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The Best Dog Toothbrush

dog with toothbrush
Tatyana Kalmatsuy / Getty

Designed with comfort in mind, dog toothbrushes cater to all kinds of dogs from small Chihuahuas to Great Danes. These toothbrushes aren’t just practical, they’re also fun to use and make grooming a bonding experience. We compared popular brands and found Troiclean offers the best

tropiclean dog oral kit
amazon

TropiClean Fresh Breath Dog Oral Care Kit

The TropiClean Fresh Breath Dog Oral Care Kit is specifically for small to medium-sized dogs. The kit includes a dog toothbrush and a fresh, minty-scented, easy-to-use gel that your pet won’t be able to resist. The smell alone will leave your dog’s breath refreshingly minty. The toothbrush bristles can easily reach corners of the mouth and prevent plaque buildup, which is critical in maintaining good oral health. The easy-to-use gel is not only appealing to dogs but also super effective in controlling plaque and tartar, which is why this is our top pick for a dog toothbrush.

Key Features:

  • Available flavors: Mint
  • Age range: All life stages
  • Item firmness: Soft
  • Includes toothbrush, gel, drops
  • Manual operation only

Pros:

  • Prevents teeth plaque build-up
  • Comes with a fresh minty scent
  • Easy to use and not messy

Cons:

  • Some dogs dislike the toothpaste flavor

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jasper dog oral kit

Jasper Dog Toothbrush

The Jasper Dog Toothbrush has a 360° tooth brushing kit designed for dog teeth cleaning. This isn’t your average dog toothbrush. The grip fits comfortably on a finger for more control while brushing. It’s not just for dogs either – it works well for puppies, cats, and other small pets.

People especially love the surround bristles, which provide thorough cleaning from every angle. Each pack comes with two toothbrushes, so remember to swap out the brush every few months for cleanliness. It’s particularly ideal for small-mouthed pets who often struggle with traditional, larger brushes.

Key Features:

  • 360º patented design
  • Suitable for small and large pets
  • Adjustable fit for various finger sizes
  • 100% BPA and phthalate-free silicone
  • Package includes two finger brushes

Pros:

  • Efficient pet oral hygiene tool
  • Enables easy brushing process
  • Enhances pet trust and comfort

Cons:

  • May cause finger injuries

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vets best dog oral kit

Vet’s Best Dog Toothbrush & Enzymatic Toothpaste Kit

The Vet’s Best Dog Toothbrush & Enzymatic Toothpaste Kit is enriched with enzymes and natural ingredients like neem oil, grapefruit seed extract, baking soda, and aloe, the toothpaste not only removes plaque and tartar but also keeps your dog’s breath fresh.

Similar to Tropiclean, the toothbrush is triple-headed, so you can clean from more angles. Plus, this dog toothbrush kit is super effective at reducing plaque. The natural ingredients are gentle but efficient, ensuring your dog’s teeth are whitened and their breath is fresh without any harsh side effects. Plus, the kit comes with a bonus care guide and an additional finger brush, making it the ultimate package for your dog’s oral health. This could easily become a normal part of a healthy regimen for your dog, which will contribute to their overall good health. Give it a try, and you’ll see why customers love this dog toothbrush for maintaining their canine companion’s dental hygiene.

Key Features:

  • Vet-formulated enzymatic toothpaste
  • Includes baking soda and aloe ingredients
  • Triple-headed toothbrush design
  • Suitable for regular dental care
  • Helps in plaque and tartar removal

Pros:

  • Improves dog’s breath
  • Reduces gum bleeding
  • Decreases plaque buildup

Cons:

  • Requires frequent cleaning of bristles

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pet & pupps-dog oral kit

Pets & Pupps Pet Toothbrush

The Pets & Pupps Pet Toothbrush for Dogs and Cats is a dual-head brush with two different sizes to suit small or large dogs. Plus, it offers the best handle grip for squirmy dogs. The soft bristles are effective and prevent discomfort for sensitive dogs.

The best part of this option is that it’s extremely durable against dog chewing. With the option between a one-count pack or two-count pack of these dog toothbrushes, you can make sure you always have a spare handy.

Key Features:

  • Unique dual-head design
  • Suitable for pets of all sizes
  • Made from premium pet-safe material
  • Compatible with any dog toothpaste
  • Set of one, two, or four toothbrushes

Pros:

  • Durable even with heavy chewing
  • Has soft bristles for gentle care
  • Non-slip grip for easy handling

Cons:

  • Lack of color variety

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pet republique dog oral kit

Pet Republique Dog Toothbrush Set of Six

Pet Republique Dog Toothbrush is tackles bad breath and prevent serious health issues. Grime and tartar can lead to painful infections that could affect your pet’s kidneys, heart, and liver. With regular brushing using dog toothbrushes, you’re not just improving your pet’s dental hygiene but also affecting their overall health.

These high-quality bristles have been tested and controlled for hardness, ensuring they effectively brush off grime and tartar without causing discomfort. The dual head design provides a small and large brush on each end, making it easier to clean different areas of your pet’s mouth. The long handle, measuring at 8.5 inches, helps reach into the deepest parts of the mouth. A portion of the profits goes to the American Animal Rescue Society, supporting care for abandoned dogs and cats.

Key Features:

  • Dual-headed design with small and large brushes
  • The package includes six toothbrushes
  • Designed for both small and large pets
  • Handle length: 8.5″
  • Available in two different colors

Pros:

  • High-quality yet affordable
  • Long-lasting and durable
  • Light and user-friendly

Cons:

  • Not heavy-duty, too light for some

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dog with toothbrush
LightFieldStudios / Getty

Your Ultimate Buying Guide to Getting a Dog Toothbrush

Your dog’s dental hygiene contributes to their overall wellness. Bad teeth can lead to more severe health issues. That’s why you may want a dog toothbrush so you can clean their teeth. But not all dog toothbrushes are alike. Some are better for large dogs versus small dogs, for example. To get the right dog toothbrush for you and your furry friend, check out the following factors that you should keep in mind before buying.

Brush Size

The size of the dog toothbrush is a crucial consideration. A large brush might be great for a big dog, but uncomfortable for a small dog. Some dog toothbrushes come with dual heads, so you get one larger brush and one smaller brush on the same toothbrush. This can be a good option for those who are unsure or who have multiple pets. Try to find a dog toothbrush that will be a comfortable size for your pet.

Bristle Hardness

Bristle hardness is a delicate balance. A dog toothbrush that is too hard could hurt your pet, but one that is too soft may not get the job dog. Look for bristles that fall in between, or try out a couple of different dog toothbrushes to find the one with the right bristle hardness for your pet.

Handle Length

Consider the length of the handle of the dog toothbrush. Some handles are very long and let you reach deeper into the dog’s mouth, while others are shorter and may be tougher to use. Some dog toothbrushes have no handles at all! These finger brushes go right on your finger so you can scrub your dog’s teeth directly. This is an important consideration when you’re buying. Think about the size of your dog’s mouth and what will be most comfortable for them. Will they let you scrub with your finger or do you need a handle to tackle this job?

Handle Sturdiness

When you’re dealing with a dog, especially a fussy dog, you might need a sturdy handle on your toothbrush. Many dogs will try to chew on the handle, which is why some dog toothbrushes will actually advertise as being sturdy enough to withstand chewing. If you aren’t sure if your dog will chew, you may want to opt for a sturdier handle just in case.

Pet-Safe Materials

These dog toothbrushes go into your dog’s mouth, so you definitely want to make sure they’re made of pet-safe materials. As noted above, many dogs will even chew on a dog toothbrush. You wouldn’t want them to be chewing on something that is potentially toxic to them. Check what the manufacturer says about the materials of the dog toothbrush. Some will say they are BPA- and phthalate-free, or that they’re made from pet-safe materials.

Price

Price is always a concern when investing in a new product. Fortunately, a dog toothbrush shouldn’t typically break the bank. Still, you can get some great value if you know how to shop around. You might look for packs of multiple toothbrushes and save some money that way, for example. Ultimately, a dog toothbrush should not come as a major investment, but it never hurts to stay price-conscious.

Common Questions About Dog Toothbrush

Why do dogs need a toothbrush?

Just like humans, dogs can develop dental problems like tartar and plaque buildup and gingivitis. Regular brushing with a dog toothbrush can help prevent these issues and keep your pet’s mouth healthy.

How often should I brush my dog’s teeth?

Ideally, you should try to brush your dog’s teeth daily. However, if that’s not possible, aim for at least three to four times per week.

How do I use a dog toothbrush?

Begin by allowing your dog to get used to the toothbrush by letting them sniff and lick it. Apply a small amount of dog-friendly toothpaste, then gently lift your dog’s lips and brush the teeth in a circular motion. Be sure to reach the back molars and canines, which can be prone to tartar build-up.

What kind of toothpaste should I use with a dog toothbrush?

It’s important to use toothpaste that’s specifically designed for dogs. Human toothpaste can contain ingredients like fluoride that are harmful to dogs if swallowed.

How do I clean the dog’s toothbrush?

After each use, rinse the toothbrush with warm water to remove any remaining toothpaste and debris. Let it air dry before storing it to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.

My dog doesn’t like getting their teeth brushed. What can I do?

Gradually get your dog used to the process. Start by using your finger to massage their gums before introducing the brush. Offering a reward after brushing can also make the process more enjoyable for your pet.

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