Keeping your dog’s teeth clean matters more than you might think.
Like us, dogs get plaque and tartar, which can cause bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay.
Regular brushing with a dog-friendly toothpaste helps avoid these problems.
Thankfully, most dog toothpastes come in flavors pups actually like, so it doesn’t have to be a daily battle.
Dog toothpaste is made to be swallowed safely—no foaming agents or fluoride to worry about.
Many brands add enzymes to fight bacteria and help break down plaque.
Some also freshen breath and support gum health. When you’re picking out a toothpaste, check the ingredients.
Skip anything with artificial colors, preservatives, or alcohol that could irritate your dog’s mouth.
Flavor matters too—chicken, beef, and peanut butter usually get tails wagging.
Look for proven plaque-fighters like enzymes, baking soda, or even tea tree oil.
The right toothpaste can make a big difference in your dog’s dental routine and help keep tooth brushing from becoming a chore.
Best Dog Toothpaste
Dental care isn’t just about fresh breath—it’s a big part of your dog’s health and happiness.
The right toothpaste prevents plaque, keeps gums healthy, and can make brushing less of a hassle.
Here are some top picks to help you find the best fit for your pup.
Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste
This vet-recommended enzymatic toothpaste helps remove plaque and freshens breath, and the vanilla mint flavor is surprisingly popular with a lot of dogs.
Pros
- Safe to swallow—no foaming agents
- Uses enzymes to reduce plaque
- Trusted by veterinary professionals
Cons
- Some dogs don’t like the vanilla mint flavor
- Needs daily use for best effect
- Contains titanium dioxide, which some owners avoid
Virbac’s C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste really can make dental care less stressful.
Dogs who like the vanilla mint flavor won’t fight you at brushing time.
The enzyme system breaks down plaque gently, and you don’t have to worry if your dog swallows it—no harsh chemicals here.
Stick with it, and you might see fresher breath and cleaner teeth in just a few weeks.
Virbac has been around for decades, and both vets and pet parents rely on their toothpaste for daily dental care.
Vet’s Best Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste
This natural, enzymatic gel toothpaste has a banana flavor most dogs seem to love, making it a good pick for anyone hoping to keep their dog’s mouth healthy without a fuss.
Pros
- Natural formula with aloe and neem oil
- Banana flavor appeals to a lot of dogs
- Fights plaque and tartar effectively
Cons
- Needs regular use for results
- Texture isn’t for every dog
- Wait 30 minutes before/after food or water
Vet’s Best Enzymatic Dental Gel comes in a handy tube and uses a blend of natural ingredients.
The enzymes, baking soda, and plant extracts work together to break down plaque and freshen breath.
The banana flavor helps a lot—dogs who usually resist brushing may give in for this one.
You can use a toothbrush or just your finger 2-3 times a week.
It’s gentle enough for regular use and helps keep dental issues at bay between vet visits.
The antibacterial and antifungal properties set this one apart, and the formula even works on whitening teeth over time.
Just remember to follow the instructions about waiting before and after meals for the best results.
Arm & Hammer Complete Care Enzymatic Toothpaste
This baking soda-based toothpaste delivers solid dental care with a chicken flavor that most pups seem to like.
Pros
- Chicken flavor is a hit with many dogs
- Large tube—good value
- Baking soda cleans and deodorizes naturally
Cons
- Some dogs take time to warm up to the taste
- Doesn’t foam much during brushing
- Screw-top cap isn’t the most convenient
Dental care shouldn’t feel impossible. Arm & Hammer’s enzymatic toothpaste makes things easier with a formula dogs seem to enjoy.
The chicken flavor can turn brushing into something your dog actually wants to do.
Baking soda tackles cleaning and freshens breath at the same time.
Many owners notice an improvement in breath after a few uses.
Since the formula is safe to swallow, it’s perfect for dogs who won’t sit still for rinsing.
The 6.2-ounce tube lasts a long time, so you don’t have to keep buying more every month.
For best results, start slow—let your dog taste a little before using a toothbrush.
Regular brushing with this toothpaste can help you avoid those pricey dental cleanings at the vet.
Good dental care really does keep your dog healthier and happier.
Petrodex Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste
This poultry-flavored enzymatic toothpaste is a solid buy for fighting plaque and getting dogs interested in brushing.
Pros
- Non-foaming—no rinsing needed
- Poultry flavor most dogs like
- Patented enzymes help fight plaque and tartar
Cons
- Won’t remove existing tartar
- Contains phosphates, which some owners of older dogs avoid
- Occasional tube quality issues
Petrodex’s enzymatic formula works with your dog’s biology to break down plaque before it turns to tartar.
The poultry flavor makes brushing feel more like a treat than a chore.
Since it doesn’t foam, you don’t need to worry about rinsing—just brush and go.
Use it two or three times a week, and you might notice fresher breath and cleaner teeth.
The 6.2-ounce tube lasts a while, and with over 29,000 positive ratings, plenty of pet owners trust it.
Pair with a soft-bristled brush for best results. Fewer vet visits and better kisses? Not a bad trade-off.
Buying Guide
Choosing dog toothpaste can get confusing fast. Here are a few things to help narrow it down.
Ingredients to Look For
Pick a toothpaste with ingredients that clean well and are safe to swallow.
Enzymatic formulas are great—they help break down plaque even if your brushing skills aren’t perfect.
Good ingredients include:
- Enzymes (glucose oxidase, lactoperoxidase)
- Silica for gentle scrubbing
- Sodium hexametaphosphate to help prevent tartar
- Natural flavors like poultry, beef, or peanut
Never use toothpaste with xylitol—it’s toxic to dogs.
Flavor Considerations
Taste matters. If your dog hates the flavor, brushing will be a nightmare for both of you.
Popular flavors:
- Poultry
- Beef
- Peanut butter
- Vanilla mint
Let your dog try a few—sometimes it takes a little experimenting to find the winner.
Addressing Specific Dental Issues
Match the toothpaste to your dog’s needs:
| Dental Issue | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Bad breath | Breath-freshening ingredients |
| Plaque buildup | Strong enzymatic formulas |
| Sensitive gums | Gentle, non-abrasive options |
| Tartar control | Sodium hexametaphosphate |
Ease of Use
Think about the toothpaste’s texture and how you apply it. Some are gels, some are pastes, and a few even come as sprays.
You want a consistency that sticks to the brush instead of running off. That way, you’ll actually get your dog’s teeth clean during those few moments they let you try.
