We brush our teeth daily to maintain good oral health, but what about our pets? Many pet owners don’t realize that brushing their pet’s teeth is just as important as it is for humans. Regular brushing can help prevent bad breath, gum disease, and tooth loss, ultimately leading to a longer and healthier life for your furry friend.

At Homeward Bound Veterinary Services, we know that brushing your pet’s teeth may seem like a challenge at first. We have created this step-by-step guide to help you make toothbrushing a stress-free part of your pet’s routine.

Why Brushing Your Pet’s Teeth Is So Important

By the age of three, 70-80% of dogs and cats show signs of dental disease. One of the best ways to prevent this is through regular toothbrushing. Brushing your pet’s teeth:

• Removes plaque and tartar – Daily brushing helps prevent plaque from hardening into tartar, which leads to gum disease.
• Prevents bad breath – If your pet’s breath smells unpleasant, plaque buildup and bacteria may be to blame.
• Reduces the risk of tooth loss – Gum disease weakens the structures supporting your pet’s teeth, causing them to become loose or fall out.
• Protects overall health – Bacteria from dental infections can enter the bloodstream and harm the heart, liver, and kidneys.

How to Brush Your Pet’s Teeth: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve never brushed your pet’s teeth before, don’t worry! Follow these steps to make the process easy and stress-free.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, make sure you have:

• A pet-safe toothbrush – A soft-bristled brush or a finger brush works best.
• Pet-friendly toothpaste – Never use human toothpaste, as it contains ingredients that can be toxic to pets.
• Treats and positive reinforcement – Rewarding your pet makes the experience enjoyable!

Tip: Choose a toothpaste flavor your pet will love, like chicken, beef, or peanut butter.

Step 2: Get Your Pet Comfortable

Your pet may be hesitant at first, so it’s important to introduce the process gradually.

• Start by letting them taste the toothpaste – Put a small amount on your finger and let them lick it off.
• Touch their mouth gently – Rub your finger along their gums and teeth to get them used to the sensation.
• Use a calm voice and rewards – Make it a positive experience with treats and praise.

Tip: Try brushing after they are tired out from playtime or before bed when your pet is relaxed.

Step 3: Begin Brushing Gently

Once your pet is comfortable, it’s time to introduce the toothbrush.

• Lift their lips to expose their teeth and gums.
• Brush in circular motions along the gumline, focusing on the outer surfaces of the teeth (where plaque builds up the most).
• Brush for about 30-60 seconds, gradually increasing time as your pet gets used to it.

Tip: Start with a few teeth at a time and gradually work up to a full brushing session.

Step 4: Reward and Repeat!

After brushing, give your pet a treat, praise, or playtime to reinforce the behavior. Aim to brush your pet’s teeth at least 3 times a week, but daily brushing is ideal for optimal dental health.

What If My Pet Won’t Let Me Brush Their Teeth?

Some pets are more resistant to brushing, and that’s okay! If your companion refuses after multiple attempts, here are some alternative ways to maintain their oral health:

• Dental chews & toys – Help remove plaque while keeping your pet entertained.
• Water additives – Special solutions added to drinking water to reduce bacteria.
• Dental-friendly diets – Some pet foods are designed to minimize plaque buildup.

How Professional Pet Dental Cleanings Complement Brushing

Even with daily brushing, pets still need professional cleanings to remove stubborn tartar and check for hidden issues.

At Homeward Bound Veterinary Services, our professional dental cleanings include:

• Scaling & polishing to remove deep tartar buildup
• Physical gum health evaluation to detect early signs of disease
• CT scans to check for hidden dental problems
• Tooth extractions (if necessary) for severely damaged teeth

Most pets need a professional cleaning every 12 months, depending on their breed, age, and oral health.

A Little Brushing Goes a Long Way!

Brushing your pet’s teeth might seem challenging at first, but with patience and consistency, it can become a simple routine. Keeping up with at-home dental care, along with regular vet visits, is the best way to prevent painful dental disease and costly treatments down the road.

Need help with your pet’s dental care? Schedule a dental exam at Homeward Bound Veterinary Services today! Call us at (443) 617-9836 or book an appointment online.