Tips for Brushing Your Dogs Teeth

Nobody likes bad breath, but in our pets, it can be a red flag that something more serious is happening. Maintaining your dog’s dental health is crucial to their overall well-being. Dental disease is among the most common disorders reported by veterinarians. Still, less than half of dog owners report brushing their dog’s teeth, with less than 1 in 10 brushing daily.

Not all dogs naturally take to the process of tooth-brushing and if your dog is more likely to squirm away than sit still during a brushing session, don’t fret. Training your dog to tolerate and even enjoy tooth-brushing is entirely possible. Here is a step-by-step guide to creating a positive tooth-brushing regimen for your dog!

A black poodle getting their teeth brushed with the Animora Bamboo Tooth Brush

Start as early as possible!

The earlier, the better. This adage rings particularly true for dental care. Puppyhood is the golden period for setting routines and forging good habits for your pup. We recommend beginning to get your dog comfortable with having their mouth handled around the time their baby teeth begin to erupt (around three to four months old). This early start takes advantage of a puppy’s natural affinity towards new experiences, ensuring that your pup is more likely to embrace tooth-brushing as a standard, non-threatening part of their daily routine. This early introduction also plays a vital role in preventing the buildup of plaque and tartar, setting the stage for a lifetime of good dental health.

If your dog is past the puppy phase, the best time to start is now! Despite establishing routines and behaviours, adult dogs can still adapt to new practices given enough patience and the right approach. Older dogs may require a more gradual and gentler introduction to brushing, but starting now can halt the progression of any existing dental issues and significantly improve your dog’s dental health.

Establish a comfortable area.

The first step in introducing your dog to brushing is establishing a comfortable area to ensure the process begins positive and stress-free. Choose a spot that’s quiet and has minimal unwanted distractions. We recommend a cozy corner of your living room, a spot in your bedroom, or any area your dog naturally gravitates towards and associates with comfort and security. Placing a comfortable mat or blanket down in this area not only adds an element of physical comfort but also serves as a cue to your dog that it’s time for their dental routine. Keep all your necessary tools, such as your toothbrush, toothpaste, and treats (we recommend dental treats) close at hand.

A happy tan dog bundled up in a bed.

Utilize reward and release cues!

Utilizing clear reward and release cues is fundamental to introducing any new routine, and dental care is no exception. These cues facilitate communication and help your dog understand what is expected of them, ensuring they don’t feel confused or surprised. Reward cues should be unique words like “Yes” or “Good.” These should be consistent but infrequently used in other contexts to avoid confusion. For this reason, we recommend using a clicker! Pairing this cue with treats and praise ensures your dog builds a positive association with the reward cue.

At the end of each brushing session, utilize a release cue. Much like the reward cue, this cue signals the end of the dental care session. Choose a distinctive phrase like “All Done!” or “Thank You!” A release cue signals to your dog that the routine is over, and they can transition to a more relaxing activity. Ensure you pair this cue with a final treat and plenty of praise.

Proceed at their pace.

When your dog is first getting used to dental cleaning, utilize your cue to reward your dog for letting you near their mouth. Then, when they are ready, move up to touching their mouth. Once they are comfortable with that, escalate to lifting their lips and touching their teeth and gums with your finger. Finally, mimic the motion of brushing with your finger. Gently move your finger in a brushing motion on their teeth and gums. Immediately reward calm and cooperative behaviour at each stage with your cue and a treat. Be mindful of any signs of discomfort, ceasing whenever they crop up, and praise your dog for communicating this discomfort to you, reassuring them that they are in control of their situation.

Once your dog is comfortable with being handled in this way, introduce the toothbrush and toothpaste. Let them sniff and interact with these items. Again, when they show curiosity or calmness around these items, use your reward cue and provide a treat. This helps your dog associate the toothbrush and toothpaste with positive outcomes. Next, apply a small amount of toothpaste to the tip of your finger and gently brush one or two teeth. When your dog tolerates this, even briefly, use your reward cue and offer a treat. Gradually increase the number of teeth brushed and the duration, rewarding patience and cooperation. Once your dog is used to the process, you can slowly introduce the toothbrush.

A close up of a dogs teeth, ready for brushing!

Tips & Tricks:

Be consistent. There is no substitute for repetition when establishing habits for you and your dog. Make dental care a part of your daily routine, ideally after the last meal of the day. This helps prevent overnight plaque buildup and establishes a routine your dog can anticipate.
Break up brushing sessions. If your dog is new to brushing or finds it stressful, consider breaking the session into shorter, more manageable segments. Focus on different areas of the mouth in each session, gradually increasing the duration as your dog becomes more comfortable.
Pick a tasty, dog-friendly toothpaste. Human toothpaste is toxic for dogs since it contains compounds such as xylitol, fluoride, foaming agents, and essential oils. The taste of the toothpaste can make a significant difference in how your dog perceives brushing. Using a palatable toothpaste like Animora’s Cranberry Dental Gel can turn a chore into a treat. The appealing flavour encourages your dog to tolerate and even look forward to brushing sessions.
Complement the brushing routine by incorporating additional dental care products like Proden Plaque Off Powder, treats, chews, and rinses. While not a replacement for regular brushing, these products can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, freshen breath, and promote oral health.

Animora Cranberry Dental Gel, the toothpaste East Coast Dog uses in their grooming salon!

No matter how impeccable your dental habits are, your dog can still encounter issues that only a professional eye can spot. Regular veterinary dental check-ups are crucial in offering specialized care, tailored advice, and early detection of potential problems. Your efforts at home lay a foundation that extends beyond your doorstep. A dog accustomed to regular dental handling will likely be more at ease during vet visits. Familiarity with mouth handling means your dog will view dental check-ups as a continuation of their home care. This familiarity can make veterinary visits less stressful and more productive for your dog and your vet.

Embracing these practices and tips can significantly enhance your dog’s dental care routine, transforming it from a chore into an enjoyable bonding experience and paving the way to a lifetime of healthy, happy smiles!