How to look after your dog’s teeth

Looking after your canine’s pearly whites doesn’t just give them a sparkling smile – it’s also an important part of their overall health.

Expert vet Dr Emma Chandley shares her top tips on dog dental care. Learn how to brush your pup’s teeth, when to start, and how often to do it.

 

• Should I brush my dog’s teeth?
  > When should I start brushing my dog’s teeth?
• How to brush your dog’s teeth
  > How often should I brush my dog’s teeth?
• Can a vet clean my dog’s teeth?
  > What’s the UK vet cost for dog teeth cleaning?
• Other ways to look after your dog’s teeth

 

Should I brush my dog’s teeth?

Just like their humans, dogs need their teeth to be cleaned regularly to:

• Stop plaque and tartar build-up
• Prevent gingivitis and periodontal disease
• Stop bacteria from spreading and causing infections elsewhere in the body

Periodontal disease and dental problems are the most commonly diagnosed illnesses in UK dogs.

A study of 22,333 dogs by the Royal Veterinary College found that around one in eight suffered from periodontal disease.

The study also noted that certain breeds were more prone to the condition, including:

• Greyhounds
• King Charles Spaniels/Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
• Toy Poodles
• Yorkshire Terriers
• Border Terriers

But it’s important to remember that dental problems can affect dogs of any breed and age.

 

> When should I start brushing my dog’s teeth?

Settling your canine into a good oral hygiene routine is easier if you introduce them to teeth brushing as a puppy.

By the time their adult teeth start coming in – around six months old – they should be well adjusted to having their teeth cleaned.

Don’t worry if your dog is older – it’s never too late to start brushing their teeth.

Speak to your vet if you’re concerned about your dog having dental disease. They can do a check-up and recommend the right dental treatment and routine for your dog.

 

How to brush your dog’s teeth

Lots of praise, positivity, and taking things slowly and gently are key to successful doggy teeth brushing.

Make sure to use pet toothpaste as human toothpaste can be irritating to dogs – your vet can help you find something suitable.

1. Start by letting your pup get used to having their mouth handled. This involves gently rubbing their gums and teeth with a finger dipped in a tasty, dog-safe liquid.
2. Next, add something soft and tasty to a dog toothbrush and let your dog lick it off to get used to the brush bristles.
3. As soon as they’re comfortable with this, add a little bit of dog toothpaste to the brush and let them lick it to adjust to the texture and flavour.
4. Using a gentle, happy voice and lots of praise cues, start gently brushing the large front canines in circular motions. If your dog is showing signs of discomfort, stop and try again another time.
5. Once your pup is happy to have their canines brushed, start slowly cleaning more teeth.
6. Don’t forget about your dog’s back molars. These can be reached by gently lifting your dog’s lips or brushing along the inside of their cheek.

 

> How often should I brush my dog’s teeth?

Ideally, you’ll brush your dog’s teeth daily to help keep them bright and healthy. If this is a struggle, aim for at least two to three times a week.

Try speaking to your vet or a qualified behaviourist if your dog is showing any signs of discomfort or fear around teeth cleaning.

 

Can a vet clean my dog’s teeth?

Your vet can step in to help if you’re really struggling to clean your dog’s teeth.

A professional cleaning may also be needed if your pup has a build-up of hard tartar. They’ll usually need to go under general anaesthetic to help keep them calm and relaxed.

During a professional cleaning, your vet can:

• Perform a thorough check of the gums, teeth, and mouth
• Carry out procedures like x-rays
• Remove plaque and calculus
• Polish the teeth

 

> What’s the UK vet cost for dog teeth cleaning?

Costs for professional dog teeth cleaning vary between vet practices so ask your vet for their price list.

You may also need to pay more if extra dental work is needed, such as x-rays or tooth extractions.

For example, Animal Trust charges a fixed price of £395* for a pet dental, which includes:

• A scale and polish
• Extractions found to be needed when carrying out the procedure
• Anaesthetic
• Pain relief for aftercare (if needed)

 

Other ways to look after your dog’s teeth

Alongside regular brushing, here are some other ways you can keep your pup’s teeth in top condition:

• Feed them dry kibble that’s specially formulated for dental health
• Take your dog for regular health check-ups where your vet will also check their teeth and gums
• Use products for managing plaque and tartar build-up as recommended by your vet. Options include dental sticks, topical sprays, gels, and prescription diets.

Always check with your vet before introducing new foods or supplements to your dog’s diet.

 

Did you know that dental accidents are covered as standard on a Petsure policy and dental illness is an optional extra? Find out more about our flexible dog cover.

*Prices accurate as of 27 September 2023