Dog Dental Care: How to Keep Your Dog's Teeth Healthy
Dog dental care is something many owners overlook until there is a problem. Yet dental disease is the single most common health condition diagnosed in dogs, with around 80% of dogs over the age of three showing some degree of it. The good news is that most dental problems are entirely preventable with the right habits started early.
Healthy teeth are not just cosmetic. Bacteria from dental disease can enter the bloodstream and, over time, affect the heart, kidneys, and liver. Looking after your dog's teeth is genuinely one of the most important things you can do for their long-term health.
How dental disease develops in dogs
It starts with plaque, the soft bacterial film that forms on teeth after eating. If plaque is not removed, it hardens into tartar (also called calculus) within days. Tartar is rough, yellow or brown in colour, and cannot be brushed away at home once formed.
From there, tartar causes inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and, if left untreated, progresses to periodontitis: damage to the structures holding the teeth in place. Small breeds and brachycephalic dogs such as pugs, French bulldogs, and shih tzus are particularly prone because their teeth are crowded together in a small jaw.
Signs of dental problems in dogs
Dental disease is often silent in its early stages. Signs to watch for:
Bad breath (more than the usual 'dog breath')
Yellow or brown buildup on the teeth, especially near the gumline
Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
Drooling more than usual
Pawing at the mouth
Dropping food or being reluctant to chew on one side
Loose or missing teeth
If you notice any of these, book a vet appointment. Your vet can assess the extent of the disease and advise on next steps.
Dog dental care: how to brush your dog's teeth
Daily brushing is the single most effective way to prevent dog dental disease. Most dogs adapt well with a gentle, gradual introduction.
What you need: A dog-specific toothbrush and dog toothpaste. Never use human toothpaste, which contains fluoride and often xylitol, both toxic to dogs.
Start by letting your dog lick a small amount of dog toothpaste from your finger. Move on to gently rubbing your finger along the outside of the teeth and gums. Introduce the toothbrush gradually, starting with just a few seconds. Build up to brushing all outer surfaces using small circular movements.
Aim for a daily routine, keep it short and positive, and reward generously with praise or a small treat afterwards. If you have a puppy, start dental care as early as possible.
What else helps with dog dental care
If daily brushing is not achievable, or as a complement to it, several other options have evidence behind them:
Dental chews and treats. Look for products carrying the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) seal, which means they have been independently tested and shown to reduce plaque or tartar.
Dental diets. Some dog foods are specifically designed to clean teeth as the dog chews. Ask your vet if this is appropriate for your dog.
Water additives and dental wipes. These can help reduce bacterial buildup and are useful for dogs who strongly resist brushing.
Professional cleaning. When tartar has already built up, the only way to remove it is a professional descale under general anaesthesia at the vet. For dogs with significant accumulation, this is usually recommended once a year.
When to see a vet
Book a check-up if your dog has bad breath that does not improve, visible tartar, red or swollen gums, or is showing signs of mouth discomfort. Ask your vet to assess your dog's teeth at every routine appointment.
How often should I brush my dog's teeth?
Ideally every day, or at least several times a week. The more frequently you brush, the less plaque has time to harden into tartar.
What happens if I do not brush my dog's teeth?
Plaque builds up and hardens into tartar, which leads to gum disease, pain, tooth loss, and potentially infections that can affect other organs.
Are dental chews enough on their own?
For most dogs, dental chews alone are not sufficient. They work best alongside brushing. Look for the VOHC seal when choosing a chew.
Do smaller dogs have worse teeth?
Generally, yes. Small breeds tend to have more crowded teeth and are more prone to tartar buildup and dental disease than larger breeds.
Starting dental care now, whatever your dog's age, will make a difference. It takes only a few minutes a day, and the benefits for your dog's health and comfort are significant. Lassie covers dental treatments as part of your dog's care, so you can get the professional help your dog needs without worrying about the cost.
