Can You Put Dog Toothpaste on A Chew Toy?

Brushing your dog's teeth at home to keep their teeth healthy is essential to their overall health. As a pet owner, this means you have to get your hands dirty cleaning your pet's teeth! As with most activities, it's best to get your pet's teeth brushed when they're still a puppy so they're used to the routine, but it's still possible for older dogs to learn new dental care best practices!

How to Brush Your Dog's Teeth

1. Buy a Dog Toothbrush

Dog toothbrushes are smaller and have softer bristles than human toothbrushes. Depending on the size of your dog, you can use a child's toothbrush, or if your dog is smaller, a finger toothbrush may be a better option.

2. Choose a Dog Toothpaste

Available in flavors like chicken and beef, dog toothpaste is designed to fight plaque and tartar while still being tasty for your pet. Don't use human toothpaste on your dog because it contains ingredients that are designed to be spit out, which your dog won't do.

3. Get your dog used to you touching their mouth

Start by gently rubbing their muzzle with your finger. Then gently touch their teeth and gums to get them used to you interacting with the inside and outside of their mouth. You may want to spend a few days doing this step before you actually start brushing your dog’s teeth.

4. Give your dog a taste of toothpaste and show them the toothbrush

Getting your dog familiar with these items will encourage them to not be afraid of this new activity. You can try putting some toothpaste on a toothbrush and letting your dog eat it, as the delicious taste will make them eager to start the process.

5. Choose the right time

Brush your dog’s teeth when you are both relaxed. Try to make the process a pleasant one for your pet, for example, crouch down when brushing your dog’s teeth instead of standing in front of them.

6. Start brushing your dog’s teeth in small circles

Start with the easiest teeth to reach and work your way up to their other teeth until you both feel more confident with the process. Remember to brush all inner and outer surfaces and along the entire gum line to remove the plaque that accumulates on the teeth every day. Praise your dog’s good behavior throughout the brushing process.

7. Spend two minutes brushing your dog’s teeth every day

Incorporate this activity into your daily routine so they get used to cleaning their teeth, which can help fight dental disease.

8. Reward your dog after each brushing

Giving them a little dental treat or their favorite toy will help your dog associate brushing with a positive memory, making them more willing to do the activity each time.

Brushing your dog’s teeth every day is the best way to keep them free of dental disease, but you can also incorporate other activities into their daily routine to clean your dog’s teeth at home. Feeding your dog dental food (prescribed by your veterinarian) and providing them with a variety of dental chew toys and dental treats are fun ways to remove plaque.