There’s nothing more comforting than snuggling up with your dog on the sofa. Until, that is, the stench of doggy breath becomes quite overwhelming. But bad breath isn’t the only concern. Periodontal disease affects the teeth and gums and is caused by plaque and gingivitis, when food and bacteria accumulate. Brushing your dog’s teeth, with one of the best toothpastes for dogs (and best dog toothbrushes) is the most effective way to prevent periodontal disease.
Do not use human toothpaste. Many human toothpastes contain an artificial sweetener, Xylitol, that is toxic to dogs, and our toothpaste is not designed to be swallowed (anyone trained their dog to spit?).
Most dog toothpastes clean stains and plaque, and there are some also specifically designed to combat bad breath, containing enzymes that reduce bacteria, diminishing the build-up of tartar, and hence bad breath.
Pet toothpastes are typically available in flavours that appeal to dogs, such as chicken or malt, so brushing need not be an unpleasant experience for them. They may not necessarily take the form of a paste, as some are available in powder supplements, or liquid, which can easily be added to your dog’s dinner or drinking water.
Best toothpaste for dogs: the choice
Vet’s Best Dental Gel Toothpaste
Form: Paste
Flavour: Natural
Size: 100g
RRP: £5.49
Freshens breath and gently cleans away plaque and tartar, to support your dog’s dental hygiene. Contains natural ingredients such as peppermint, clove oil and grapefruit.
Comes with a handy finger brush that is gentle on your dog’s gums.
Vet’s Best also market a spray and a powder.
ProDen PlaqueOff Powder
Form: Powder
Flavour: Seaweed
Size: 60g, 180g, 420g
RRP: From £17 (for 60g)
A 100% natural supplement to combat bad breath, plaque and tartar. It is the “original oral hygiene powder supplement” which has been on the UK market for 17 years. It works with the animal’s body to dissolve existing tartar and prevent new build-up. Results are typically seen within three to eight weeks of use.
It can be sprinkled on the dog’s food daily.
MediPaws Plaque Off Remover
Form: Powder
Flavour: Seaweed
Sizes: 50g, 100g, 175g, 350g or 500g
RRP: From £8.99 (for 50g)
This 100% pure seaweed powder is an all-natural supplement to fight bacteria-laden plaque and tartar build-up without the need for a toothbrush. It contains vitamins and minerals which work to soften plaque, and improve bad breath. The manufacturer claims visible results in four weeks.
It can be added to the dog’s daily food and is recommended by vets.
Beaphar Toothpaste
Form: Paste
Flavour: Liver
Size: 100g
RRP: £5.99
This advanced dual-enzyme toothpaste combines two enzymes which fight plaque, bacteria and tartar build-up, to prevent bad breath and tooth decay.
It is fluoride-free and the liver flavour is popular with dogs.
Beaphar also produce a Dental Powder to sprinkle on food between brushes, and a Fresh Breath Spray.
Virbac Enzymatic Toothpaste
Form: Paste
Flavour: Poultry
Size: 70g
RRP: £7.50
A medical toothpaste designed for animals to prevent tooth and gum disease. The enzymes help to reduce bacteria, tackling both plaque build-up and bad breath.
VetIQ Denti-Care Spray
Form: Spray
Flavour: Natural
Size: 100ml
RRP: £6.99
This dental control solution is to be used instead of toothpaste. It contains an advanced formula designed to help reduce oral bacteria, maintain gum health and prevent the formation of plaque.
The 360º spray nozzle makes it easy to ensure total coverage of the oral cavity, and has a low-noise application not to frighten your dog.
Contains a blend of pomegranate extract, peppermint and parsley seed oil to freshen your dog’s breath while promoting good oral hygiene. Vitamin C promotes collagen formation in gums and helps manage plaque.
Denti-care paste, puppy teething granules and Denti-care liquid are also available from VetIQ.
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Plaque off! The best toothbrushes to support your dog’s oral hygiene and banish dental disease
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Squeaky clean: dog shampoos to wash, condition and nurture healthy coats
Sleek and shiny: best dog conditioners to detangle coats and soothe itchy skin
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