While dogs don't bathe and groom themselves the exact same way their humans do, they still need to take care of their teeth. But it's surprising how many people don't necessarily know that.
In fact, a study shows that nearly 70% of dog parents have never sat down and brushed their dog's teeth before. But it's important to start. As February is officially National Pet Dental Health Month, now's a better time than any to learn about how and why your dog requires this extra attention.
If you've tried (and failed) to get your dog to cooperate with a toothbrush, you'll be happy to know that there are plenty of other products that can help get the job done. Here are 10 things worth buying and trying out to ensure that your pet is the healthiest they can be.
1. Jasper Finger Dog & Cat Toothbrush
$13.49
from
First thing's first — if you're looking to brush a dog's teeth, you should probably find a way to do it. While you can use a toothbrush, these finger brushes may be less threatening to your dog and easier for you to access your dog's full mouth. Coming in a pack of two, these brushes are made of silicone and can fit all fingers, as adding water helps them to expand.
2. Pedigree Dentastix Treats
Have you tried a toothbrush and felt a little traumatized? If so, you might want to stock up on some dental treats for your pup. Not only is Pedigree a brand that people trust, but the company knows dogs pretty well — and knows the types of treats dogs will be attracted to. All Pedigree products are made in facilities in the United States and Canada. Not only will these give your dog fresh breath, they'll also fight plaque and tartar.
3. Oxyfresh Dog & Cat Dental Water Additive
Just as mouthwash isn't a complete substitute for brushing your teeth, this water additive for pets shouldn't replace all other dental routines you have with your pup. But — much like mouthwash — it can make a huge difference. Your pet may not even notice that you've added a breath freshener into their water. All you need is a capful of this nontoxic dental formula to help fight plaque, tartar, and bad-smelling breath. This formula is made without mint or tea tree oil, both of which can be toxic to pets.
4. Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Oral Hygiene Chews for Dogs
When taken daily, these chews can help improve your dog's dental health. The brand uses beef hide as a way to tempt your dog to give them a try, and you'll get about 30 chews per bag. Obviously, you only want the best for your pup — so it should help knowing that Virbac has been around for over 20 years, and that other pet parents can't stop raving over how effective these treats can be.
5. Arm & Hammer Tartar Control Vanilla-Ginger Flavored Enzymatic Puppy Dental Training Kit
Have a puppy? Then you might want to start from scratch and use a toothbrush. That way, there's a better chance they'll get used to it and realize it's not a threat. This Arm & Hammer set includes both a standard toothbrush and a finger brush, along with a vanilla-ginger toothpaste that's safe for your pet. Plus, you can't beat the price.
6. Vet's Best Dental Care Finger Wipes
Dental newbies might feel a little less intimidated by these finger wipes. Sure, it's the same thing as sticking your fingers in your dog's mouth, but you might feel like you have more control over any pressure you put on your dog's mouth and gums. (After all, nothing hurts more than overbrushing.) These are made with natural ingredients like thyme oil and green tea extract and are safe to use on your pet every day.
7. Milk-Bone Original Brushing Chews Daily Dental Dog Treats
It's considered a win if your dog brushes their teeth without even realizing it. These Milk-Bone treats are favorites, as they're designed to reach areas that are hard to get to. The nubs and ridges on these treats actually mimic a toothbrush, and these claim to be just as effective. As a bonus, they're fortified with vitamins and minerals. It's almost foolish not to buy a pack or two to see the difference they can make.
8. BioBristly Dog Toothbrush Toy
Sure, you've probably never imagined that a toothbrush could take the form of a toy. But that's just one of the benefits that dogs have over humans. This toy is excellent for chewers and helps clean even stubborn-to-reach back teeth. Made from reliable TPR material, it's also an environmentally friendly toy. Plus, it doubles as a way to help dogs relieve anxiety. There's even different grooves to put your doggy toothpaste in.
9. Greenies Regular Dental Dog Treats
Greenies may be one of the most popular chews for dogs. Coming in counts from three to 54 (with this particular offering being a pack of 36), you might never look back after your first shipment arrives. These are often the brand recommended by veterinarians, and they've even gotten approval from the Veterinary Oral Health Council. But your dog will be keyed into the brand's other positive attributes — like the way they taste. (Which, according to dogs, is apparently excellent.)
10. Arm & Hammer for Pets Super Treadz Dental Chew Toy
It can often be hard to give your pet something to gnaw on that has a face — but this gorilla seems passionate in his mission to keep your dog's mouth clean. At least, that's something you can tell yourself to ease the pain. But I digress. There's a reason why this toy is a bestseller on Amazon, with over 14,000 positive reviews. It's built for aggressive chewers and gets the job done. Infused with baking soda, it also disperses treats. That means it has the potential of becoming your pup's new favorite toy.
*Psst: if you choose to purchase an item from this post, LittleThings.com may receive a small cut. Each item and price is up to date at the time of publication; however, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.
