The 10 Best Dog Toothpastes of 2026 – An Expert Guide
Just like humans, dogs require regular dental hygiene to maintain healthy teeth and gums. In fact, periodontal disease is the most common clinical condition in adult dogs according to the American Veterinary Dental College. By age three, most dogs have some evidence of periodontal disease which can lead to pain, tooth loss, and other health issues.
Brushing a dog‘s teeth is one of the most effective ways to reduce plaque and tartar buildup, fight bad breath, and prevent gum disease. But with so many dog toothpastes on the market, how do you choose the best one for your furry friend? In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll break down the top 10 dog toothpastes of 2024, explain what ingredients to look for, and share tips for making teeth brushing a positive experience for your pup.
Key Ingredients in Dog Toothpaste
When shopping for a dog toothpaste, always check the ingredient list first. Never use human toothpaste, which contains fluoride and other substances that are toxic to dogs if ingested. Instead, look for these key ingredients that are safe and beneficial for your dog‘s oral health:
Enzymatic formulas: Many veterinary-recommended toothpastes contain naturally derived enzymes like glucose oxidase and lactoperoxidase. When mixed with oxygen and water, these enzymes create an antibacterial effect that helps to dissolve plaque and tartar.
Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda): This gentle abrasive helps to remove surface stains and freshen breath. It also has minor antibacterial properties.
Calcium carbonate: Another mild abrasive that helps to remove plaque and tartar buildup without damaging tooth enamel.
Silica: This ingredient is often used to provide additional cleaning and polishing power.
Potassium sorbate: A preservative that prevents the growth of mold and bacteria in the toothpaste.
Flavorings: Since dogs don‘t spit out toothpaste like humans do, dog toothpastes rely on appetizing flavors to encourage them to lick the paste around their mouth. Common flavors include poultry, beef, peanut butter, and vanilla.
Avoid toothpastes that contain artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. Also use caution with toothpastes that contain tea tree oil, which can be harmful if swallowed in large amounts.
Our Top Picks for the Best Dog Toothpastes of 2024
Best Overall: Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste
Flavor: Poultry, Beef, Seafood, Malt, Vanilla-Mint
Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste is our top choice because it checks all the boxes: It contains natural antibacterial enzymes, has a great flavor selection, and is widely recommended by veterinarians. The enzymes work to break down plaque and tartar while the toothpaste creates a protective barrier against future buildup. It‘s also safe for both adult dogs and puppies. Prices range from $10-14 depending on size and flavor.
Best Budget-Friendly Option: Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Toothpaste
Flavor: Peanut Butter
At around $5 per tube, Nylabone Advanced Oral Care is an affordable, high-quality enzymatic toothpaste. Its formula is scientifically proven to reduce plaque and tartar buildup with regular use. The peanut butter flavor will tempt even picky pups. Plus, it comes in a 2.5 oz tube which is a great value.
Best for Sensitive Gums: Petsmile Professional Dog Toothpaste
Flavor: London Broil
If you have a dog with sensitive gums, Petsmile Professional is an excellent choice. Instead of harsh abrasives, it contains Calprox, which breaks down the protein pellicle on teeth that plaque and bacteria stick to. It‘s free of fluoride, parabens, sulfates, and other ingredients that can irritate sensitive mouths. At $25 per tube it‘s pricier than other options, but worth it for dogs who need a gentler formula. Bonus: The London Broil flavor was developed by pet food experts to mimic the taste of a steak dinner!
Best Tartar Control: Arm & Hammer Complete Care Toothpaste
Flavor: Vanilla Ginger
For heavy-duty tartar control, we recommend Arm & Hammer Complete Care Toothpaste with baking soda. The enzymatic formula is boosted by the addition of tetrapotassium pyrophosphate, an ingredient that helps prevent tartar crystals from forming on teeth. The baking soda naturally whitens and deodorizes as well. While some dogs may need to acquire a taste for the vanilla ginger flavor, it leaves their breath fresh and clean.
Best for Puppies: Vetoquinol Enzadent Toothpaste for Dogs & Cats
Flavor: Poultry
Vetoquinol Enzadent Toothpaste is our pick for the best puppy toothpaste because of its veterinary-strength formula that‘s safe and effective for dogs of all ages. The poultry flavor is appealing to young pups and the enzymatic formula provides powerful plaque-fighting action while being gentle on new teeth. The 3.2 oz tube also lasts a long time which is great for training your puppy to have their teeth brushed regularly.
Best for Dogs with Bad Breath: Sentry Petrodex Dental Kit
Flavor: Poultry
Sentry Petrodex Dental Kit is a great all-in-one solution for dogs with halitosis. It includes a veterinary-strength enzymatic toothpaste in a tasty poultry flavor, a dual-ended 360 degree toothbrush, and a finger toothbrush for cleaning hard-to-reach areas. The hydrogen peroxide in the toothpaste formula releases oxygen to fight bad breath bacteria. With a retail price under $10, it‘s an affordable and effective way to get rid of your dog‘s stinky breath.
Best Natural Toothpaste: Radius USDA Organic Dental Gel
Flavor: Sweet Potato & Cinnamon
If you prefer a toothpaste made with organic, food-grade ingredients, Radius USDA Organic Dental Gel is a great choice. It relies on coconut oil, sweet potato, and cinnamon to freshen breath and reduce plaque. Coconut oil has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties while sweet potato provides a tasty flavor and vitamin C, and cinnamon acts as a mild antiseptic. The tan color can take some getting used to, but this toothpaste is free of artificial colors, preservatives, and pesticides.
Best Plaque & Tartar Removal: Virbac C.E.T. VeggieDent Fr3sh Tartar Control Chews
Okay, so these aren‘t technically a toothpaste – but we had to include Virbac C.E.T. VeggieDent Fr3sh Chews because they are veterinarian recommended for reducing plaque and tartar buildup, especially in dogs who won‘t tolerate toothbrushing. These plant-based chews have a Z-shape and porous texture that allows the teeth to penetrate the chew, scrubbing away plaque with each bite. They‘re made with real vegetables like spinach and alfalfa and contain no artificial colors or preservatives. Give your dog one chew daily for cleaner teeth and fresh breath.
Tips for Brushing Your Dog‘s Teeth
Now that you‘ve picked out the perfect toothpaste, follow these tips to get your dog comfortable with an at-home dental hygiene routine:
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Start slow. Let your dog lick a small amount of toothpaste from your finger to get them used to the taste and texture. Then try massaging their gums and teeth with your finger.
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Introduce a toothbrush designed for dogs. Let them investigate the brush before putting any toothpaste on it. Focus on the front teeth and outsides of the canine and back teeth at first.
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Use praise and high-value treats. Make teeth brushing a positive experience by rewarding your dog with pets, verbal praise, and their favorite treat afterwards.
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Be consistent. Brush your dog‘s teeth every day if possible, but aim for at least 3-4 times per week. The more often you brush, the more comfortable your dog will become with the process.
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Schedule professional cleanings. Even with regular at-home care, most dogs benefit from a professional dental cleaning under anesthesia every 1-3 years. Your vet can assess your dog‘s oral health and make a personalized recommendation.
The Cost of Professional Dental Cleanings for Dogs
The cost of a professional dental cleaning for dogs varies widely depending on your location, the type of veterinary practice, your dog‘s age and size, the severity of dental disease, and whether any extractions or other procedures are necessary. According to Preventive Vet, the average cost for dog teeth cleaning is between $500-1,000.
Having your dog‘s teeth cleaned regularly can actually save you money in the long run. Advanced dental disease that goes untreated can lead to abscesses, jaw fractures, and expensive tooth extractions. It can also allow harmful bacteria to enter the bloodstream and cause heart, liver, and kidney problems. Investing in preventative dental care helps your dog live a longer, healthier, pain-free life.
Other Products for Your Dog‘s Dental Health
In addition to toothpaste and chews, consider adding these items to your dog‘s dental care toolkit:
- Toothbrushes designed for dogs: Choose from finger brushes, angled brushes, small-head brushes, and double-ended brushes
- Dental wipes: Great for spot-cleaning when you don‘t have time for a full brushing session
- Water additives: Liquid formulas you add to your dog‘s drinking water to combat plaque, tartar, and bad breath
- Dental sprays: An easy, brush-free way to disrupt plaque formation after meals and improve smelly breath
- Dental diets: Specially formulated kibble that scrubs teeth clean as your dog chews
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if my dog has dental problems?
A: Some of the most common signs of dental disease in dogs include bad breath, yellow or brown deposits on the teeth, red or inflamed gums, difficulty chewing, excessive drool, and pawing at the mouth. See your vet if you notice any of these symptoms.
Q: Can I use baking soda to brush my dog‘s teeth?
A: While baking soda is safe in small amounts and helps freshen breath, it doesn‘t have the same plaque-fighting power as an enzymatic dog toothpaste. It can also be too abrasive for dogs with sensitive gums.
Q: What‘s the best flavor of dog toothpaste?
A: The best flavor is the one your dog likes best and will let you brush with. Popular flavors like poultry, peanut butter, and beef tend to have the highest acceptance rate by dogs. You may need to experiment with a few different flavors to find one your dog really enjoys.
Q: Can you use dog toothpaste on cats?
A: Some dog toothpastes are formulated to be safe for cats too, but it‘s always best to check the label. Many enzymatic dog toothpastes are interchangeable, but the flavor and abrasive ingredients may differ. When in doubt, choose a toothpaste made specifically for cats.
Q: How long does a tube of dog toothpaste last?
A: This depends on the size of the tube and how often you use it, but most dog toothpastes have a shelf life of 18-24 months. A good rule of thumb is to replace the tube every 3-6 months to ensure the ingredients are still active and effective.
The Bottom Line
Brushing your dog‘s teeth may not be the most glamorous part of pet parenthood, but it‘s a small task that can make a big difference in your dog‘s overall health and happiness. By choosing a high-quality dog toothpaste and being consistent with at-home oral hygiene, you can help your canine companion avoid painful dental problems down the road.
Remember, it‘s never too late to start a dental care routine for your dog. Even if your pooch already has signs of periodontal disease, daily tooth brushing can help slow its progression and improve their quality of life. If you‘re ever unsure about your dog‘s dental health, don‘t hesitate to consult with your veterinarian – they are your best resource for keeping those canine chompers in tip-top shape!
