toothed underbite. I can’t help but notice her teeth are yellow, exposed as they are to air as well as the fact that they have never been brushed. It nags at me that I should do something about her teeth, especially because both pugs and chihuahuas are more prone to dental issues than other dogs. Same for Yorkshire terriers, greyhounds, Shetland sheepdogs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Maltese. Small breeds in particular—anyone shorter than knee height—are high risk for periodontal disease.

But whatever your breed, brushing your dog’s teeth is an important part of their overall health and can help mitigate the risk of dental diseases. Fun fact: For dogs, the associated pain from sore teeth and gums is often severe and can last for weeks, or even months. In addition, bad teeth and gums can also lead to other serious problems in dogs, including kidney and heart disease. By the time they’re three years old, most dogs already have some signs of gum disease. It begins with your dog’s gums pulling back from their teeth a little. That creates gaps, which can let bacteria from their mouth enter their bloodstream. Eventually, it can progress to mild gingivitis, infections and then to a full-blown periodontal issue.

While many dogs resist having you put your fingers or a toothbrush in their mouth, with much patience, you should be able to get your dog accustomed to it.

How to brush a dog’s teeth

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you brush your dog’s teeth effectively:

What you’ll need:

Dog toothbrush or a soft-bristled human toothbrush

Try: Petique Eco-Friendly Bamboo Pet Toothbrush Small, $5, vitacost.com

Dog toothpaste (human toothpaste can be harmful to dogs)

Try: Arm & Hammer Complete Care Enzymatic Toothpaste for Dogs, $3, vitacost.com

Make it a positive experience

Rookie mistake: Trying to shove a toothbrush into your pet’s mouth and expect them to comply. Any new behavior you’re trying to instill takes time. Choose a quiet time and place where your dog feels relaxed. Get your pup used to having their mouth touched by giving them a treat as you rub their cheeks. It’s a good idea to keep the dental essentials on the floor nearby as part of exposure therapy, and always let your dog approach the tools if they’re curious.

Introduce the toothpaste & toothbrush

Once your dog is comfortable with the set-up, introduce the pet-friendly toothpaste. Put a small amount of dog toothpaste on your finger and let your dog lick it off. This helps them get used to the taste. Give your dog plenty of time to examine the paste. Use your finger to gently rub the toothpaste on their teeth and gums. This helps your dog get used to the sensation.

Next step is the toothbrush. Give your dog treats as you bring the toothbrush near to their mouth. Getting your dog comfortable with the toothbrush can take a week or two—don’t give up. Begin by rubbing the brush bristles against your pup’s teeth for a few seconds at a time.

Best brushing technique

Brushing your dog’s teeth is different from human teeth. Thankfully, you only need to brush only the outside surface of their teeth (the side contacting their cheeks). Apply a small amount of dog toothpaste to the toothbrush. Gently brush in a downward motion, focusing on the gum line where plaque tends to accumulate. Start with just a few teeth and gradually work your way around the mouth as your dog becomes more comfortable.

Aim to brush your dog’s teeth at least a few times a week, which is more realistic a goal than daily.

End on a positive note

Use positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, to make the experience pleasant for your dog. if your dog becomes anxious or uncooperative, take a break. You can always try again later. Always stop when everyone’s still having fun.

Bonus Tips:

• Consistency is king. The more regularly you brush your dog’s teeth, the more comfortable they will become with the process.
• Reward your dog after each brushing session with praise and treats.
• Check your dog’s mouth regularly for any signs of dental issues, such as bad breath, red or swollen gums or loose teeth. If you notice any problems, consult your veterinarian.

When brushing your dog’s teeth is a non-starter

Dental chews to the rescue. Some dogs just have a hard time letting someone in their mouth to brush their teeth. In that case, dental chews may help. Though they aren’t the equivalent to brushing, they can help keep your dog’s mouth relatively healthy.

Look for edible treats that take a long time to chew and have the VOHC seal of approval. The longer  the chomp time, the better to clear buildup.

Try: Tartar Shield Soft Rawhide Chews for Small Dogs VOHC Accepted Daily Dental Treat, $15, vitacost.com