Brushing Teeth

Dental disease is one of the most common health problems vets see in dogs, and most dogs show signs of it by the age of three. Plaque builds up on the teeth, hardens into tartar, and inflames the gums. Over time that can lead to pain, tooth loss, and infection.

Brushing is the most effective thing you can do at home to slow this down. It works because it removes plaque before it hardens, which means it has to be frequent: daily is ideal, and several times a week is the minimum that makes a real difference.

Most dogs will not accept a toothbrush on day one. Build up over a week or two — toothpaste on your finger, then lifting the lips, then a few brushes on the front teeth — and keep each session short and rewarding.

Brushing does not replace professional dental cleaning under anaesthetic, which many dogs need from time to time. But it can extend the time between cleanings and help prevent painful problems.

Regular brushing with dog-safe toothpaste, built up through gradual handling.

Why it matters: Slows plaque and tartar build-up, supports gum health, and can reduce the need for dental treatment.

Difficulty: easy

Also called: dog tooth brushing, canine dental brushing

Frequency: Daily is ideal; at least 3-4 times a week.

Estimated time: 2-5 minutes

Supplies: dog toothbrush or finger brush, dog toothpaste (enzymatic or flavoured), treats

Breed and coat considerations: Small and toy breeds and flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds often have crowded teeth and tend to develop dental disease earlier, so consistency matters most for them.

Age considerations: Start with puppies once their adult teeth come in (around 6 months), though handling the mouth can start earlier. Older dogs can learn too, but check with your vet first if they have sore teeth or gums.

• 1. Introduce the toothpaste Let your dog lick a little dog toothpaste off your finger. Most like the flavour. Done right: Dog happily licks the toothpaste. Time: 1-2 days
• 2. Lift the lips Gently lift the upper lip on one side and rub toothpaste along the outer surface of the teeth with your finger. Reward. Done right: Dog lets you touch its teeth for a few seconds. Time: 2-4 days
• 3. Introduce the brush Let your dog lick toothpaste off the brush. Then brush a few front teeth with small circular motions. Done right: Dog accepts a few seconds of brushing. Time: 2-4 days
• 4. Work toward the back Gradually brush further back, holding the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line. Focus on the outer surfaces of the upper back teeth and canines, where tartar builds most. Done right: You can brush both sides of the mouth in one session. Time: 1-2 weeks
• 5. Make it routine Brush at the same time each day, for about 30 seconds per side, and finish with a treat or play. Done right: Dog accepts brushing as part of its day. Time: Ongoing

Safety notes: Never use human toothpaste — it may contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs, and fluoride, which should not be swallowed. Stop if your dog shows pain; sore teeth need a vet check before brushing.

When to get help: Bleeding or red gums, broken or loose teeth, heavy brown tartar, very bad breath, dropping food, chewing on one side, or pawing at the mouth.

• Using human toothpaste Why it happens: It is in the bathroom Fix: Only use toothpaste made for dogs.
• Trying to brush the whole mouth on day one Why it happens: Wanting results fast Fix: Build up gradually over a week or two.
• Only brushing occasionally Why it happens: Easy to forget Fix: Plaque hardens within days, so link brushing to an existing habit like the evening meal.
• Trying to brush the inside surfaces Why it happens: Thoroughness Fix: The tongue keeps the inner surfaces cleaner. Focus on the outer surfaces.

• Dog chews the brush Likely cause: Brush is new and interesting What to do: Go back to a finger brush for a while, or try a smaller brush.
• Gums bleed when brushing Likely cause: Gum inflammation (gingivitis) What to do: Brush more gently and book a vet check.
• Dog clamps its mouth shut Likely cause: Discomfort or moving too fast What to do: Brush only the outside of the teeth — you do not need the mouth open. Go back a step if needed.