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When it comes to dog teeth cleaning, there are lots of different products on the market that claim to do a brilliant job. If your dog has bad breath, plaque build-up, or is in pain, you’ll want something that actually helps. We tried a number of different brands and share our findings below — along with some practical tips on dog dental care.
Do Dog Teeth Really Need to Be Cleaned?
Yes. Dogs develop plaque on their teeth just like we do, which can lead to gum disease, bad breath, painful teeth, and even tooth loss. Keeping your dog’s teeth in good condition matters — neglecting dental care can result in surgery later in life.
Image: Adobe Stock
How Can I Clean My Dog’s Teeth?
There are loads of products on the market — from special toothbrushes to chews and sprays. However, the best way to keep your dog’s teeth healthy is still to brush them at home with a suitable pet toothpaste every day.
Where to Get a Dog Toothbrush
Ask your vet first — many will give you one for free at your next appointment, so you have nothing to lose by asking. If that’s not an option, dog toothbrushes are available in most pet retail shops or online.
In Australia, a popular brand is TropiClean, and you can buy a set including dog-friendly toothpaste from $32.99 on PetCircle.
We found that our dog is happy to tolerate the TropiClean toothpaste, whereas he would literally run away and hide from a peanut butter flavoured toothpaste from another brand. Because each dog is unique, so is their taste preference — if your dog reacts badly to one brand or flavour, try another.
Many dog owners start cleaning their dog’s teeth with a fingerbrush before progressing to a regular dog toothbrush, which can help your pet get comfortable with dental care faster.
What If Your Dog Really Hates the Toothbrush?
Dental wipes can be a good alternative. They contain similar ingredients to toothpaste and you wipe your dog’s teeth with them to help reduce plaque and tartar — no brush required.
What Other Products Can Help?
🦷 VOHC-Approved Products
The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) recognises products that meet pre-set standards for plaque and tartar reduction in dogs and cats. They award a Seal of Acceptance after reviewing trial data — a reliable indicator that a product actually works.
The VOHC-recognised range includes dental diets, chews, oral gels, sprays, toothpastes, and powders that can be added to food. Review the full list of accepted products here.
In Australia, popular VOHC-approved products include Greenies and the above-mentioned TropiClean products.
What About Bones, Deer Antlers, Goat Horns, and Teeth Cleaning Toys?
⚠️ Always Check With Your Vet First
It’s always best to discuss this topic with your vet, as all dogs are unique. In our experience, our vet did not recommend bones for teeth cleaning — they regularly see dogs come in with health issues caused by bones and said it’s not worth the risk. They advised the same for antlers, horns, and teeth cleaning toys of uncertain origin. Other vets may advise differently — which is exactly why a personalised conversation with yours is the right call. Depending on the state of your dog’s teeth, your vet may also recommend a professional clean.
How Often and How Should I Brush My Dog’s Teeth?
🪥 Brushing Guidelines
How Often
- Daily brushing is ideal — the VOHC recommends brushing every day
- Start puppies early so they get used to it before it becomes a battle
- Have your vet check your dog’s teeth once or twice a year
The Technique
- The VOHC recommends 10 sets of four strokes — that’s 40 strokes per mouth
- Find the full recommended brushing technique in their brushing technique guide
- With enough time, daily brushing becomes a natural part of your routine
