Do I Really Need to Brush My Dog’s Teeth?

Do I Really Need to Brush My Dog’s Teeth? Here’s Why the Answer Is Yes

When it comes to pet care, most dog owners focus on feeding, walking, and regular vet visits. But one essential part of your dog’s health is often overlooked: dental care. You might be asking yourself: “Do I really need to brush my dog’s teeth?” The short answer? Yes, absolutely.
Brushing your dog’s teeth is just as important as brushing your own.

Let’s break down why it matters, what happens if you don’t, and how you can easily start a routine today.

Why Is Dental Health Important for Dogs?

Dogs are prone to the same dental problems as humans:

Plaque buildup
Tartar hardening
Bad breath (halitosis)
Gum disease (periodontal disease)
Tooth loss
Painful infections

In fact, according to the American Veterinary Dental Society, over 80% of dogs show signs of dental disease by age 3. When left untreated, dental issues can progress beyond the mouth. Bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream and cause damage to the heart, liver, and kidneys—a condition known as systemic infection.

What Happens If I Don’t Brush My Dog’s Teeth?

If you don’t brush your dog’s teeth regularly, you may start to notice:

Yellow or brown discoloration on teeth (plaque & tartar)
Red or bleeding gums
Bad breath
Drooling more than usual
Reluctance to eat or chew
Loose or missing teeth
Behavioral changes due to mouth pain

Many of these issues go unnoticed until they become advanced and expensive to treat. Regular brushing helps you catch problems early—and often prevents them entirely.

How Often Should You Brush?

Ideally, you should brush your dog’s teeth once per day. But if that’s not realistic, 3–4 times per week can still make a big difference. Even just starting a few times a week builds a habit that supports your dog’s health in the long run.

Tips for Brushing Your Dog’s Teeth

If brushing sounds like a challenge, you’re not alone—but it doesn’t have to be difficult. Here’s how to get started:

Use Dog-Safe Toothpaste
Never use human toothpaste—it can be toxic. Instead, choose a dog-specific toothpaste that’s safe to swallow and comes in tasty flavors like chicken or peanut butter.
Start Slow and Reward Often
Let your dog sniff and taste the toothpaste. Start by gently rubbing their teeth and gums with your finger before introducing a toothbrush.
Use the Right Tools
When shopping for a dog toothbrush, look for soft bristles, ergonomic design, size-appropriate heads for your dog’s mouth, angled or double-headed brushes for easy access to back teeth.
Make It Routine
Dogs thrive on routine. Try brushing at the same time every day—after a walk, before bed, or after dinner—and always follow up with praise or a treat.

PawReady Makes Brushing Easy and Effective

If you’re not sure where to start, we recommend checking out PawReady’s Complete Dental Care System. Their dog toothpaste is:

Enzymatic for deep cleaning
Made with natural ingredients
Safe to swallow
Deliciously flavored (dogs love it!)

Pair it with the PawReady Toothbrush for a stress-free, effective brushing experience. Visit www.pawready.com to learn more and shop their full line of dental products.

Your dog relies on you for everything—including their dental health.
Brushing their teeth might seem like a small task, but it has a huge impact on their well-being.

By incorporating just a few minutes of dental care into your weekly routine, you’re:

Preventing painful dental disease
Extending your dog’s lifespan
Saving money on costly vet bills
Keeping your pup happy and healthy

So the next time you wonder, “Do I really need to brush my dog’s teeth?”, remember—you’re not just brushing for fresh breath. You’re brushing for life.