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We make a routine out of brushing our teeth every day, but many dog owners don’t brush their dogs’ teeth at all. Periodontal disease is the most common clinical condition in adult dogs according to the AKC Canine Health Foundation. So, to help prevent illness and keep your dog healthy, it’s important to brush your dog’s teeth. Although many dogs may not like having their teeth brushed at first, finding the right dog toothpaste, introducing it slowly, and being consistent with brushing your dog’s teeth can help it become second nature.
To help owners improve their dogs’ oral health, we’ve put together picks for the best dog toothpaste options that come in a range of flavors, types, and consistencies. We’re sure you’ll find what works best for you and your dog.
What You Need to Know About Dog Toothpaste
Before diving into dog toothpaste product picks, it’s essential to cover some basics about canine periodontal disease. First, periodontal disease is a disease of the teeth and gums in dogs that’s caused by plaque and gingivitis. Food particles and bacteria accumulate along your dog’s gum line and form plaque. Not only can periodontal disease affect your dog’s mouth, but it also can carry bacteria into the bloodstream, and these bacteria are associated with canine cardiovascular disease. Periodontal disease can make it difficult for your dog to eat, as well as affect your dog’s cardiovascular health.
So, brushing your dog’s teeth is of the best things you can do to for your dog’s overall health and wellness. Typically you can clean your dog’s teeth with a toothbrush designed for dogs, and of course, dog toothpaste. Most types of dog toothpaste contain ingredients that help clean away stains and plaque. A specific kind of dog toothpaste called enzymatic dog toothpaste contains enzymes that help reduce bacteria, which can lessen tartar buildup and improve bad breath.
The most important thing to remember about brushing your dog’s teeth is never use human toothpaste on your dog. Many human toothpastes contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that can be fatal to dogs. Xylitol can cause blood sugar drops in dogs, as well as potential liver damage. Always choose a toothpaste specifically formulated for dogs.
Top-Rated Dog Toothpaste
If your dog is picky with flavors or tastes, this is the brand for you. This Virbac enzymatic dog toothpaste is great for safely and effectively brushing dogs teeth and comes in five different flavors. This toothpaste contains the C.E.T. dual enzyme system and is formulated for both dogs and cats to provide natural antibacterial action, remove plaque, and prevent tartar formation. Additionally, this toothpaste helps eliminate mouth odors and contains no foaming agents — meaning it is safe for pets to swallow. The 3.2-ounce tube is manufactured in the USA and comes in the following flavors: Poultry, malt, beef, seafood, and vanilla-mint.
Verified reviews rave about the effect this toothpaste has had not only on their dogs’ teeth but also on their attitude toward brushing. Reviewers say that the toothpaste makes their dogs’ teeth notably whiter and cleaner. Moreover, reviewers report that dogs who previously didn’t like having their teeth brushed because of the taste, didn’t mind this toothpaste. Some customers, however, also report that this toothpaste can “go bad” quickly, so it’s essential to use it consistently once you buy it.
Best Organic Dog Toothpaste
Radius Organic Dental Solutions Kit
If you’re looking for an all-in-one solution, you’ll want to check out this Dental Solutions Kit, which includes dog toothpaste and a toothbrush. The toothpaste in the kit is USDA certified organic and made in the USA. It’s also free from chemicals, dyes, preservatives, and artificial additives. This dog toothpaste will safely freshen your dog’s breath, remove tartar, and fight plaque. The toothpaste comes in a gel form in a 0.8-ounce tube. The kit also includes an easy-to-hold toothbrush with bristles so that you can gently clean your dog’s teeth and massage your pup’s gums.
This organic dog dental kit is Amazon’s top choice for organic toothpaste for dogs. Additionally, customer reviews say this dog toothpaste is effective, easy to use, and smells great. Users share the toothbrush is easy to hold, and their dogs tolerated the brushing much better than on other occasions. The only complaint that users seem to have is that the toothpaste tube is small.
Veterinary Oral Health Council Approved Dog Toothpaste
Petsmile Professional Dog Toothpaste
If you want to keep your dog’s teeth cleaned but are concerned about the brushing process, you’ll want to take a look at this toothpaste. The Veterinary Oral Health Council approves Petsmile Professional Dog Toothpaste. The toothpaste contains an ingredient called Calprox, which is proven to safely prevent plaque, fight bacteria, and improve bad breath. This dog toothpaste is meant to be used two to three times per week and requires no toothbrush. Owners can simply use the finger applicator to rub the paste on their dog’s teeth.
The Petsmile toothpaste contains safe ingredients and is free of fluoride, parabens, sulfates, and other ingredients that could be harmful to dogs. The toothpaste comes in a 4.5-ounce tube and is “London broil” flavored to appeal to dogs. Customers who have reviewed this product say it’s easy to use and works well. Reviewers also say their dogs seem to like the taste and are less resistant to brushing with this paste. Some reviewers also feel, however, that this toothpaste is expensive compared to other products on the market.
Additionally, a few reviewers mention that the ingredients can separate when stored in the tube, so it’s helpful to shake it before use.
Best Toothpaste for Dogs or Cats
Vetoquinol Enzadent Enzymatic Toothpaste for Dogs
Multispecies households — this is the pet-safe toothpaste for you. This enzymatic toothpaste from Vetoquinal is not only great for dogs but cats as well. The toothpaste contains a triple enzyme formula created to remove food particles and plaque from your dog’s teeth. This dog toothpaste also helps eliminate bacteria and improve bad breath. The product is non-foaming and safe to swallow. The toothpaste is poultry-flavored, designed specifically for dogs and cats to like the taste. The tube is 3.2-ounces and can be used with a finger brush or regular toothbrush.
The Vetoquinol Enzadent Enzymatic Toothpaste has been named Amazon’s choice for pet toothpaste and boasts an incredible 4.8 out of five stars for average reviews. Verified reviewers who own dogs and cats alike say this toothpaste works well. Many reviewers say their picky dog or pet who didn’t like teeth brushing love this toothpaste. Reviewers also feel that the tube is a decent size. There aren’t many real critiques of this dog toothpaste, a few reviewers who think it’s “just OK.”
Most Affordable Dog Toothpaste
Petrodex Enzymatic Toothpaste for Dogs
With a sizable 6.2-ounce tube, it’s hard to find a better value than this dog toothpaste from Petrodex. This Petrodex Enzymatic toothpaste is made with patented enzymes, is non-foaming, and does not require rinsing. The toothpaste is designed to reduce plaque and tartar, as well as fight bad breath. This dog toothpaste is poultry-flavored and is recommended to be used two to three times per week with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Verified reviewers like how effective this toothpaste is at removing plaque and preventing tartar buildup, with many dog owners posting pictures to demonstrate. Many reviewers also write that their dogs love the taste. The most constant complaint owners have about this toothpaste, however, is that it smells. You might have to consider the trade-off, therefore of the smell versus the value and effectiveness of this dog toothpaste.
Easiest No-Brushing Dog Toothpaste to Use
Tropiclean Fresh Breath Teeth Gel
If brushing your dog’s teeth is a huge hassle, this is the brushless dog teeth-cleaning product for you. All you have to do is apply two drops of this gel to each side of your dog’s mouth daily, and the oral care gel itself does the rest. The dog tooth gel works to help reduce plaque, tartar, and soothe irritated gums. This Tropiclean tooth gel is made with green tea and natural ingredients all sourced in the United States. It is also safe for both dogs and cats. You can buy this tooth gel in a single pack, with a 4-ounce tube, or in a pack of two.
Verified reviews of this particular dog tooth gel are more mixed than others. However, reviewers who liked this product say that it works exceptionally well for plaque and tartar buildup and is easy to use with dog’s who don’t like having their teeth brushed. Some reviewers, on the other hand, say their dogs did not like the taste and others state it caused stomach upset. If you have concerns about any dog toothpaste, consult your veterinarian before buying.
Favorite Peanut-Flavored Dog Toothpaste
For an out-of-the-box flavor and one your dog might enjoy, you might consider this Nylabone peanut-flavored dog toothpaste. This natural peanut-flavored toothpaste similarly encourages your dog to tolerate teeth brushing. The toothpaste is made with Denta-C, a blend of ingredients created to reduce plaque and tartar buildup. This Nylabone dog toothpaste comes in a 2.5-ounce tube.
Similarly to other dog toothpaste brands in more “meaty” flavors, some verified reviewers say their dogs love the peanut taste, while others don’t like it. Reviewers generally feel, however, that the toothpaste is effective, making teeth cleaner and whiter.
Best Toothpaste for Dogs and Puppies
Arm & Hammer Clinical Gum Health Enzymatic Toothpaste
For a toothpaste for dogs and puppies, this Arm & Hammer Enzymatic toothpaste is safe and gentle. The toothpaste contains baking soda, which cleans and deodorizes while the included-enzymes fight tartar. With other natural ingredients, this toothpaste also eliminates bad breath and brightens teeth, as well as soothe sensitive and inflamed gums. The Arm & Hammer toothpaste comes in a 2.5-ounce tube and is chicken flavored (with a fresh mint scent). Customer reviews say this toothpaste works well — even for those who said their dog didn’t particularly like the taste. Some reviewers, on the other hand, say their dogs’ like the taste and helps prevent expensive veterinarian cleanings.
Favorite Dog Toothpaste Made in the USA
Vet’s Best Gel Toothpaste
Made in the USA, Vet’s Best Gel Toothpaste is formulated by veterinarians with natural ingredients. These ingredients, including neem oil, grapefruit seed, and aloe, help keep your dog’s breath fresh and teeth healthy. The toothpaste formula also has both antibacterial and antifungal qualities. You can use this toothpaste gel to brush your dog’s teeth with a toothbrush or with your finger. Vet’s Best dog toothpaste comes in a 3.5-ounce tube. Customer reviews of this toothpaste say that it has improved their dogs’ breath, reduced plaque, and is a good value.