How Do you Start Brushing Your Dog's Teeth?

Brushing your dog’s teeth is one of the most important—and often overlooked—parts of their overall health. But if your dog isn’t used to having their mouth handled, don’t expect them to sit still for a full brushing right away.

The key is to start slow, keep it positive, and build trust.

Begin by simply letting your dog sniff the toothbrush and taste the dog-friendly toothpaste (never use human toothpaste—it contains ingredients that are toxic to dogs, like xylitol). Start with just a dab of toothpaste on your finger and let them lick it off. Most pet-safe toothpastes come in dog-approved flavors like chicken or peanut butter, which makes this step easy and enjoyable for most pups.

Next, try gently lifting their lips and touching their teeth and gums with your finger. If they’re okay with that, reward them with lots of praise and maybe a small treat. If they pull away, that’s okay—stop, try again later, and always end on a positive note. Keep these first sessions to just 30 seconds or so. The goal is to help your dog associate tooth brushing with a positive experience, not stress.

Once your dog is comfortable with you touching their mouth, introduce a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for dogs or a finger brush. Focus on the outer surfaces of the teeth and aim for a gentle circular motion. You don’t have to get every tooth on the first few tries. In fact, even brushing a few teeth at a time is better than nothing, and consistency matters more than thoroughness in the beginning.

Try to work up to brushing at least 2–3 times a week, though daily brushing is ideal. If your dog absolutely refuses to tolerate brushing, there are dental wipes, water additives, and dental chews that can help reduce plaque buildup—though they aren’t as effective as brushing.

Dental disease can lead to serious health problems, including infections and organ damage, so starting a brushing routine early is one of the best ways to protect your dog’s long-term health.

With a little patience, plenty of praise, and a lot of consistency, brushing your dog’s teeth can become a simple part of your weekly routine—and a major boost to their well-being. At Pura Vida Pet Care, we’re happy to help answer any questions about at-home pet care and support your pet’s health every step of the way.