Last Updated: 04/11/2025
How to brush your dog's teeth: a vet's step-by-step guide
Brushing your dog's teeth is the best way to prevent dental disease. Our vet's guide provides a simple step-by-step method, product tips, and advice for tricky dogs. Learn how to make dental care a positive routine for you and your pet.
Author: Dr Carla Paszkowski BVSc (Hons)
Reading Time: 8 minutes - short read
Let's be honest, the thought of brushing your dog’s teeth can seem... ambitious. Does it conjure images of a wrestling match, a lot of slobber, and a toothbrush ending up as a chew toy? We get it.
But here's the good news: it doesn't have to be that way. Regular brushing is the single best thing you can do to prevent painful dental disease (and that not-so-lovely doggy breath!).
This guide is here to turn that daunting task into a totally doable, and even positive, part of your routine. We'll walk you through the why and the how, with practical, vet-approved steps to get your dog's smile sparkling.
Is it really necessary to brush your dog's teeth?
Dental disease is an incredibly common problem for Australian dogs, with a staggering 80% showing some signs of it by just three years of age. Without proper dental care, dogs can develop a range of oral health issues, including plaque buildup, tartar, bad breath, and painful dental diseases.
What is dental disease?
When vets talk about dental disease, they are generally referring to two main conditions: gingivitis and periodontitis.
- Gingivitis: This is an inflammation of the gums. It's most often caused by a build-up of bacteria-filled plaque along the gumline, but it can also be linked to some viruses or other health conditions.
- Periodontitis: This is what happens if gingivitis is left untreated. The bacteria invade below the gumline, causing inflammation and damaging the tissue that holds the tooth in the gum. On the surface, the plaque reacts with minerals in your dog's saliva, hardening into a yellow-brown material called tartar (or calculus). This process eventually leads to loose teeth and, ultimately, tooth loss.
The risks of poor dental health
Gingivitis and periodontitis cause bad breath, discomfort, and pain. However, the problems are not just limited to your dog's mouth.
Over time, dental disease results in chronic inflammation that can have serious health consequences for your pet, including potential damage to the heart, kidneys, and liver.
How to prevent dental disease
Prevention is key. The best way to manage your dog's dental health is by brushing your dog's teeth. While other methods like dental chews or water additives can offer some benefit, daily brushing is the gold standard for dental home care.
By incorporating tooth brushing and other dental care into your dog's routine, you can:
- Help prevent oral health problems
- Promote fresher breath
- Ensure your dog's teeth and gums remain healthy and strong for life
What products you need to get started
To get started, you will need a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically designed for dogs.
1. Dog toothbrush
There are two common types:
- Handheld toothbrushes with a specially modified head.
- Finger toothbrushes that slip over your finger for easy brushing.
Ensure you select a toothbrush that is an appropriate size for your dog's mouth.
2. Dog toothpaste
- Use pet-specific toothpaste: Only use toothpaste formulated for pets. Human toothpaste often contains ingredients that can be harmful to dogs if ingested.
- Pet toothpastes come in various flavours like mint, vanilla, poultry, or cheese. These tasty flavours help make the brushing experience more enjoyable for your dog, which can increase their cooperation.
A step-by-step guide to brushing your dog's teeth
It's important to take each of these steps slowly, and only progress to the next one when your pet is comfortable.
Start with handling:
- Practice daily at a separate time from brushing.
- Gently rub your dog's muzzle and practice lifting their lips.
- Reward with praise and treats.
Introduce pet toothpaste:
- In a quiet setting, let your dog lick a small amount of pet toothpaste from your finger.
- If they are hesitant, dab a tiny amount on their nose.
Simulate brushing:
- Use a soft cotton tip to gently rub a few teeth and the gumline.
- To build a positive association, you can first dip the tip in bone broth or wet food, then progress to adding toothpaste.
Introduce the toothbrush:
- Start with a finger brush or soft-bristled brush.
- Brush just a few teeth at a time, starting with broth or wet food on the brush if needed, before adding toothpaste.
Establish the brushing routine:
- Combine the steps into a daily habit.
- Gently hold their head and lift the lip (no need to open the mouth).
- Apply a small amount of pet toothpaste.
- Use a circular motion, focusing on the outer surface and gumline.
- Prioritise the canine (fang) teeth and large back cheek teeth, where plaque builds up most.
- Gradually build up to 30 seconds per side.
- Optional: Use a dental gel or rinse after brushing.
Tips for dogs that resist brushing
Every dog is different. While the steps above provide an excellent overview, here are some more specific tips to implement according to your pooch's personality.
Additional tips and precautions
- Watch for discomfort: Monitor your dog's body language. If they show stress, fear, or anxiety, stop and try again later.
- Be gentle: Avoid the back of the mouth to prevent gagging. Be careful around the gums and stop if you notice bleeding or pain.
- Never use force: Forcing your dog will create negative associations. Always use positive reinforcement and rewards.
- Brush when your dog is calm: Choose a quiet, distraction-free area. A stressed or overly excited dog will be less cooperative.
- Use only gentle restraint: If needed for a bouncy dog, a second person can help hold them lightly. Stop immediately if they show signs of fear, as a dog that feels trapped may lash out.
Other ways to support your dog's dental health
While vets consider tooth brushing to be the 'gold standard' dental homecare method, there are a range of other products you can use alongside brushing to promote pearly whites.
Alternative methods of dental care are discussed in detail in our article Dental Care for Dogs.
Alternate Dental Care Products
When to see the vet about your dog's teeth
Home care is essential, but it does not replace professional dental checks.
- Healthy adult dogs: Need an annual dental check-up.
- Senior dogs or those with a history of dental disease: Need a check-up every 6 months.
Tooth brushing is for prevention and cannot reverse moderate to severe dental disease that is already present. Even with a good routine, plaque can still build up.
Signs of dental disease:
- Foul-smelling or 'fishy' breath
- Discoloured or stained teeth
- Red, inflamed, or bleeding gums
If you notice any of these signs, a vet visit is necessary.
Professional veterinary dental cleaning
If your dog has gingivitis or extensive tartar, no amount of home care can fix it. They will require a professional "scale and polish" at the vet.
- What it involves: Under anaesthesia, a vet uses dental equipment to scale off tartar and polish the teeth, thoroughly cleaning beneath the gumline where plaque and bacteria hide.
- Anaesthesia is essential: This is the only way to safely and thoroughly clean and examine all tooth surfaces, especially under the gums.
- Warning: Avoid "anaesthesia-free" or "gentle dentals." These procedures are purely cosmetic, cannot clean under the gumline, and are not a substitute for proper veterinary dental care.
FAQs
Regular toothbrushing is the most effective way to prevent dental disease and support your dog's overall health. By following these steps with patience and positive reinforcement, you can make dental care a positive part of your dog's daily routine. If you notice signs of existing dental issues, such as bad breath or red gums, or if you are struggling with the process, always consult your veterinarian for advice.
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History
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
Wed 5 Nov 2025
Edited by Dr Gillian Hill BVSc (Hons)Dr Carla Paszkowski BVSc (Hons)
Veterinarian
Dr. Carla graduated from the University of Queensland in 2013 with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science and worked for a number of years in small animal clinics across South East Queensland. While Carla enjoys most facets of clinical veterinary work, she holds a special passion for feline medicine, pocket pets, and nutrition.
