The Best Dog Toothpaste (Vet Approved Review)
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Author: Vicki Smirnova
Vicki Smirnova is a professional writer and editor who adores animals and helps readers get along well with their pets. She has been working in digital media for more than 5 years and has great experience writing content about lifestyle, including pets. Vicki specializes in dog health and nutrition, cat feeding, dog training. She is an aquarium lover and is passionate to write about fish care at home. Also, Vicki headed several websites and worked as a news editor.
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by Dr. Joanna De Klerk
Dr. Joanna de Klerk is a professional Clinical Veterinarian. Member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons UK and a member of the South African Veterinary Association. Graduated with a Master of Science in Tropical Animal Medicine in 2018. Professional author, she has been writing in scientific journals, and also several book series. Joanna loves to enjoy time with her young daughter and family in her free time.
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Updated on: 02/14/2023
Dog dental care is a mandatory procedure to maintain the health and strength of your pet’s teeth. Cleaning your dog’s teeth should be done regularly, such as cleaning the ears, clipping the claws, and taking care of the eyes. With improper care or in the absence of it, the dog’s teeth and gums can become inflamed, and as a result, your pet will be too sore to eat correctly and might lose weight. To avoid such a development of events, you should take this procedure responsibly. Especially for the proper care of teeth, experts have developed a toothpaste that will not harm them, but, on the contrary, it will help keep teeth and gums healthy and clean.
To clean your dog’s teeth, do not use toothpaste intended for people; such pastes contain foaming substances, fluoride, and toxic ingredients like xylitol that can cause life-threatening consequences.
The main reason for brushing teeth is to minimize the risk of tartar formation. On this basis, you should train your pet to tolerate brushing daily from puppyhood. But it should be understood that toothpaste and daily cleaning do not get rid of tartar but reduce its formation.
At a Glance: Our Favorite 3 Picks
Here is the chart of our TOP-3 choices of toothpaste for dogs we have chosen available on the market:
Products | Benefits | Links |
Our TOP Pick  | 1. Petsmile Professional Natural Pet Toothpaste The toothpaste approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC). Protects against tooth decay and gum disease. | |
#1 for Bad Breath  | 2. Arm & Hammer Dental Fresh Breath Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste & Brush Kit Enzymatic gel actively whitens your dog’s teeth. It is formulated with natural ingredients. It is suitable for all dogs and puppies. | |
Best for Removing Tartar  | 3. Nylabone Advanced Oral Toothpaste Tartar The delicious formula contains Denta-C, which is scientifically developed to reduce plaque. |
*All ratings are formed by the article’s author based on own research and combined with customer reviews.
TOP-15 Rated the Best Toothpaste for Dogs Reviews
1. Petsmile Professional Natural Pet Toothpaste
Prevention is key to taking care of your pet’s oral health. Petsmile Professional Beef Flavor toothpaste protects against tooth decay and gum disease. This patented formula includes Calprox, which dissolves the protein that plaque and bacteria adhere to. This toothpaste is free of sulfates, parabens, gluten, bisphenol A and silica. To use, simply apply the toothpaste with the beef flavor to the toothbrush. This toothpaste is approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC).
Key features:
- This toothpaste helps fight against cavities, receding gums and gingivitis.
- Good oral health also helps paw-vent heart, liver and kidney diseases.
- Proprietary formula includes Calprox which dissolves the protein that plaque, bacteria and stains stick to.
Pros
Cons
- Broil flavor.
- Free of sulfates, parabens, gluten, BPA, and silica.
- Accepted by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC).
- None.
2. Arm & Hammer Dental Fresh Breath Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste & Brush Kit
This toothpaste gently cleanses your pet’s mouth with baking soda. Arm & Hammer has been manufacturing pet products for more than 100 years. Arm & Hammer dental products for dogs safely clean and maintain healthy teeth.
Key features:
- Gently and effectively eliminates bad breath.
- Formulated with natural ingredients.
- Infused with baking soda.
Pros
Cons
- 100% SAFE.
- This enzymatic gel is suitable for all dogs and puppies.
- Some users were not pleased with the smell.
3. Nylabone Advanced Oral Toothpaste Tartar
Nylabone Advanced, Oral Care toothpaste, is designed to prevent Tartar in dogs. The pleasant-tasting formula contains Denta-C, which is scientifically developed to reduce plaque.
Key features:
- Freshens breath while promoting a clean.
- Denta-C scientifically formulated to reduce plaque that harbors bacteria.
- Leaves your pup with fresh breath and healthy teeth & gums.
Pros
Cons
- Effectively cleans.
- Is safe to swallow.
- Suitable for all dogs and puppies.
- Some customers reported that their dogs did not like this product’s taste.
4. Vetoquinol Vet Solutions Enzadent Enzymatic Poultry-Flavored Toothpaste
This paste helps to get rid of bad breath, gum disease, and multiple infections. According to the American veterinary dental society, more than 80% of dogs suffer from periodontal disease by the age of two. Regular brushing of teeth helps to avoid many problems. All-natural dog toothpaste is a safe and effective way to control oral hygiene.
Key features:
- This paste is made of natural ingredients and helps your pet get rid of bad breath, gum disease, and multiple infections.
- Promotes healthy gums and prevents tartar build up.
- Suitable for daily brushing.
- Naturally sweetened for clean smelling breath.
Pros
Cons
- Non-foaming so no rinsing required.
- Suitable for all dogs and puppies
- Effectively cleans.
- Some paste ingredients are made in China.
5. Petrodex Enzymatic Toothpaste for Dogs
Good oral hygiene is essential for your pet. Petrodex enzyme toothpaste enhances the natural antibacterial effect of saliva, reducing the formation of plaque and tartar. Besides, this toothpaste cleans teeth and refreshes its breath, removing plaque and food residues.
Key features:
- Hydrogen peroxide-producing formula enhances the antibacterial action in saliva
- Cleans teeth and freshens breath.
- Available inform of tube and pump.
- Hydrogen peroxide-producing formula enhances the antibacterial action in saliva.
Pros
Cons
- No side effects.
- Great for tartar control and plaque build-up.
- Customers love the all-natural ingredients.
- Some owners did not like the smell this toothpaste left in their dogs’ mouths.
6. Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Dog & Cat Poultry Flavor Toothpaste
The products of this company are currently one of the most recognizable on the market. Over the years, the company has developed many solutions to improve the level of dental education and provide quality products. This is why the company’s product line is the # 1 dental brand recommended by veterinarians.
It is specially designed to effectively clean your pet’s oral area. The product contains a dual enzyme system to inhibit the formation of plaque. The toothpaste does not contain foaming agents and is intended for ingestion.
Key features:
- Specially developed to be safe, effective, and appealing to your pet.
- Enzymatic toothpaste specifically formulated for dogs and cats.
- This toothpaste is meant to be swallowed.
Pros
Cons
- Contains the C.E.T. Dual Enzyme system to inhibit the formation of plaque.
- Doesn’t include any foaming agents.
- It’s a supplement for multiple pet households.
- Some users found that the aluminum tube the toothpaste came in started to corrode or split after use.
7. Arm & Hammer Enzymatic Toothpaste for Dogs
This toothpaste with baking soda is ideal for cleaning your pet’s mouth. The pleasant taste of the product will make the process of brushing your teeth a pleasant procedure. Natural ingredients help fight tartar and freshen breath.
Key features:
- Enzymes help fight tartar.
- Baking soda enhanced formula.
- Trusted brand for over 100 years.
Pros
Cons
- Chicken flavor dogs love.
- Fresh mint scent.
- Formulated with natural ingredients.
- Some owners were not pleased with the smell of this toothpaste and wanted a product made in the U.S.A.
8. RADIUS USDA Organic Dental Solutions Toothbrush & Toothpaste Kit
Dental diseases can cause bad breath from the pet and contribute to the development of painful infections. This premium USDA organic dental gel helps freshen breath, removes tartar, and prevent plaque. The product does not contain any preservatives, colorants, or chemicals.
Key features:
- It helps freshen breath.
- No xylitol, chemicals, preservatives, dyes, pesticides, GMOs.
- Made with food grade ingredients.
Pros
Cons
- Do not contain gluten, fluoride, saccharin, artificial additives, sweeteners or flavors.
- Made in the USA.
- Latex free, SLS and SLES free, BPA and BPS free.
- Some users found that their dogs were not interested in the taste of this toothpaste.
9. Well & Good Puppy Dental Health Kit
This Well & Good Puppy Dental Health Kit helps keep your pet’s teeth healthy and breath fresh. Toothpaste helps prevent the formation of tartar and plaque when used regularly. The peanut butter flavor makes the cleaning process enjoyable for your pet.
Key features:
- It helps keep your puppy’s teeth healthy and breath fresh. Also, it helps reduce tartar buildup.
- Helps freshen breath.
- Includes a toothbrush and a soft finger toothbrush.
- A tasty peanut butter flavor.
Pros
Cons
- Is safe to swallow.
- Helps reduce tartar buildup.
- Formulated with natural ingredients.
- Some users said that toothpaste very bitter.
10. Pet Dent Toothpaste
It is designed to maintain oral hygiene. This is perfect for cleansing your pet’s mouth and prevents diseases of the gums and oral cavity. Besides cleaning products, it contains polishing and bleaching agents to maintain the whiteness and shine of teeth.
Key features:
- Besides cleaning products, it contains polishing and bleaching agents to maintain the whiteness and shine of teeth.
- Pets love the flavored taste.
- Removes dirt, plaque, tartar and food particles from the pet’s mouth.
- Prevents swollen gums and teeth diseases in pets.
Pros
Cons
- Prevents bad breath.
- Maintains good oral hygiene.
- Prevents oral infections.
- None.
11. Vet’s Best Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste
Vet’s Best enzyme toothpaste helps keep your pet’s teeth clean. This enzyme toothpaste is developed by veterinarians. The product contains only natural ingredients. The list of ingredients includes aloe, neem oil, grapefruit seed extract, baking soda, and enzymes. This product is designed to fight tartar and plaque. The paste helps whiten teeth, promotes healthy gums, and refreshes breath.
Key features:
- Packaged in an easy-to-use squeeze tube.
- Veterinarian formulated with a key mix of natural ingredients.
- Includes aloe, neem oil, grapefruit seed extract, baking soda and enzymes
Pros
Cons
- Designed to fight tartar and plaque.
- Whiten and brighten teeth.
- Promote healthy gums and freshen breath.
- This product is thick.
12. TropiClean Fresh Breath Clean Teeth Vanilla Mint Oral Care Gel
If your pet hates brushing their teeth, try TropiClean oral care gel. This natural vanilla-flavored gel formula protects against plaque and tartar and promotes fresher breath. It contains ingredients such as natural cleansers and green tea extract. You don’t need to brush your pet’s teeth, just drop two drops on both sides of your pet’s mouth! This gel is recommended by veterinarians. The product has a delicious taste and can help improve some pets’ dental health in just 30 days.
Key features:
- Natural cleansers and green tea extract promote fresh breath. The product has a delicious taste and can help improve some pets’ dental health in just 30 days.
- No brushing necessary.
- Natural cleansers and green tea extract promote fresh breath.
- Encourages cleaner teeth for some pets in just 30 days.
Pros
Cons
- Removes plaque and tartar.
- Made with natural ingredients.
- Not VOHC accepted.
13. TropiClean Fresh Breath Oral Care Kit for Dogs
This product contains green tea extract, which naturally protects against plaque and tartar. This kit also includes a toothbrush and a fingertip in the form of a brush, which allows you to gently clean your pet’s mouth.
Key features:
- It includes a toothbrush, finger brush, and 2-ounce brushing gel.
- Includes toothbrush, finger brush, and 2-ounce brushing gel.
- Freshens breath and cleans teeth.
- Available in two sizes — Large and Small.
Pros
Cons
- Removes plaque and tartar.
- Made with natural ingredients.
- Made in the USA.
- Not VOHC accepted.
14. Pet Dent Oral Gel
Pet Dent Oral Gel is a powerful antibacterial agent that keeps your gums healthy. This gel, with a pleasant taste, will help eliminate bad breath. Besides, it helps to carefully control the formation of plaque and various other dental problems.
Key features:
- It prevents bacterial attack associated with gums.
- Prevents teeth and gum diseases.
- Prevents bacterial attack associated with gums.
- Useful after scaling to keep the mouth bacteria-free.
Pros
Cons
- Controls formation of plaque.
- Fights bad breath and odor.
- Safe to use on all breeds.
- Some users were not pleased with the smell of this toothpaste.
15. Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Peanut Flavored Natural Dog Toothpaste
This toothpaste effectively copes with plaque and prevents the appearance of tartar. If you use this product regularly, you will help your dog reduce the risk of oral diseases and other serious health problems in the future.
Key features:
- Formulated with natural ingredients.
- Freshens breath and promotes clean teeth and gums.
- Denta-C formula is scientifically proven to help reduce plaque that harbors bacteria.
Pros
Cons
- Specialty dog teeth cleaner fights plaque and tartar.
- The dental formula helps prevent dog gingivitis.
- Made in the USA.
- Has been reported to cause diarrhea.
Final Verdict
Our favorite choice is Petsmile Professional Natural Pet Toothpaste. The Veterinary Oral Health Council approves Petsmile Professional Natural Pet Toothpaste. This product contains Calprox, which has been proven to safely prevent plaque formation, fight bacteria, and eliminate bad breath.
This product is designed to be used twice a week and does not require a toothbrush. Owners can simply use a finger applicator to RUB the paste into their dog’s teeth. Petsmile toothpaste is made from safe ingredients and does not contain fluorides, parabens, sulfates, and other components that can harm health. [4]
Buying Guide: Important Features to Consider
There are two types of dog toothpaste for caring for the teeth and gums of dogs:
- Gel – sold in tubes, used to clean the teeth and gums of the dog, helps prevent the formation of diseases of
- Toothpaste – sold in tubes, used for cleaning and polishing teeth and soothing and strengthening the gums and teeth- helps prevent dental disease.
When choosing the right one, you should proceed with your budget possibilities. The high price does not mean that it is of high quality, and the low price does not mean that this toothpaste is of low quality. [2]
You need to start with the average price segment and pay attention to the quality of the paste during use and the effect of brushing your teeth.
The second important point when choosing toothpaste is its composition. Manufacturers of dog toothpaste add to the smallest abrasives’ composition for cleaning and polishing tooth enamel. Some toothpaste contains enzymes that help dissolve substances stuck to the teeth.
Some toothpaste also includes clay; it does not irritate the dog’s mouth and can help the digestive system, restore the mucous membrane, and reduces inflammation.[3]
The third factor in choosing toothpaste is its consistency. Please select the most liquid paste so as not to waste time diluting it.
READ MORE: What to Do If My Dog Bites Someone?
What can I use for Dog Toothpaste?
You can use ready-made or make-your-own toothpaste to clean your pet’s teeth. To make it, you need food clay, which should be diluted with purified filtered water in a ratio of 1:1. To sweeten the paste, you can add a little propolis.
To improve teeth polishing, you can add a little baking soda, the smallest abrasive, and clean the dog’s teeth from plaque.
When preparing a large amount of dental cleaning product, you should use a natural preservative, honey. In this form, the product will last up to 10 days. Mix the components thoroughly before use.[5]
Does Dog Toothpaste Really Work?
Regular use of the paste for cleaning teeth reduces tartar formation and the appearance of various diseases of the teeth and gums. Regular cleaning also improves blood circulation in the gums, which positively affects the quality of life of the dog and its teeth. After all, thanks to healthy gums, the dog can enjoy their favorite treats much longer without pain and discomfort.
The smallest abrasives included in toothpaste clean teeth from plaque, thereby preventing the formation of tartar. Also, regular cleaning allows you to release food stuck between the teeth, forming redness, irritation, or unpleasant sensations in the mouth.
Regular massaging of the gums during brushing increases the blood circulation of the gums and, as a result, prolongs their life span. The teeth will retain their strength and integrity for a more extended period.
READ MORE: Dog’s nose is dry and cracked
FAQ
Can you brush dog teeth with human toothpaste?
Definitely not, since the substances included in the toothpaste for people can cause fatal reactions in dogs. Some toothpastes contain sweeteners which can lead to liver failure in dogs or dangerously low blood sugar levels. In addition to this, foaming agents can result in suffocation.
What to do if your dog eats it?
Toothpaste is absolutely harmless when digested and can be swallowed by the dog during or after brushing your teeth. Also, the ingredients included in the paste sometimes positively affect the dog’s digestion, reduce irritation, and restore the mucous membrane.
How much toothpaste is toxic?
Specialized toothpaste for dogs is non-toxic and does not harm the animal’s body, but it is not recommended to use too much toothpaste for daily cleaning of your pet’s teeth.
When should you start brushing teeth?
Brushing your dog’s teeth should start from early puppyhood so that the dog will quickly develop a reflex in which it will calmly relate to daily cleaning, which will avoid the formation of plaque and tartar on the teeth.
If you start brushing your teeth for an adult dog, you should not rush to intensive exercises. Slowly teach your dog to brush and touch the gums; the dog must understand that it is safe and useful for her. With the right approach, you will not take much time to get used to daily brushing your teeth. In any case, you can consult a veterinarian.
How often should you brush your dog’s teeth?
Brushing teeth is recommended daily. With daily care, the pet’s teeth will be protected from plaque, and tartar formation and daily massaging of the gums during cleaning will increase blood circulation in the gums, which will positively affect their health and strength.
Article Sources:
- Harvey, Colin. “Effect of Frequency of Brushing Teeth on Plaque and Calculus Accumulation, and Gingivitis in Dogs – PubMed.” PubMed, 1 Jan. 2015, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26197686/.
- Harvey, C. “Periodontal Disease in Dogs. Etiopathogenesis, Prevalence, and Significance – PubMed.” PubMed, 1 Sept. 1998, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9779543/.
- Borzabadi-Farahani, Ali. “Bilateral Agenesis of Maxillary Permanent Canines: Review of the Literature.” PubMed Central (PMC), 1 Mar. 2015, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4314837/.
- Logan, Ellen. “Dietary Influences on Periodontal Health in Dogs and Cats – PubMed.” PubMed, 1 Nov. 2006, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17085242/.
- Roper, Kelly. “A Dog’s Teeth | LoveToKnow.” LoveToKnow, dogs.lovetoknow.com/wiki/A_Dog’s_Teeth.
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