12 Tips to Keep Your Dog's Teeth Healthy and Happy

Keeping your dog’s teeth clean isn’t just about fresh breath — it’s about their overall health. Dental issues in dogs can lead to pain, trouble eating, infections, and even heart or kidney problems if bacteria from the mouth spreads. The good news? With just a few easy habits, you can help your pup maintain a healthy mouth for life.

Here’s what’s worked for us and what we recommend to other dog parents:

1. Daily Brushing (Yes, Daily!)

I know — brushing your dog’s teeth might sound like a chore, especially if your pup gives you “the look” every time you try. But once you get into a rhythm, it becomes part of the routine. Use a toothbrush and toothpaste made for dogs (never human toothpaste — it’s toxic to them). Start slow: let them sniff and lick the toothpaste first, then gently lift their lips and brush what you can. Even 30 seconds is better than nothing.

If daily brushing is too much at first, aim for a few times a week and go from there.

2. Chew Toys That Do More Than Entertain

Chewing is a natural (and necessary) behavior for dogs. The right chew toy can help clean teeth by scraping away plaque — plus, it keeps them busy and mentally engaged. Look for rubber dental toys or vet-approved dental chews. Just make sure the toy is the right size and toughness for your dog’s breed and chewing style. Supervision is key, especially with aggressive chewers.

3. Dental Wipes and Gels for the Wiggle Worms

If toothbrushing is a no-go (some dogs just won’t have it), dental wipes and gels are a great backup. Wipes are easy to use — just wrap one around your finger and wipe their teeth and gums. Gels can be applied with a finger or toothbrush. Look for ones specifically made for dogs. I keep a pack of wipes in our dog bag for quick cleanups after meals or treats.

4. Raw Bones — With Caution

Raw bones (never cooked!) can help scrape off plaque and satisfy your dog’s instinct to chew. We’ve used raw beef or lamb bones with larger dogs, but it’s super important to supervise and choose the right size. Avoid small bones that could splinter or get swallowed.

5. Crunchy Veggies as Treats

Carrots, celery, green beans — crunchy veggies can naturally clean your dog’s teeth while giving them a vitamin boost. They’re also low-calorie, which makes them a smart alternative to sugary or starchy treats. We often keep a bag of baby carrots in the fridge just for the dogs.

6. Limit Sugary or Starchy Treats

Too many biscuits and human table scraps can lead to plaque buildup. We like to stick with dental chews, veggie snacks, or even apple slices (minus the seeds). If you do give treats, make sure they’re part of a balanced diet and not a daily sugar fix.

7. Dry Kibble Over Soft Food

Crunchy kibble helps scrape teeth clean a bit more than soft, wet food. That doesn’t mean you can’t feed wet food — just be aware it can stick to teeth more, so you’ll need to be extra mindful of brushing or using dental aids.

8. Regular Vet Checkups

Even with the best at-home care, you’ll want your vet to check your dog’s mouth regularly. They can spot early signs of gum disease, broken teeth, or infections. Some dogs may need professional cleanings under anesthesia, especially as they get older.

9. Water Additives for Easy Maintenance

Think of water additives like a mouthwash for dogs. You add them to their water bowl to help reduce plaque and freshen breath. They’re not a replacement for brushing, but they can be a great supplement — especially for dogs who hate having their mouths touched. Just follow the dosing instructions and make sure it’s a vet-approved formula.

10. Fresh Water, Always

Clean water helps wash away food particles and bacteria. It also promotes saliva production, which naturally defends against plaque. We change our dogs’ water at least twice a day — and clean the bowl regularly to avoid slimy buildup.

11. Keep Them Active

This may not seem like a dental tip, but it all ties together. Regular exercise keeps your dog healthy overall, and chewing during play (like tug or fetch with a rope toy) can help keep their teeth in action too. Plus, a tired dog is less likely to chew on furniture or other things that could damage their teeth.

12. Start Young, But It’s Never Too Late

If you’ve got a puppy, now’s the time to get them used to having their mouth touched. But even if your dog is older, it’s never too late to start. We’ve helped plenty of senior dogs ease into dental care routines — just be patient and go at their pace.

Bottom line? A little daily effort goes a long way in preventing painful (and expensive) dental problems. Whether it’s brushing, offering the right chews, or choosing better treats, your dog’s mouth will thank you — and so will your wallet.

Happy brushing! 🦷🐾