Brushing your pet’s teeth is the best way to maintain oral health between veterinary examinations. Start training your pet when they are young, making sure that there is a positive connection to brushing is the most effective way.

Approaching this routine the same way that you do any other positive reinforcement training is the key. Go slowly and stop brushing before the puppy or kitten gets irritated. Give lots of praise and love for good behaviour. 

Steps to Brushing Their Teeth

1. Put a pea-size amount of pet toothpaste or coconut oil in your pet’s mouth and immediately reward him with a treat, toy, or interaction.
2. Increase the amount of time between giving the toothpaste and the reward. Gradually increase the time each day.
3. Put the pet toothpaste on a small pet finger brush or a pet toothbrush and slowly introduce it to your pet’s mouth. Reward.
4. Work up to brushing the teeth, particularly focusing on the outer surface that faces the cheeks and away from the gum line and brush downward – for upper teeth – or in a circular motion for canine teeth and back molars. Always using gentle pressure. Reward.
5. It is important to always include the inner side of the teeth.
6. Continue doing this every day to help avoid dental disease down the road.

Just like you would for any other training, approach brushing their teeth with a positive attitude. Patience, time, and consistency will be the essential to successfully brushing your pet’s teeth.

While brushing your pet’s teeth is the best practice for dental health (just like for people), there are alternatives that can help. This options include dental sprays, dental gels, and offering dental treats or chews like bully sticks. Chewing helps to scrape off built up plaque and tartar on your pet’s teeth. Shop our selection of dental solutions online!