The 9 Best Puppy Toothpastes

Reviews

Best Overall: Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste

The best choice overall is Virbac’s C.E.T. dog toothpaste. This toothpaste is our favorite for many reasons. First, this product may be used on both dogs and cats, which is quite useful if you have many pets. Who desires to juggle two types of toothpaste?

Second, they provide many tastes, none of which include foaming agents. The animals like the flavor of this toothpaste. This may be due to the use of artificial sweeteners, which we dislike, but we understand. Brushing a pet’s teeth is difficult enough. Might as well make it taste delicious.

Due to its dual enzymatic qualities, the efficacy of this toothpaste is our favorite feature. Despite the fact that the lid will get crusty, we believe it’s worth it.

Pros

• Dual enzymatic
• Tastes good
• Absence of foaming agents
• Excellent for multi-pet homes
• Multiple tastes

Cons

• An abundance of artificial sweeteners
• Tube becomes crusty

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Best Value: Vet’s Best Enzymatic Toothpaste

If you need to save money, use Vet’s Best toothpaste. This is another veterinary-formulated enzymatic toothpaste that demonstrates excellent success in eliminating plaque, tartar, and freshening breath.

It can only be used on dogs, therefore it may not be practical if you have cats. But for dog-only households, this may be the finest value toothpaste.

You need not worry about artificial sweeteners while using this toothpaste. Multiple components are all-natural. A small number of owners claimed that their dogs had diarrhea after taking the medication, however these reports were uncommon. Unflavored dog food may also not appeal to your dog’s sense of taste.

Pros

• Enzymatic
• No synthetic sweeteners
• Veterinarian formulated
• Natural ingredients

Cons

• Resulted in diarrhea in many dogs
• For just dogs
• No flavor

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Petsmile Professional Toothpaste – Choice of Excellence

Want to spend money on a premium option? Our preferred toothpaste is Petsmile Professional.

The Petsmile Professional toothpaste has VOHC1 approval. This paste, unlike other flavored toothpastes, is sugar-free and vegan and has a London Broil taste.

If you are unfamiliar with London Broil, it is a way of cooking steak. Petsmile substitutes animal protein with liquid spices to replicate the flavor of steak. Not all animals like the taste of London Broil, though. Nonetheless, it may be a good solution for dogs with protein sensitivities.

This paste is devoid of sulfates, parabens, gluten, BPA, and silica, in addition to its taste. Additionally, it is safe for cats, so your cash goes farther. The only other disadvantage is that it lacks enzymes.

Pros

• Vegan
• Sulfate-, paraben-, gluten-, BPA-, and silica-free.
• Excellent for animals with meat allergies
• Sugar-free
• Excellent for multi-pet households
• VOHC-approved

Cons

• Pricey
• Some pets dislike the flavor.
• Not enzymatic

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Radius Natural Pet Toothpaste

Radius dog toothpaste is for organic enthusiasts. It has a distinct cinnamon and sweet potato taste with a dash of coconut oil. The oil makes the paste slippery, so if your dog is rambunctious, things might become nasty.

We appreciate that this paste does not include xylitol, an element that is hazardous to dogs. It contains guar gum, therefore if you want to avoid this component, it’s recommended to skip this product.

This product is also cruelty-free. Sadly, it is not an enzyme. It can only be used to freshen your dog’s breath. Additionally, there is no expiry date on the tube. But altogether, it is a nice product that does its purpose with quality components.

Pros

• Larger tube size
• Organic
• Cruelty-free
• Contains no additives, including xylitol.

Cons

• Limited attributes
• Contains guar gum
• Not enzymatic
• No expiry date on tube
• Unstable consistency

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Natural TropiClean Dog Dental Gel

Tropiclean is one of the most prominent natural pet product companies. Their products smell good, taste well, and are effective! Generally speaking, at least. There are usually restrictions associated with natural goods.

This toothpaste, for example, is not enzymatic, and dogs dislike its taste. We speculate that this is due to either the gel’s alcohol content or its faint mint taste. In any case, the toothpaste is effective.

Owners report having cleaner teeth, better breath, and more tranquility. This is another tooth gel with VOHC approval.

Pros

• Organic ingredients
• Available in miniature for testing
• VOHC-approved

Cons

• Suitable for pups older than 12 weeks
• Not enzymatic
• Dogs do not like the flavor.

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Oratene Brushless Dog Dental Gel

Number six on our list is Oratene brushless dental gel. This gel is intended for dogs suffering from advancing periodontal disease and other dental difficulties. It possesses anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and antiviral properties that aid in the battle against illness.

The majority of pups will not need this gel, but there are always outliers. This gel is completely safe for puppies. Alcohol and xylitol are absent.

Oratene is also an enzyme, which makes brushing considerably simpler. It tastes delicious, but it contains artificial sweeteners. If your dog’s teeth are infected, this usually isn’t a major concern.

Pros

• Excellent for canines with severe dental problems
• Enzymatic
• Cruelty-free
• Lacking xylitol and alcohol
• Antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiviral defense

Cons

• Contains synthetic sweeteners.

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Nylabone Dental Kit for Oral Care

The oral care toothbrushing package from Nylabone is a godsend for novice dog parents. This easy and inexpensive brushing set includes a bottle of toothpaste, a finger brush, and a standard toothbrush.

The normal toothbrush included in this set is curved, making it easier to reach the rear molars than with a typical baby toothbrush.

The disadvantage of the toothbrushes is that some owners dislike the fit of the finger brush, and the bristles on the traditional toothbrush come away.

The toothpaste is declared non-enzymatic, however we discovered sorbitol, a cytoplasmic enzyme, in the list of components. The taste is equally liked by most dogs. Some like it, while others detest it.

Pros

• Includes a standard and finger toothbrush.
• Affordable
• Toothbrushes are angled to reach the back teeth.

Cons

• Toothbrushes break easily.
• The finger brush may not fit all fingers.
• Flavor is hit or miss for canines.
• Not enzymatic

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Maxi Guard Oral Hygiene Wipes

Maxi-Guard dental cleaning pet wipes are number eight on our list. These wipes are convenient since they eliminate the need for a toothbrush or sticky toothpaste. Each wipe is 3 inches in diameter, so one or two should enough.

The convenience of these wipes lies in the fact that you may use them on both your dog and cat. They are not as effective as a conventional toothbrush and enzymatic toothpaste. In addition, you cannot reach the rear molars.

Pros

• No-brush option
• Excellent for multi-pet homes
• Mess-free

Cons

• Impossible to reach molars
• Not enzymatic
• Utilize more than one wipe?

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Pawtitas Natural Toothbrush

The last product on our list is Pawtita’s natural dental scrub. Honestly, most individuals would like to avoid powders since they are untidy. However, some individuals prefer powders over pastes, therefore we must cover all bases!

This human-grade powder contains neither artificial sweeteners nor preservatives. If you’re vegan, you’re in luck. This cleaner has no animal proteins either.

Consider that the powder is tough to provide to a wriggling dog. It is also non-enzymatic, therefore it simply removes plaque in a basic manner.

Pros

• No artificial preservatives or sweeteners.
• Human-grade
• 100% organic and natural ingredients
• Vegan

Cons

• Messy
• Difficult to employ
• Expensive
• Not enzymatic
• Baking

Buyer's Guide

Why It Is Essential to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth

Approximately two-thirds of dogs1 will acquire periodontal disease or dental disease over their lifespan. The gums become irritated or infected, and the teeth decay.

Gingivitis, a milder type of tooth disease, precedes periodontal disease. Plaque bacteria invade the gums, causing them to become red and swollen. If left untreated, the illness leads to the painful loss of teeth.

Dental cleanings are a terrific method to keep your pet’s teeth clean, but not everyone can afford to do it twice a year. This is where cleaning your teeth comes into play.

Brushing your pet’s teeth is an easy, inexpensive, and effective approach to maintain healthy gums and teeth.

When Should I first begin to brush my puppy’s teeth?

Start cleaning your puppy’s teeth as soon as it is completely weaned. If possible, you should begin when the puppy is eight weeks old, or when it can safely consume dry food. Dogs are not used to having their teeth brushed, so beginning early can make your puppy anticipate and appreciate the process.

Which kind of teeth cleaner is the most effective?

As the preceding list demonstrates, there are several types of toothpaste, ranging from powders and pastes to gels and wipes. The list continues.

So, how do you determine which toothpastes are the best? That relies totally on your and your dog’s requirements. Consider many choices.

The most common kind of toothpaste is a paste. Typically, it is flavored.

A dry, powdered cleansing agent. Can be used dry or sometimes blended with water to form a paste.

Gel is similar to paste but has a glossier appearance. Typically thinner and producing less foam.

Available pre-packaged and ready for use. An optional toothbrush may not remove as much plaque or refresh breath.

Dental chews: These treats remove plaque as the dog consumes them.

Paste or gel often produces the greatest results, although either approach will work. The most essential thing is to develop a brushing routine.

Common Toothpaste Ingredients for Dogs

The following are typical substances found in pharmaceutical and store-bought tooth cleaners:

• Sorbitol
• Glycerin
• Water
• Guar gum
• Cellulose gum
• The chemical formula is Tetrasodium pyrophosphate.
• Hydrated silicon dioxide
• Sodium ascorbate phosphate
• Sodium lauryl sulfate
• Sodium benzoate
• Potassium sorbate
• Titanium dioxide
• Copper sodium chlorophyllin
• Hexametaphosphate sodium
• Magnesium aluminum silicate

It is your choice which substances to avoid. However, xylitol is an element that all pet owners should avoid.

A naturally occurring chemical used as a sugar replacement is xylitol1. It is often derived from maize fiber or birch trees and processed into a white powder that resembles sugar in appearance and flavor. Unfortunately, it is very poisonous to dogs, causing hypoglycemia, seizures, and occasionally even death.

The amount of xylitol in a product varies, but it is recommended to avoid it totally.

Can I use toothpaste for humans on my dog?

Never put toothpaste meant for humans on your dog’s teeth. Toothpaste for humans includes components that may be poisonous, such as fluoride, or induce stomach discomfort or diarrhea. Some human toothpastes contain high quantities of sodium1, which may cause sickness in dogs. Other brands of toothpaste include xylitol.

Use dog toothpaste that does not include xylitol.

How to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth Properly

Brushing your dog’s teeth is not as difficult as some would believe. The difficulty of the process varies depending on your dog’s patience and the kind of toothpaste you use, but it is not very challenging.

Help your dog get used to the shampoo in Step 1.

This is why a delicious mouthwash is essential. Your dog will not want to participate in brushing if the teeth cleaner has an unpleasant flavor. Additionally, the texture might be a bit off-putting.

Instead of immediately cleaning your teeth, apply a tiny quantity of toothpaste on your body and offer your dog a taste. If your pet like it, go to step 2.

Step 2: Brush your teeth

When your dog has been used to the tooth cleaner, apply toothpaste to your finger and swiftly run it over his teeth. Don’t bother about brushing your teeth just yet. Concentrate on contacting the tooth with the toothpaste.

Step 3: Brush gently

Brush your dog’s teeth gently with a toothbrush or your finger. Don’t forget to clean your molars (back teeth) and canines (front teeth).

Check out the video below for a terrific visual picture of how to correctly clean your dog’s teeth following the methods presented.

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How to Remove Plaque from Your Dog’s Teeth Without Brushing

Don’t worry if your dog refuses to let you wash its teeth. There are several strategies you might use at home.

Enzyme-Infused Toothpaste

Even without brushing, enzymatic toothpaste includes enzymes that break down plaque on the teeth. It is more important to make touch with the tooth than to brush it. You may apply a little amount of enzymatic toothpaste to the tooth, and it will immediately begin working.

Bones and Dental Treats

In a 2018 research involving eight beagles1, eating raw beef bone decreased plaque by 70-88 percent in only 12 days. Plaque was removed from a dog’s teeth by chewing on beef bones, hence preventing tartar formation (calcified plaque). However, bones pose significant hazards, such as shattered or damaged teeth or the introduction of a foreign body.

The only difference is that dental chews are chewy instead than hard. When a dog bites on a chewy treat, the tooth scrapes and scrubs against the surface of the treat, removing plaque from the tooth. Chews are a safer substitute for bones. However, they may also lead to foreign bodies, so keep an eye on your dog while he uses them!

Kibble

Some kibble diets are intended to specifically clean your dog’s teeth. Similar to bones and dental chews, mechanical abrasion is used to form the kibble’s shape. Not all kibble is made in this manner, but in general, kibble aids in better tooth cleaning than wet food.

What is the best toothpaste for my puppy?

Overall, vet-approved toothpaste is superior. These types of toothpaste were evaluated for quality and safety.

But not all toothpastes function similarly. Some toothpastes concentrate on breath refreshing, while others address more significant dental concerns.

Fortunately, the majority of pups have healthy teeth and gums, so a simple toothpaste should suffice. Examine the components and evaluate what is appropriate for you and your dog.

Talking to your veterinarian about appropriate oral hygiene is an excellent first step in the correct path.

FAQs

1. How often should I give my dog toothpaste?

The majority of veterinarians prescribe daily tooth brushing with canine toothpaste. This might be challenging, especially if your dog is uncooperative when it comes to allowing you to wash her teeth.

However, if your dog routinely consumes hard, dry food and dental chews, the process of chewing may help remove material from the teeth, allowing you to use dog toothpaste just once per day.

2. Can my dog safely use dog toothpaste?

It is difficult to remove toothpaste from your dog’s mouth in the same manner as when you clean your teeth. Because of this, you should never use human toothpaste on your dog; he will ingest the poisonous components you spit out and rinse away.

If you use dog toothpaste, however, the recipe includes elements that are safe for your pet to eat, so you may brush Fido’s teeth without worrying about him ingesting the toothpaste.

3. Can dog toothpaste cause stomach upset?

While the components in dog toothpaste are acceptable for consumption, it does not mean they will not upset your dog’s stomach in the same way that any meal may.

Particularly abrasive materials, such as silica and baking soda, might irritate your dog’s stomach and cause vomiting or diarrhea.

Conclusion

C.E.T. toothpaste from Virbac is BestForPets‘ (bestforpets.org) favorite toothpaste overall. It is effective, tasty, and safe for both cats and dogs.

Examine Vet’s Best toothpaste for a more affordable choice. It cannot be used on cats, however it is a more cheap enzymatic toothpaste with more natural chemicals that cannot be used on felines.

Our preferred toothpaste is Petsmile. It is quite expensive, but it contains natural components, is sugar-free, and may be administered to several dogs.

On the basis of evaluations and personal experience, these are the best puppy toothpastes for your pet.