Dental Chews vs Brushing: What Keeps Dog Teeth Clean?

Daily brushing with a dog toothpaste removes plaque before it hardens into tartar, and nothing else matches it. Dental chews can help as an extra, especially ones accepted by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC), but they don't replace brushing. Tartar that's already there, bad breath or sore gums need your vet.

A calm dog having its teeth gently brushed with a dog toothbrush on a kitchen floor — A minute a day beats an hour a month.

Brushing Is the Gold Standard

Plaque starts to form on teeth every day. Brushing wipes it off before it hardens. Aim for daily, or as often as you can manage; a short session most days does far more than a long one now and then.

Let your dog lick dog toothpaste off your finger for a few days.
Rub a finger along the outside of the teeth and gums, a few seconds at a time.
Switch to a finger brush or soft dog toothbrush, focusing on the outer surfaces of the back teeth.
Build up slowly with praise and treats. See cooperative care.

Never use human toothpaste; some contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.

What the VOHC Seal Means

The Veterinary Oral Health Council reviews evidence from companies that their products slow plaque or tartar build-up, and lets products that meet its standard carry a seal. It's a useful sign when you choose a chew or diet. It doesn't mean the product replaces brushing.

When Your Dog Won't Let You Brush

Some dogs take a long time to accept brushing. While you work on it, combine what you can: a finger wipe, a VOHC-accepted chew sized for your dog, and dental-friendly toys. Count chews as part of the day's calories, and supervise. Keep going with the brushing practice; many dogs come round.

When Teeth Need a Vet

Brown tartar, red or bleeding gums, bad breath, a broken tooth, chewing on one side or dropping food are reasons to see your vet. Hardened tartar can't be brushed off at home; your vet can check the mouth and advise on a professional clean. Ask for a mouth check at every annual visit.

Dental treatments and medicines: see your vet or a pet supply store with trained staff. Your vet can tell you what your dog's teeth need.

A Dental Care Kit

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A finger brush gets you started, a soft angled dog toothbrush reaches the back teeth, and dog toothpaste comes in flavors dogs like. Dental chews sized for your dog are a useful extra.

Frequently Asked Questions

Teeth questions, polished.

How often should I brush my dog's teeth?

Daily is ideal. If that's not possible, brush as often as you can; several times a week still helps.

Do dental chews work?

They can help a little, especially VOHC-accepted ones, but they don't replace brushing.

Can I use human toothpaste?

No. Some human toothpastes contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. Use dog toothpaste.

My dog already has tartar. Will brushing remove it?

No. Hardened tartar needs your vet. Brushing helps keep teeth clean afterward.