Let’s get real about a topic nobody loves: dog teeth. It’s easy to overlook dog dental health and care, but the truth is, once a dog’s teeth start to go bad, it can lead to bigger, more expensive problems down the road. But before you start stressing, you should know that keeping your pup’s chompers healthy doesn’t have to be a battle.
You don’t need a single solution; the best approach is to find a combination of tools that your dog will actually cooperate with. As an industry insider, I’ve seen it all, and these are the products and methods that actually work.
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The Gold Standard: Brushing 101
While your dog may not love it, brushing their teeth is the most effective way to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Think of it as the ultimate line of defense. The physical act of brushing gets rid of all the gunk before it has a chance to harden into bigger problems. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), Regularly brushing your pet’s teeth is the single most effective thing you can do to keep their teeth healthy between dental cleanings.
Enzymatic Toothpaste: You can’t just use human toothpaste on a dog. Dog toothpaste is specially formulated to be swallowed and contains enzymes that break down plaque. Products like Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste and Petrodex Enzymatic Toothpaste are top-tier choices that come in dog-friendly flavors like poultry to make brushing a bit easier.
The Right Toothbrush: You wouldn’t use a toothbrush meant for a horse, so don’t use the wrong one for your dog! You can use a classic two-sided brush for large and small dogs, or even a finger brush if you want to get a better feel for things.
Brushless Enzymatic Toothpaste: If your pup doesn’t let you brush their teeth for long enough, this Oratene Enzymatic Brushless Toothpaste from Zymox is a great dog dental health solution that just needs to be applied to the teeth and gums.
Simple Dog Dental Health Solutions: When All Else Fails
If your dog won’t let you near their mouth with a brush or a treat, these products are your secret weapon. They are a great way to help prevent plaque buildup with minimal effort.
Water Additives: For dogs who are picky with chew treats and won’t let you brush, a water additive is a game-changer. You simply add it to your dog’s drinking water, and the enzymes go to work breaking down plaque every time they take a sip. ZYMOX Oratene Water Additive is a great option.
Seaweed Flakes: This one may seem a little weird, but it’s effective. You sprinkle a small amount of ProDen PlaqueOff Powder on your dog’s food once a day. The natural seaweed powder is absorbed into the bloodstream and works to break down plaque and tartar from the inside out, tackling bad breath right at the source.
Chew on This: Dental Treats That Do More
Dental chews are a popular and easy option because most dogs are already on board with getting a treat. But not all chews are created equal. Here are a couple of our favorites.
Sustainable Chews: Brands like Shameless Pets make tasty dental chews that use upcycled ingredients, which is a great win for both your dog’s teeth and the planet. These sticks help scrub away plaque as your dog chews.
Enzymatic Chews: The gold standard for chews is a product with added enzymes. Vets love to recommend products like ORAVET Dental Chews because they physically clean the teeth and also release a plaque-fighting sealant. Just be sure to get the right size for your dog, these come in Extra Small (3.5-9lbs), Small (10-24lbs), Medium (25-50lbs), and Large (over 50lbs)!
Dog Dental Health: The Takeaway
The most important thing to remember about dog dental health is that it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. The best option is the one that works for you and your dog, and often a combination is most effective. Whether you’re brushing every day or simply adding a scoop of seaweed powder to their food, every little bit helps keep their smile healthy and bright for years to come.
For more trusted tips and guides on keeping your dog healthy from head to tail, check out our full Pet Health & Wellness category.
