How to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth (Even If They Hate It)

Dental disease is one of the most common health problems vets see in adult dogs. Plaque builds up on teeth every day, hardens into tartar and can lead to sore gums, bad breath and, eventually, tooth loss or pain that dogs are very good at hiding. Daily brushing is widely regarded as the most effective thing you can do at home to slow that process down. The trick is teaching your dog that brushing is no big deal.

What you need

• Pet toothpaste. Never use human toothpaste. Many contain fluoride and some contain xylitol, which is very dangerous for dogs. Pet toothpastes are designed to be swallowed and come in flavours dogs tend to like.
• A soft toothbrush. A dog toothbrush, a finger brush, or a soft child-size brush for small dogs.
• Small treats for rewarding each step.
• A calm moment, ideally after a walk when your dog is relaxed.

When choosing dental chews, gels or water additives as extras, look for products carrying the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal, which means the manufacturer has submitted data showing the product helps control plaque or tartar. These can help, but they do not replace brushing.

The two-week introduction plan

Move at your dog’s pace. Each step might take one session or several. Keep sessions to a minute or two, finish while your dog is still happy, and reward generously.

Brushing technique

Stand or sit beside or slightly behind your dog rather than facing them head on, which some dogs find confrontational. Lift the lip on one side and angle the brush towards the gum line at about 45 degrees. Use small, gentle circles. Focus on the outer surfaces, especially the big upper cheek teeth and the canines, where tartar often builds. Most dogs will not let you brush the inner surfaces, and the tongue does some cleaning there naturally.

A little gum bleeding may happen if gums are inflamed. If your dog’s gums bleed a lot or seem sore, stop and talk to your vet before continuing.

When your dog really does not like it

Go back to the last step your dog was comfortable with and stay there longer. Try a different flavour of toothpaste or a finger brush instead of a long-handled brush. Some dogs do better lying on their side on a favourite mat. Never pin a dog down to brush — that can make them fearful of mouth handling, which also makes vet visits harder.

If your dog growls, snaps or shows strong fear, stop and get professional help. Mouth pain can make brushing uncomfortable, so a vet check is a sensible first step.

Signs your dog needs a dental check

Look in your dog’s mouth once a week when you brush. Book a vet appointment if you notice:

• Persistent bad breath
• Red, swollen or bleeding gums
• Yellow-brown tartar build-up, especially along the gum line
• Loose, broken or discoloured teeth
• Chewing on one side, dropping food or reluctance to eat hard food
• Pawing at the mouth, drooling or facial swelling

Once tartar has formed, brushing cannot remove it. Vets can clean teeth thoroughly under general anaesthetic, which allows them to clean below the gum line, take X-rays and treat problem teeth. Your vet can tell you how often your dog is likely to need this.

Make it part of the daily routine

Link brushing to something you already do every day, such as after the evening walk or before bedtime. Keep the toothbrush and paste somewhere visible. If daily brushing is not realistic, several times a week is still far better than nothing. Replace the brush when the bristles splay.