How to Brush Your Pet's Teeth: A Stress-Free Step-by-Step Guide
Does brushing your dog or cat’s teeth feel like an impossible task?
12.5% of dogs and 15.2% of cats are diagnosed with dental disease every year, with age and breed susceptibility being the main contributing factors. It’s no secret that as our pets age, their oral health declines. While it’s not impossible, it’s far easier to start their dental care routine early– prevention over cure is the aim!
Good practice when it comes to teeth cleaning can prevent bad breath, pain and discomfort, and costly vet bills. Here’s how to make brushing a breeze;
What You’ll Need
We recommend a holistic approach, combining dental supplements, brushing, and chews.
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Toothpaste. Our favourite is the Dorwest Roast Dinner Toothpaste, due to its vet-approved low-foaming recipe. It combines anti-septic and antioxidant ingredients, providing a tasty yet powerful cleaning effect.
Never use human toothpaste on your pets. - Toothbrush. For first timers, Dogslife Silicone Finger Brushes are a gentle way to start. Once your pet is used to the sensation, upgrade to the Beaphar Double Ended Bamboo Toothbrush for a more thorough clean of hard-to-reach places.
- Dental Supplement. Hackney Dog House Plaque Powder, Proflax Plaque Patrol, and Dorwest Fragaria 3C all soften existing plaque and prevent further formation. These are best used in conjunction with brushing, but they’re also a great ‘next best’ solution for rescue pets or those who are very brush-averse.
- A reward. What is your pet’s favourite thing in the world? Use their favourite toy or treat after brushing, to create a positive experience.
Step-by-Step Guide
We’ve spaced this out over 14 days but feel free to customise it to your own pet– superstars might only need a week, and nervous souls a bit longer than two.
Days 1-4
Let your pet smell and lick the toothpaste off of your finger, or their favourite toy or chew. Reward them afterwards. We’re aiming for a gentle introduction and a positive bonding experience.
Days 4-6
Lift your pet’s lip and gently rub toothpaste along their teeth and gums with your finger. Keep sessions short and preferably at the same time to build routine.
Days 7-10
Let your pet lick the toothpaste straight off the toothbrush. If they accept it well, you can mimic the motion from day 1-4 on the front teeth. Give plenty of calm praise.
Days 11-14
If everything is going to plan, these will be your first proper brush days. Continue to keep sessions short and positive, gradually moving towards the back of the mouth where plaque is most prevalent.
Days 14+
Celebrate your pet’s clean teeth and fresh breath (or the small wins if you’re still getting there!)
Brown’s Top Tips
Don’t forget the gums.
Bacteria and plaque also gather under the gumline, so brush at a 45-degree angle to target them.
Routine is your friend.
Approach your pet at their calmest time of day, and reward them afterwards. A short and positive experience will get you much better results than trying to fight against them!
Choose Chews.
Natural chews go hand-in-hand with good dental hygiene- whether you are brushing your pets teeth or not.
Marathon vs. Race.
Whether you’re wrangling a puppy or navigating a grouchy older cat, baby steps create a sustainable routine- don’t panic if your pet doesn’t co-operate the first time!
Need More Top Tips?
Why not check out or other blog: The Essential Do’s and Don’ts for Natural Teeth Cleaning, or get in touch with one of our expert consultants? Available in-store or through our online Consultation Service.
Shop our Dental range here.
