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By Judyvein Cheng, CPCN, BRNC
Certified pet nutritionist in Singapore
QUICK ANSWER
Brushing is the single best thing you can do for your dog's teeth, and it protects far more than their smile. Plaque bacteria can travel through the bloodstream to the heart, liver and kidneys. The secret to brushing is going slowly: get your dog comfortable one step at a time, use a natural toothpaste they love, and keep it positive.
Why it matters
Teeth and gums
Plaque and tartar breed bacteria, causing bad breath, receding gums, cavities and tooth loss.
Heart
Oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream. Periodontal disease is linked to a higher risk of heart conditions in dogs, such as endocarditis and valve disease.
Liver and kidneys
These organs filter the blood, so they're vulnerable when oral bacteria spread through the body.
"Doesn't kibble clean their teeth?"
A common belief is that kibble cleans teeth naturally. In reality, kibble may scrape off a little tartar, but it has no real cleaning power. Once chewed, dry food becomes sticky in the mouth, which encourages bacteria to grow. Kibble is also high in carbohydrates, which feed the bacteria behind dental disease. Brushing is still needed.
What you'll need
✓ A natural, pet-safe toothpaste. Never use human toothpaste, as it can contain xylitol, which is toxic to pets. Avoid toothpastes with artificial preservatives, silica, baking soda or artificial flavours. Coconut oil makes a great base: try my DIY probiotic toothpaste, or mix in Dr Judy Morgan's dental drops or Animal Essentials Healthy Gum.
✓ A brush that suits your dog: a soft dog toothbrush, gauze wrapped around your finger, or an electric or ultrasonic pet toothbrush, which is gentle and needs no scrubbing.
✓ Dental floss picks (optional), for cleaning between the teeth.
✓ Treats and praise.
Step by step
Set a calm mood. Play soothing music and take a few deep breaths yourself. Dogs pick up on your energy, especially the first few times.
Introduce the brush slowly. For nervous dogs, let them sniff it, leave it around the house, and touch their teeth and gums with your finger first before bringing in the brush.
Let them taste the paste. Let them lick it off your finger so they learn to love it.
Brush gently along the teeth and gum line in small circles, praising them all the way. Focus on the back teeth, where plaque builds up most.
Go a section at a time. For anxious or senior dogs, do just a quarter of the mouth per session, and always end on a good note.
Store homemade paste in a glass jar, and scoop out only what you need each time with a clean spoon, so the jar doesn't get contaminated.
FROM MY EXPERIENCE
This is how I brush BeanBean's teeth. First, I wipe her teeth and gums with JOOF Hygiene Water on a cotton tissue. Then I floss her teeth with single-use dental floss picks. Finally, I brush with an electric toothbrush and her dental remedy mixed into coconut oil.
When we adopted her, she had grade 3 periodontal disease. Today her vet says she can be considered grade 2. Read her full story in coconut oil for dogs' teeth.
Making it a habit
Brush at the same time each day, and clean with JOOF Hygiene Water after other meals and snacks. Most dogs get used to brushing, and some even come to enjoy it. For the full routine, see my 5-step routine for cleaner, healthier teeth.
Frequently asked questions
My dog hates having their mouth touched. What can I do?
Go back a step and go slower. Probiotic popsicles or a water additive can help while you build trust. See the DIY probiotic toothpaste for ideas.
How often should I brush?
Daily is ideal. Twice a day is even better for dogs with existing dental issues.
Does this work for cats?
Yes, with a finger brush or gauze and lots of patience.
Shop this article
This article is for educational purposes and isn't a substitute for veterinary care. If you're concerned about your pet's health, please seek professional advice.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Judyvein Cheng, CPCN, BRNC
Judyvein is a Certified Professional Canine Nutritionist and Certified Raw Nutrition Coach for Cats & Dogs, and the founder of JOOF Holistic Pet. Her journey began with her Frenchie, Wangcai, and today she helps pet parents in Singapore take a root-cause approach to their pets' health.
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