How to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth

Brushing your dog's teeth might sound a little unusual at first, but it's actually one of the most important parts of their care routine. Dogs use their mouths for just about everything – eating, playing, exploring and greeting you with slobbery kisses. That means keeping their teeth clean is about much more than fresh breath. Learning how to brush your dog's teeth helps prevent dental disease, keeps your pup comfortable and can even support their overall health.

The good news? You don't have to be a pro to get started. With a dog-safe toothbrush, some tasty toothpaste and a bit of patience, you'll soon discover the easiest way to brush a dog's teeth is simply making it part of your everyday bonding time.

Brushing teeth is about more than a dazzling doggy smile.

Dental care isn't just about dealing with a little tartar on your pup's teeth. Plaque and bacteria can quickly build up, leading to gum disease, painful infections and even tooth loss. What many pet parents don't realize is that oral health affects the whole body – bacteria in the mouth can travel through the bloodstream and put extra strain on the heart, liver or kidneys.

That's why learning how to brush a dog's teeth is so important. Regular brushing at home is one of the easiest ways to protect your pup's health and comfort. Plus, a clean mouth means fresher breath, fewer costly vet visits and more reason to enjoy those close-up cuddles. Simply put, brushing isn't just about a sparkling smile – it's a small habit that makes a big difference.

What you need to get started.

If you're unsure about what to use to brush dog teeth, here’s a short shopping list to begin your brushing routine. Just a few dog-friendly basics make all the difference in setting you and your pup up for success.

Dog toothbrush: A toothbrush made for pups has soft bristles and a smaller head that's gentle on gums but tough on plaque. You can try a finger brush if you're just learning how to brush your dog’s teeth, since it gives you more control and can feel less intimidating for both of you. Over time, many dogs get used to a longer-handled brush, which helps you reach those tricky back molars.
Dog-safe toothpaste: Human toothpaste is never safe for pets, but luckily, dog toothpaste is designed to be swallowed without worry. It comes in tasty flavors like poultry or peanut butter that make brushing more like a treat than a chore. Using the right paste is truly the easiest way to brush a dog's teeth, since your pup will be more excited to let you near their mouth.
Dental extras: Adding dog dental chews or chew toys into your routine helps reduce tartar between brushing sessions. They can't replace a toothbrush, but they do offer another layer of protection while keeping your pup entertained. Think of them as fun "bonus tools" that work alongside regular brushing to support long-term dental health.

Picking the best time.

Timing makes a big difference when it comes to brushing success. When you're figuring out how to brush your dog’s teeth at home, it's best to choose a calm moment when your pup isn't bursting with energy. At the end of a nice walk, after a play session or as you’re winding down for bed are perfect times because your dog is more relaxed and less likely to squirm away.

Dogs also thrive on routine. By brushing at the same time every day, you help your pup know what to expect, which makes the process feel normal instead of surprising. Whether it's part of the evening cuddle session or a morning ritual, consistency is key. Over time, brushing becomes less of a chore and more of a bonding moment you'll both look forward to.

Step-by-step brushing guide.

Once you've got your supplies ready and picked the right time, here's how to brush your dog's teeth without stress. Taking it slow, staying patient and keeping the mood positive make all the difference.

Introduce brushing gradually: Before you even touch a toothbrush to your pup's teeth, let them sniff the brush and lick a little toothpaste so they know it's safe. You can also gently run your finger along their gums to get them used to the feeling. These small introductions make brushing feel less scary and more like a game.
Start slow: On the first few tries, it's perfectly fine to brush just one or two teeth. Building up gradually helps your dog accept the routine without feeling overwhelmed. Think of it as teaching them in short, happy lessons rather than trying to master everything in one day.
Lift the lips: Gently raise your dog's lips to expose the teeth and gums. Don't try to open their mouth wide all at once – focusing on a small area at a time makes the process easier for both of you, especially if you're still exploring different ways to brush your dog's teeth.
Brush in circles: Hold the brush at an angle and use gentle circular motions, especially near the gumline where plaque builds up. Focus mainly on the outer surfaces of the teeth, since that's where the most bacteria gather. If your dog tolerates it, you can also try brushing the inside surfaces, but many vets agree the outside is most important. If you're wondering how long to brush a dog's teeth, aim for about 30 seconds to a minute per side, or two minutes total.
If your dog resists: Some pups may back away, squirm or clamp their mouths shut. Don't force it – that can make brushing stressful. Instead, take a break, keep sessions short and reward any small progress. Even brushing a few teeth is better than none, and patience pays off over time.
Focus on progress, not perfection: It may take weeks before you can comfortably brush your dog's entire mouth. That's totally normal. Celebrate each step forward, whether it's brushing one more tooth or adding a few extra seconds to the routine.
Reward generously: End every session with belly rubs, praise or a favorite dog treat. Positive reinforcement helps your pup see brushing as a fun part of their day, not just a chore.

How often should you brush?

When it comes to dental care, consistency is everything. Most veterinarians agree that daily brushing is the gold standard for keeping your pup's teeth clean and their gums healthy. Daily sessions help prevent plaque from hardening into tartar, which is much harder to remove without a professional cleaning.

If brushing every single day feels overwhelming at first, don't worry – starting small is still a win. Aim for a few times per week and gradually build up as both you and your pup get more comfortable. Even brushing two or three times weekly can make a noticeable difference compared to skipping it altogether. The key is making it part of your regular routine so it becomes second nature.

When to start brushing puppy teeth.

Many pet parents wonder if it's too early to start brushing. The truth is, puppies can begin learning the basics as early as eight weeks old. At this age, their baby teeth are still coming in, so you don't need to worry about perfect brushing just yet. The goal is to gently introduce the idea so that by the time their adult teeth arrive, they already feel comfortable with the process.

Early practice makes a big difference. By letting your puppy sniff the toothbrush, taste the toothpaste and get used to you touching their mouth, you set them up for lifelong success. This way, when their permanent teeth come in around six months of age, they'll already know that brushing is no big deal.

Other ways to promote dental health.

Brushing is the gold standard, but it isn't the only option. Carrots for dogs or crunchy snacks can help scrape away soft buildup. A well-balanced dog food designed with dental health in mind supports strong teeth and gums. Even some fruits safe for dogs, like apple slices, can provide a natural crunch that helps clean teeth.

Mixing these with brushing routines adds variety and fun to your dog's care plan.

FAQs.

What causes poor dental health in dogs?

Plaque buildup is the biggest culprit, but it isn't the only one. Genetics, diet and lack of regular care all play a role. Feeding sticky foods or skipping regular brushing makes things worse.

What is the best way to brush your dog's teeth?

The best way is daily brushing with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. Pairing it with rewards and calm moments helps keep your pup cooperative.

Is it too late to start brushing a dog's teeth?

No, it's never too late. Even older dogs benefit from brushing, though it may take more patience at first.

What to do if your dog won't let you brush his teeth?

Start small by touching their muzzle and lifting their lips without brushing. Use rewards and gradually add in the brush. Over time, they'll get more comfortable.

What is the best way to clean your dog's teeth at home?

Brushing is the top choice, but adding dental treats and crunchy snacks like celery for dogs offer extra support. For tough tartar, professional dental cleanings may still be needed.

Need other supplies while you’re shopping for dog dental products? PetSmart also carries dog food, dog beds, dog treats, leashes & harnesses, flea & tick meds and more. Explore PetSmart’s Dog Shop to find everything your pup needs, all in one place.

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Information in this article is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure your pet and is not a substitute for veterinary care provided by a licensed veterinarian. For any medical or health-related advice concerning the care and treatment of your pet, contact your veterinarian.