Dental, Pet Care Basics

How to Brush Dog Teeth

Brushing your dog’s teeth is an important part of dog dental care. Studies show that 80 percent of pets have periodontal disease by the age of three. The key is to start brushing your pet’s teeth at a young age. This will help familiarize them to brushing and prevent future dental and gum problems.

Dog Dental Care

Step 1 – Gradually introduce your dog to a brushing program. These sessions should be kept short. Do not over-restrain your pet during the process. Praise and reassure your pet throughout the entire process.

Step 2 – Get your pet used to you having your hand in his mouth. Dip your finger into beef bouillon for dogs or tuna water for cats. Rub your soaked finger gently over the pet’s gum and teeth. Remember to make this session short and positive.

Note: If you struggle to keep your dog’s mouth open while brushing their teeth, you’re not alone. Many pet owners find dental care difficult because dogs instinctively want to close their mouths or chew during brushing. A hands-free mouth opener such as a BiteBlock can be a game changer—it gently holds your dog’s jaw open, making it easier to reach all areas of the mouth for a more thorough clean. It also helps prevent accidental bites, especially during those hard-to-reach back molars. Safe for adult dogs and gentle enough for puppies with baby teeth, this simple dental tool helps reduce stress for both you and your pet during at-home oral care.

Step 3 – When comfortable with your finger, gradually introduce gauze over your finger with pet friendly toothpaste applied to it. Lift the lips to expose the outside surface of the teeth. Gently scrub the teeth in a circular motion. Do not use toothpaste meant for humans as your pet will not like the foaminess. They cannot spit and rinse after using it, and it will upset their tummies. There are a lot of good dog toothpastes and dental products designed for pets.

Step 4 – Now you can finally introduce a toothbrush to your pet. Use a soft nylon toothbrush designed specifically for pets. Brush in small circles, overlapping the teeth and gums. The most important part to brush is the where the gum attaches to the tooth. Use water additives, chews or gels in-between brushings to prevent plaque buildup.

If you have more questions on dog dental care, call us at 800.786.4751.

Written by: Donald Bramlage, DVM

Donald Bramlage, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, practiced veterinary medicine for 30+ years and is known for his work in managing parvovirus. He received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Kansas State University in 1985. He served as Revival’s Director of Veterinary Services from 2011 until his retirement in 2019.