Do's and don'ts of pet dental care

Do: Brush your pet's teeth regularly

You should make every effort to brush your pet’s teeth every day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste approved by your vet. This will help prevent plaque and tartar buildup, and reduce the risk of gum disease.

Don't: Use human toothpaste

Human toothpaste can be harmful to pets as it often contains toxic ingredients like xylitol. It also contains unsuitable levels of fluoride for dogs. Always use toothpaste specifically formulated for dogs — these are often meat-flavoured rather than mint, to make them more palatable.

Do: Visit your vet regularly

Take your pet for regular dental check-ups to catch and prevent dental problems early. Your vet will guide you on when to get your pet’s teeth professionally cleaned.

Don't: Ignore bad breath

Bad breath in pets can be an early sign of dental disease. If your pet’s breath smells foul, it could be due to a build-up of bacteria and plaque or an underlying health issue. Speak to your vet if you’re concerned about persistent bad breath.

Do: Provide dental chews and toys

Vet-approved dental chews and toys are excellent for maintaining oral health. They aid in reducing plaque and tartar build-up and help to keep your pet’s teeth clean and gums healthy. Look for products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council.

Read more: The four stages of dental disease and tooth decay in dogs and cats

Don't: Give your pet hard objects to chew

Avoid giving your pet hard objects like bones, rawhide, or hard plastic and nylon toys, as these can cause tooth fractures. Stick to vet-approved chew toys and treats that are designed to be safe and effective for dental health. If you can’t make a dent in it with your fingernail, it’s probably too hard.

Do: Use dental rinses and water additives

Dental rinses and water additives can help keep your pet’s teeth clean and their breath fresh. These products have ingredients that reduce bacteria. Follow your vet's advice on which to use.

Don't: Neglect your pet's diet or forget about hydration

Diet plays a really important role in dental health. Dry kibble can help reduce plaque build-up compared to soft food. You can also buy food specially formulated to reduce tartar accumulation. Drinking plenty of water keeps your pet's mouth healthy by naturally cleaning the mouth and reducing the amount of bacteria in it.

Do: Monitor for signs of dental disease

Watch out for signs of dental problems like bad breath, red or swollen gums, trouble eating, drooling, and loose teeth. It's important to catch these early to prevent more serious problems. If you see any worrying signs, talk to your vet.

Don't: Skip professional cleanings

Even with regular brushing and dental chews, professional teeth cleaning is essential. Vets have the tools and expertise to clean below the gum line and remove stubborn tartar, and it’s also an opportunity to thoroughly check each tooth. Skipping this may lead to periodontal disease.

Do: Encourage positive reinforcement during dental care

Try to make tooth brushing and dental care a positive experience for your pet. Keep sessions short but regular. Use treats, praise, and gentle handling to help them feel more comfortable and cooperative with regular dental care.

Don't: Delay treatment for dental issues

If your pet has dental issues, speak to your vet as soon as possible and follow their recommended treatment plan. Early treatment can prevent more serious problems and keep your pet’s mouth healthy and pain-free.

Read more: Four stages of dental disease in dogs and cats

Do: Start dental care early

Begin dental care routines when your pet is young. Training them early will help them get used to brushing and other dental care habits, making it easier to keep their teeth healthy as they grow older. With young puppies, start by simply smearing small amounts of dog toothpaste on their teeth and gums and progress slowly to brushing. 

Don't: Overlook your pet's breed

Certain dog breeds such as Toy Poodles, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Greyhounds,  are more likely to have dental issues and may need extra attention.

Need more advice on dental care?

Looking for more expert advice on maintaining your pet's dental health? We have both a dog dental care hub and a cat dental care hub for all the essentials. If you need to have a consultation, use our find a vet page to find your nearest vet, or speak to a vet online using our video vet service.

Remember, prevention is always better than cure, so start taking steps today to protect your pet’s teeth. Members of Pet Health Club get six-monthly dental check-ups and 10% off dental procedures as part of their benefits.