Why You Should Brush Your Dog’s Teeth

A previously unpublished study conducted for Agria reveals that a full 95% of Danish dog owners do not brush their dog’s teeth daily. This can affect your dog’s health, potentially leading to oral issues and severe pain. Here are Agria’s top tooth-brushing tips for dogs.

A new study by Agria in Denmark shows that 4% of dog owners brush their dog's teeth daily, 10% brush once a month, while 38% never brush their dog’s teeth. "All dogs deserve good dental health and the chance to keep their teeth well into old age. Brushing your dog’s teeth just a few minutes a day is a worthwhile investment," says Agria's chief veterinarian, Mogens Brix Koldkjær.

Why Your Dog’s Teeth Should Be Brushed

He explains that dogs, like people, will get plaque on their teeth. Some dogs are especially prone to this, while others don’t experience the same issues. Regardless, as a dog owner, you should keep a close eye on your dog’s teeth, because if plaque isn’t removed, it will harden and turn into tartar.

Tartar forms on the outer sides of the teeth, irritating the gums and surrounding tissues, causing the gums to become inflamed and red. If left untreated, the inflammation worsens, and teeth may become loose.

"Inflammation and infections can erode the tissue that supports the teeth, potentially causing teeth to loosen and fall out over time. Many dogs can function without teeth, but oral infections and inflammation are painful conditions. For many dogs, the ability to bite, chew, or hold things with their teeth is crucial for their well-being," Mogens Brix Koldkjær explains.

Infections in the jawbone can destroy bone tissue, making the jawbone more fragile and prone to fractures. Bacteria can also enter the bloodstream, causing infections elsewhere in the body – a significant but often overlooked risk for many dog owners.

Reduce Vet Bills and Pain for Your Dog

The most effective way to prevent oral and dental issues is by brushing your dog’s teeth. It’s easiest to get your dog used to brushing while it’s a puppy, but you can also introduce an adult dog to this essential routine. We know from experience that dental issues can be very painful, and it’s the same for our four-legged friends.

Some dogs regularly need to visit the vet to have tartar removed under anaesthesia. By brushing your dog’s teeth daily, you may be able to avoid this cost altogether or at least reduce how often your dog needs tartar removal, helping them avoid discomfort and pain.

Get Your Dog Used to Toothbrushing

Brush your dog’s teeth once a day. Choose a set time to make it easier to remember, for example, at night when you brush your own teeth, ideally at a time when your dog won’t be eating again soon.
If your dog isn’t used to toothbrushing, it’s essential to start slowly and increase the brushing day by day. Initially, it might be enough to just rub a bit of toothpaste on the outer sides of the teeth. Many dogs enjoy the taste of dog toothpaste, so a tip could be to put a little on their tongue as a reward when finished.
Once your dog is comfortable with toothpaste being applied to the teeth, you can start brushing gently with a damp cotton pad or a cloth wrapped around your finger. Make toothbrushing a positive experience with plenty of praise and encouragement.
As your dog gets used to the process, you can switch to a toothbrush of the right size. Dog toothbrushes are available at pet stores and veterinary clinics, or you can use a soft children’s or adult toothbrush.
Dog toothpaste contains enzymes specially designed to prevent tartar build-up. Dog toothpaste is flavored, which most dogs enjoy. It’s important to never use human toothpaste, as it contains substances that can be toxic to dogs.

Does Your Dog Have Mouth Pain?

It can be challenging to notice if your dog is experiencing mouth pain. Generally, dogs won’t stop eating due to pain. Some may swallow food without chewing or chew on only one side of their mouth, but this can be hard to detect. Symptoms of mouth pain can include: