How To Get Your Dog Used To Having Their Teeth Brushed

Getting your dog used to having their teeth brushed might sound like a big challenge, but with patience and the right approach your dog can learn to tolerate the process. Some dogs find the process enjoyable, especially if you get the yummy toothpaste flavor.

Brushing your dog’s teeth daily is one of the most effective ways to prevent plaque buildup, tartar formation, bad breath, and serious issues like periodontal disease. 80-90% of dogs have signs of periodontal disease by the age of three, and left unchecked it can impact their heart, liver, and kidneys. By brushing their teeth every day you can help cut down on those risks.

The key to success is desensitization and counter conditioning; break the routine into small manageable steps and pair each one with something your dog loves, like high-value treats, praise, or playtime. Never force your dog or push through resistance, as this can create fear. Instead, go at your dog’s pace, even if it takes a few weeks or months. Puppies often adapt faster, but older dogs can learn with consistency.

Step 1: Gather the Right Supplies

When it comes to supplies you need two things — the brush and the toothpaste.

For the toothbrush they do sell many dog varieties in the store, such as soft bristled ones on an angle to help reach the back teeth, or finger brushes for beginners and/or small mouths. You can even use a cloth or piece of soft gauze at the beginning to get your dog used to the process.

For the toothpaste you need to stick to ones formulated for dogs only, since human toothpaste is highly toxic to dogs. Enzymatic dog toothpaste comes in yummy flavors like beef and peanut butter, which will make the process even smoother since your dog won’t mind having something new done in their mouth if it’s delicious.

Step 2: Get Your Dog Comfortable with Mouth Handling

Many dogs are sensitive about their face and mouth being touched, so begin here before introducing tools.

• Choose a calm time, like after a walk when your dog is relaxed.
• Sit beside or slightly behind your dog in a quiet spot.
• Gently touch their muzzle, cheeks, and mouth, rewarding immediately with treats and praise.
• Progress to lifting the lips gently (no tools yet) to expose the teeth, and reward for calm behavior.
• Touch the teeth and gums with your clean finger for a second or two, reward heavily and gradually increase time.

If your dog pulls away, go back a step. The goal is to have your dog associate mouth handling with good things.

Step 3: Introduce the Toothpaste

The flavor is your secret weapon—many dogs will come to see dog toothpaste as a treat. Personally my dogs go crazy for the beef and peanut butter flavors.

• Let your dog sniff and lick a small dab of toothpaste from your finger, then praise enthusiastically.
• Repeat a few times until they’re excited about it.
• Once comfortable, let your dog lick the toothpaste from your finger a few times to build up positive associations.

Step 4: Bring in the Toothbrush

Now combine the toothpaste and mouth handling with the toothbrush.

• Let your dog investigate the dry toothbrush (sniff, lick if they want), then reward curiosity.
• Add a tiny bit of toothpaste and let them lick it off the brush (no brushing yet).
• When they’re happily licking, gently touch the outside of a few front teeth with the brush with very light pressure and reward handsomely.
• Gradually add gentle circular motions at a 45-degree angle toward the gumline (focus on outer surfaces first, inner surfaces are harder and less critical for plaque control).
• Work up to more teeth; start with canines (easy to reach), then side/back teeth. Aim for 30–60 seconds total eventually, but celebrate tiny progress.

Brush in sections (e.g., front left, back right) and keep sessions under 2 minutes at first. Many experts recommend starting with just the outer surfaces of the upper teeth, where plaque builds fastest.

Step 5: Build the Routine

• Practice tooth brushing daily for consistency. I added it to my night time routine, brushing my dog’s teeth before bed time.
• Use a consistent spot or cue to let your dog know it’s “toothy time,” or whatever you’d prefer to call it.
• End every session positively with praise, treats, or a quick game, even if you were only able to brush for 10 seconds, as this will encourage them to try it again.
• Once comfortable aim for one daily session to help keep your dog’s nice and clean.

If your dog still resists after weeks you might want to consult your veterinarian so they can rule out pain (such as sore gums or a cracked tooth). They might also suggest alternatives such as VOHC-approved dental chews, water additives, or wipes.

With time most dogs start getting excited when they see the toothbrush — turning what once was a chore into a nice little daily bonding moment. Your dog’s healthier mouth (and fresher kisses) will be worth every treat and pat along the way.