10 Best Dog Toothpastes [2023]

A healthy body is essential for a happy and pain-free life, which also applies to our furry friends.

Regular brushing is a part of that. Maintaining good oral hygiene for dogs is vital, and using the right toothpaste can make a big difference.

This post will explain the importance of using dog-specific toothpaste and provide a list of the best dog toothpaste available to help keep your dog’s teeth and gums healthy and clean.

Why Do Dogs Need Toothpaste?

Just like we need to brush daily to keep cavities and dental problems at bay, dogs need to brush too.

According to the A.K.C. Canine Health Foundation, periodontal diseases are the most common condition in adult dogs. For those who don’t know, periodontal diseases are related to the tooth and gum. It is generally caused by food or plaque, so you must clean it daily.

Besides affecting teeth and gums,  it can also impact the dogs’ overall health. That is why caring for your dog’s dental hygiene is important, and choosing the right toothpaste should be your first step. 

Can I Use Human Toothpaste For My Dog?

No, you cannot use human toothpaste to brush your dogs. Just like we have different requirements for eating, dressing, medicines, etc., dogs need toothpaste made for them.

Dog toothpaste comes in a variety of flavors more suitable for dogs, like poultry, malt, beef, and seafood, as opposed to mint, fresh, cinnamon, etc., that humans use.

Besides taste, most human toothpaste has ingredients like sodium, fluoride, and xylitol, which are toxic for a dog and not meant to be swallowed. Human toothpaste also has a foaming agent called Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (S.L.S.). It is not supposed to be ingested, and we know how difficult it can be to ensure your dogs don’t do that.

These are some reasons you should never use human toothpaste on your dogs. In fact, when you buy toothpaste for your dogs, ensure none of these typical human ingredients are present.

Note: There are some dog toothpastes that contain fluoride. We recommend not buying those.

1. Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic/Enzymatique Toothpaste

Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste comes in 5 flavors, without a foaming agent, and is safe to swallow. You can choose from ​​poultry, Malt, Vanilla-Mint, Beef, and Seafood flavors.

It is rated 4.6 out of 5 on Amazon, with glowing reviews on how their dogs love it.

The price is approx. $10.67 

2. Arm & Hammer Fresh Breath Vanilla-Ginger Flavored Dog Toothpaste

Arm & Hammer is infused with enzymatic gel and baking soda that is safe for dogs. Unlike Virbac, this one is made of natural ingredients and comes in a vanilla ginger flavor they will love.

It is rated 4.6 out of 5 on Amazon, with positive reviews.

The price of one 2.5 oz tube is approx. $6.

3. Vetoquinol Enzadent Enzymatic Toothpaste for Dogs

Unlike the others, Vetoquinol’s enzymatic toothpaste is made for dogs and cats. It contains a triple enzyme formula to break down plaque and maintain healthy teeth and gums.

It is poultry flavored, non-foaming, and safe to swallow.

It is rated 4.5 out of 5 on Amazon. The tube is 3.2-ounces and is priced at $11 

4. Petrodex Enzymatic Dog-Safe Toothpaste

A poultry or peanut-flavored toothpaste designed to remove plaque and food debris easily. Besides this, it has parented enzymes, making it a non-foaming toothpaste that does not need rinsing.

It is rated 4.5 out of 5, with over 27,657 global ratings.

A 6.2-ounce tube costs approx. $12.99

5. BARK Bright Triple Enzymatic Toothpaste and Dental Chew Kit For Dogs

BARK’s toothpaste was mentioned in Time Magazine’s Best Inventions of 2019 list.

Unlike anything else on the list, these are dental chews with toothpaste inside of them. You will have to take the tube and squeeze the toothpaste into the grooves of the dental sticks.

When your dog chews on it, it helps remove bad breath and plaque. These dental sticks are made in the U.S.A. with real chicken and are grain, corn, and soy free.

One kit will contain 30 chews and toothpaste.

With 193 ratings, it is rated 4.3 out of 5. It costs approx. $30. 

6. Petsmile Professional Dog Toothpaste

It helps prevent tartar and break plaque, eliminating bad breath and preventing gingivitis. Petsmile is a vegan toothpaste free of sulfates, parabens, silica, gluten, and B.P.A.

It is also the only VOHC-recommended toothpaste for your pets.

It has a rating of 4.4 out of 5, with over 1217 comments. You can buy a 4.2 oz tube at $25.

7. Burt’s Bees for Dogs Fresh Breath Toothpaste

Burt’s Bees is everything you need for your pets, and it uses peppermint oil to naturally freshen your dog’s breath. The natural ingredients help remove tartar and break down plaque to maintain perfect dental hygiene.

The toothpaste is also free of sulfates, colorants, or fragrances. It has a rating of 4.4 out of 5. You can buy a 2.5 oz tube at $12. 

8. Vet’s Best Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste

Vet’s dog toothpaste uses aloe, neem oil, grapefruit seed extract, baking soda, and enzymes to help clean your dog’s tooth.

It is a highly budget-friendly option for you. It has a rating of 4.4 out of 5, with over 60,000 comments. You can buy a 3.5 oz tube at $7.8.

9. Vetality Brush Free Twist and Lick Dental Gel for Dogs

Vetality is a very different dental product for dogs, and it is not a traditional toothpaste that needs a toothbrush.

You will get a stick. You open it, twist it, and let your dog lick it. The gel will gradually dissolve in 24 hours and release ingredients that clean your dog’s mouth.

It has a rating of 4.1 out of 5. You can buy it for $20.

10. Nutri-Vet Enzymatic Toothpaste for Dogs

Nutri-Vet’s toothpaste is chicken flavored, which your dogs would love. It is non-foaming and will help keep dental hygiene at its best.

It is formulated by vets themselves and is made in the U.S.

It has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 on Amazon. You can buy a 2.5 oz tube at $3.99 on Chewy. 

Frequently Asked Question On Dog Toothpastes 

Does Dog Toothpaste Expire?

Yes. Just like any other product, dog toothpaste also expires. It would help if you looked at the product’s packaging to understand the expiry conditions.

While expired dog toothpaste might not have deadly effects, we do not recommend using them. Over time, the ingredients in toothpaste can deteriorate, become less effective, and potentially even be harmful. 

In addition, expired toothpaste can also lose its flavor, making it less appealing to your dog and more challenging to brush their teeth. To ensure your pet’s safety and the effectiveness of the toothpaste, it’s essential to check the expiration date and replace it when necessary. 

Can Dogs Eat Dog Toothpaste?

Yes, dogs can eat dog toothpaste. It is challenging to ensure that dogs spit out the toothpaste as we do, and that is why they are designed with safe ingredients for dogs to ingest.

Should I Brush My Dog Every Day?

The frequency of brushing your dog’s teeth depends on their individual needs. Still, brushing their teeth at least 2-3 times a week is recommended.

Daily brushing may be necessary if your dog has existing dental issues or is prone to dental problems.

Brushing your dog’s teeth can help remove plaque and prevent tartar build-up, promoting good oral health. It’s also an excellent opportunity to check for any signs of swelling or redness in your dog’s mouth.

You can consult a veterinarian for personalized toothpaste, technique, and equipment recommendations. 

Isn’t It Challenging To Make Your Dog Like Brushing?

Yes, getting some pets to accept dental hygiene routines can be challenging. Still, making it a part of their regular care is essential. Introduce your pet to brushing gradually and associate it with something fun and positive.

Also, start with a finger brush before introducing a toothbrush. Using toothpaste specifically designed for dogs, with a flavor your pet likes, can also make the experience more enjoyable for them.

It would help if you stayed consistent and patient with this. Over time, most pets will become more comfortable with the routine. 

Are you ready to brush your dog’s teeth?

Choosing the best toothpaste for your dog can improve their oral health and overall well-being.

It is essential to consider factors such as the type of toothpaste, ingredients, and your dog’s preferences when selecting a toothpaste. With the plethora of options available in the market, it is highly recommended to pick something your dogs will like or consult a veterinarian to find the best toothpaste for your furry friend (especially if they are prone to dental problems).

If you haven’t already, make sure to pick up regular brushing and the right toothpaste for your dogs today.