A dog toothbrush is an important tool for your pet’s oral hygiene.
© @Shutterstock Ekaterina Brusnika
Best dog toothbrushes in 2024
Brushing your dog's teeth is an essential part of their oral hygiene. But you will need the right tool for the job! A good dog toothbrush is essential for preventing plaque and tartar formation.
Healthy teeth are vital to a dog’s overall health. Regular cleaning with a special dog toothpaste and toothbrush is the best way to keep your pet's teeth and gums healthy. Depending on your pet's docility and your availability, you can find a variety of dog toothbrushes, ranging from the traditional brush to the dog toothbrush toy and the finger brushes. Some are even edible!
However, it is important to get your dog used to this procedure at a young age. Fortunately, there are brushes designed specifically for puppies' small teeth. Your pet will have a healthy mouth and fresh breath for a long time if you take care of it and use a dog toothbrush.
Summary
What types of dog toothbrushes are there?
There are various types of dog toothbrushes to meet the needs of all owners:
- The traditional toothbrush with a plastic handle and a nylon bristle head
- Toothbrushes with two different sized heads to suit all breeds
- Dog toothbrushes made of natural silicone
- Finger brushes with or without spikes for use on the index finger
Chewing sticks are a special type of treat that allows dogs to clean their teeth. Some are shaped like brushes.
There are also dog toothbrush toys made of very firm rubber that dogs can chew on for hours.
What should I look out for when buying a dog toothbrush?
If this is your first time brushing your dog's teeth, use a silicone toothbrush or finger brush. These tools are softer and less likely to cause injury. They are also easily washable, which is important from a sanitary point of view.
If you buy a traditional dog toothbrush, make sure it suits the size of your dog. Most have two different sized heads to fit all breeds and even puppy teeth.
If you have a large dog, make sure the handle is long enough to reach the bottom teeth.
It might be a good idea to buy your dog toothbrushes in sets so that you can easily replace them when they become worn.
How do I brush my dog's teeth?
With a finger brush, simply insert your index finger between the lips and the teeth and gently massage the teeth and the gums.
With a toothbrush, start with the front teeth (incisors and fangs) and then lift the lip to clean the molars. Proceed in the same manner as you would for yourself, using gentle up and down strokes.
Brushing your dog's teeth will be more effective if you use special dog toothpaste. Never use the same toothpaste you use for yourself. Dog toothpaste is non-toxic to dogs and does not require rinsing.
How often should I brush my dog's teeth?
Brush your dog's teeth at least twice a week, preferably every day. It is estimated that effective brushing should last at least 30 seconds on each side.
Smaller breeds such as Bichons, Shih-Tzus and Cotons de Tulear are most likely to develop periodontal disease. They need daily dental care.
On the other hand, large dogs such as Golden Retrievers are less prone to developing tartar. For them, regular chew sticks or a dog toothbrush toy may be sufficient.
At what age can I start brushing my puppy's teeth?
It is best to get started as soon as possible. You can start brushing your puppy's teeth when they are 3-4 months old. The teeth are still baby teeth at this age, and they will fall out and be replaced by permanent teeth, just like in children.
Use a very soft toothbrush that is suited to your puppy's small mouth. Do not try to rush the animal. Gradually introduce them to this oral hygiene routine.
With a little patience and practice, brushing your dog's teeth can become a wonderful bonding experience.
