How to Brush Your Dog's Teeth Step by Step
Why Brushing Your Dog's Teeth Matters
Dental disease is the most common health problem in adult dogs — affecting over 80% of dogs by age three. Plaque builds up daily, hardens into tartar within 72 hours, and if left untreated leads to gingivitis, tooth loss, and bacteria entering the bloodstream affecting the heart, kidneys, and liver. Daily brushing is the single most effective way to prevent this.
What You'll Need
- Dog-specific toothpaste: Never use human toothpaste — xylitol and fluoride are toxic to dogs. Dog toothpastes are enzymatic and safe to swallow.
- A toothbrush or finger brush: Finger brushes give more control for beginners and anxious dogs.
- High-value treats: To reward calm behaviour throughout.
- Patience: Most dogs need 2–4 weeks of gradual introduction before tolerating brushing.
The TinPaw Pet Dental Toothpaste is enzymatic, safe to swallow, and comes in a palatable flavour dogs accept readily — making the introduction process significantly easier.
Step-by-Step: How to Brush Your Dog's Teeth
Step 1: Get Your Dog Comfortable With Your Hands Near Their Mouth
Before introducing any tools, spend a few days simply lifting your dog's lips and touching their teeth and gums with your finger. Reward generously after each session. This alone can take 3–5 days for anxious dogs.
Step 2: Introduce the Toothpaste
Let your dog lick a small amount of toothpaste off your finger. Most dogs treat it like a treat. Do this for 2–3 days until they actively look forward to it.
Step 3: Introduce the Finger Brush
Apply a small amount of toothpaste to the finger wipe or brush and gently rub it along the outer surfaces of the back teeth — this is where tartar builds up fastest. Keep sessions to 15–20 seconds initially.
Step 4: Progress to a Full Brush
Once your dog tolerates the finger brush, transition to a standard dog toothbrush. Hold it at a 45-degree angle to the gum line and use small circular motions. Focus on the outer surfaces — the tongue naturally cleans the inner surfaces.
Aim to cover all teeth in under 2 minutes. Always end on a positive note with a treat or play session.
Step 5: Build a Daily Routine
Consistency is everything. Attach brushing to an existing daily habit — after the morning walk, before bed, or after their evening meal. Dogs thrive on routine and most learn to accept, or even anticipate, brushing within a month.
Alternatives If Your Dog Refuses Brushing
For dogs that won't tolerate a brush even after patient introduction, these alternatives help maintain oral hygiene:
- Dental spray: Sprayed directly onto the teeth, the TinPaw Dental Spray reduces bacteria and freshens breath without any brushing required.
- Dental powder: Added to food daily, dental powder works enzymatically to break down plaque from the inside out.
- Dental chews: Mechanical chewing action removes surface plaque. Most effective when used daily.
How Often Should You Brush?
Daily is ideal. Every other day is acceptable. Once a week provides minimal benefit compared to daily brushing. If you can only commit to one thing for your dog's dental health, make it daily brushing.
When to See a Vet
Even with excellent home care, most dogs benefit from a professional dental clean under anaesthetic every 1–3 years. Signs that warrant an immediate vet visit: bleeding gums, loose or broken teeth, visible tartar build-up, or reluctance to eat hard food.
