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Dental care for dogs

Most dogs over three have some dental disease. Daily brushing is the single best prevention.

Why it matters

Plaque hardens into tartar, which drives gum inflammation, pain and tooth loss — and the bacteria strain organs like the heart and kidneys. Bad breath is usually the first sign, not something to shrug off.

Build a brushing habit

Use a soft toothbrush and dog toothpaste — never human toothpaste. Start with seconds of lifting the lip and touching teeth, reward generously, and work up to daily brushing of the outer surfaces.

When to see the vet

Drooling, dropping food, chewing on one side or a sudden reluctance to be touched around the mouth warrant a dental check. Many dogs need professional cleaning under anesthesia at some point — it is routine care, not a failure.

Test yourself: Dental care

What is the most effective way to prevent dental disease?
  1. Feeding only dry food
  2. Regular tooth brushing with dog toothpaste
  3. Giving a dental treat once a week

Correct answer: Regular tooth brushing with dog toothpaste

Daily or frequent brushing with dog-safe toothpaste is the gold standard for preventing plaque and tartar.

Why should you never use human toothpaste on a dog?
  1. It tastes too minty for dogs
  2. It is too expensive
  3. It can contain fluoride and xylitol that are toxic to dogs

Correct answer: It can contain fluoride and xylitol that are toxic to dogs

Human toothpaste may contain xylitol and other ingredients dogs should not swallow; use dog toothpaste.

What is a sign of dental problems?
  1. Bad breath, red gums or reluctance to chew
  2. A wet nose
  3. Wagging the tail at mealtimes

Correct answer: Bad breath, red gums or reluctance to chew

Foul breath, inflamed gums, tartar and dropping food can all signal painful dental disease needing a vet.

What does a professional dental cleaning at the vet usually require?
  1. General anesthesia to clean below the gumline
  2. Nothing, the dog just sits still
  3. Only a change of food

Correct answer: General anesthesia to clean below the gumline

A proper scale and polish, including below the gumline, is done under anesthesia; awake cleanings are only cosmetic.

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