Trying to brush your dog’s teeth can be a real struggle. The bad news is only 8% of dog moms and dads brush their pup’s teeth daily. The good news is there are many ways to clean a dog’s teeth without brushing.
Most dogs don’t care for having a foreign object, such as a toothbrush, roaming around their mouths. If pet parents don’t use proper technique, the bristles may feel uncomfortable, or dogs may experience sensitivity. It can take time and patience to get into a toothbrushing routine with your pet.
It is best to start dog teeth cleaning when they are puppies. If this isn’t possible, there’s still plenty of time to improve their oral hygiene.
“Old dogs really can learn new tricks,” according to Sharon Daley, DVM, of Wake Forest, North Carolina. “It is never too late to start a routine.”In this article, you’ll learn all about stress-free solutions to maintaining your dog’s oral health. While these aren’t a replacement for daily brushing or routine dental cleanings under anesthesia with your vet, they can still be extremely beneficial when used appropriately. Say goodbye to doggy breath and hello to kissable canines.
Why Dental Health is Crucial for Dogs
Imagine never being able to clean your teeth. That’s the dilemma dogs face every day. Pet parents must take the lead to prevent dental problems from getting out of control.
Dr. Daley reports that dogs encounter many of the same types of dental issues that people experience.
Pet parents never want to smell ‘dog breath’ or be told their dog’s mouth smells. Sadly, the American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDA) reports that 80 percent of dogs show signs of dental issues by three.
Incorporating an oral care plan into your dog’s daily routine is as crucial as feeding them and providing fresh water and exercise.
Daily brushing helps remove dirt and debris from your dog’s teeth before it has the chance to harden into tartar (which can only be removed by a veterinary cleaning under anesthesia). Brushing is a big commitment and may not be possible for all pet parents, for a variety of reasons.
If an extended lifespan, healthy teeth and gums, and fresher breath sound appealing, check our expert-recommended ways to clean your dog’s teeth without brushing.
6 Stress-Free Ways to Clean a Dog’s Teeth Without Brushing
1. Dental Chews and Treats
Dogs have an innate desire to chew. Providing your dog with dental chews may contribute to a healthy mouth. As your dog chews on the tasty treat, abrasive grooves or indentations can help target tartar buildup on teeth and at the gumline.
“Dental chews [and toys] are great because they’re designed to scrape,” Katie Hood, DVM, of Hamptons Road, Virginia shares. “Some also have enzymes that help break down bacteria.”
Selecting the right dog dental chews depends on your dog’s size and preferences. PetLab Co. offers dental sticks that work against tartar build-up and include a natural probiotic for digestion and absorption. You can share one bag in multiple dog households because it’s designed for dogs of all sizes.
2. Dental Toys
The pet industry is aware that busy dogs are happy dogs. Using chew toys as part of your dog dental care routine is an easy win. As your dog gnaws on the dental toy, textured surfaces help clean teeth and massage gums.
Dental toys are available in various styles, including plastic bones, bacon-scented nylon toys, natural rubber toys with grooves and ridges, and toothbrush-styled toys.
When selecting a dental toy for your dog, consider your dog’s size and chewing aggressiveness. Read reviews and packaging details thoroughly. No dog toy is 100 percent indestructible, so supervise your pooch during play and chew time.
Also be sure to avoid toys or bones that are too hard, and may lead to fractured teeth. A good rule of thumb is that you should be able to indent the toy with your fingernail.
3. Dental Powders
The right dog dental powder can make a world of difference. Most pet parents love the idea of sprinkling dental powder into their dogs’ daily meals. Dogs have no idea they are receiving oral care since the product easily mixes into their food. The dental powder works by promoting healthy bacteria. Look for a dog dental powder that is clinically tested*, veterinarian-reviewed, and carries the NASC (National Animal Supplement Council) seal of approval. One such product is PetLab Co.’s ProBright Advanced Dental Powder. This dog dental powder is tailored for small, medium, and large dogs, you can even use it on puppies over 12 weeks.
“Good dental prevention can reduce anesthetic events as well as painful dental disease,” states Dr. Daley.
4. Water Additives
Some pet parents prefer using a water additive for oral hygiene for clean teeth, fresh breath, and healthy gums. Mixing a teaspoon of PetLab Co. Dental Formula with eight ounces of water may help accomplish this for dogs over 12 weeks.
The formula is flavorless, so dogs are unaware they are hydrating and receiving oral benefits at the same time. Because this method is easy, dog moms and dog dads can easily incorporate a water additive into their pup’s daily routine.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and look for products made in the United States with the NASC seal of approval. Dr. Hood says adding a dental rinse to your dog’s water bowls is one of the easiest things pet parents can do. If you have both dogs and cats in your household, be sure you are using a product that is safe for both species.
5. Dog-Safe Fruits and Vegetables
Feeding dog-safe fruits and vegetables has many benefits. Always consult your veterinarian before adding any new foods to your dog’s diet. Dogs have a shorter digestive tract than humans, so they cannot digest larger chunks or whole vegetables. Additionally, some human foods can be toxic or pose a risk of choking or intestinal obstruction. To ensure that your dog’s diet remains complete and balanced, make sure that treats (including fruits and veggies) don’t make up more than 10% of their daily calorie intake.
In our How to Freshen a Dog’s Breath Naturally article, we discuss carrots, blueberries, apples, celery, and more. The abrasive action of eating carrots can help scrape food particles from teeth and help with dirt buildup. Crunchy celery is a good snack that can help break up food particles between your dog’s teeth.Not all fruits and vegetables are safe for dogs to consume. Be cognizant of which fruits and vegetables your dog can safely enjoy for dental benefits and beyond.
6. Dental Wipes
Dental wipes for dogs are easy to use, gentle on gums, and can be packed for on the go (think road trips and vacations). Some dental wipes can be worn on the finger. Products like this have a bumpy side with brushing beads to help clear dirt build-up away and a quilted side for polishing.
Introduce your dog to a dental routine with positive reinforcement. Start by gently touching the outside of your dog’s face and mouth, and then reward. Graduate to gauze wrapped around your finger and some warm water. Transition to dental wipes with time and reward with praise. Never scold a dog for not cooperating. Slow and steady is key.
How to Choose the Best Method for Your Dog
“Good dental prevention can reduce anesthetic events as well as painful dental issues,” Dr. Daley reports. “It can also help prevent bacteria in the mouth from entering into the bloodstream and lodging on other organs. For instance, bacteria in the mouth can enter the bloodstream and lodge on heart valves causing endocarditis, a serious heart condition.”
It is important to find the right method for your dog. Some dogs allow pet parents to use dental wipes without fuss, while others may do well with water additives, dental powders, or chew toys.
Dr. Daley suggests that if your dog has a lot of tartar buildup, getting a dental cleaning provides a fresh start.
Avoid stress by experimenting with one or more of our suggested options for dog dental care without brushing. Read the instructions on products carefully and follow weight guidelines to ensure your dog gets the appropriate dosages or amounts.
Need more help finding effective and safe dental products? Look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council seal of approval.
Final Thoughts on Cleaning Dog Teeth Without Toothbrush
“When dogs have healthy teeth, they can eat properly and without pain, which supports their overall nutrition and well-being,” reports Dr. Hood. “Some of the most common dental issues in dogs are periodontal disease, broken teeth, and tooth decay. Many times, these problems are seen more often in smaller breeds.”
Alternative methods for brushing a dog’s teeth should never replace veterinary visits for oral care. The good news is there are many ways to keep teeth clean at home without using a toothbrush.
Veterinary Centers of America reports that proper dental care can prevent up to 85% of periodontal disease. The keys to oral care success are a combination of routine dental cleanings, home remedies for dog teeth cleaning, and paying attention to your dog’s mouth.
Sources
“Preventing Dental Disease in Dogs and Cats,” Colorado State University
“Dental Disease in Dogs,” VCA Animal Hospitals
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/dental-disease-in-dogs
