Let’s Discuss Dog Dental Care

Dog healthDog dental care
Written By Toni Unleashed

(And Why I Don’t Brush My Dogs’ Teeth)

Yep, you read that right. I don’t brush my dogs’ teeth. And it’s not because I forget; it’s because I’m genuinely concerned about the ingredients in a lot of the toothpaste products we’re told to use. Here’s the thing: anything you put in your dog’s mouth gets swallowed. So the ingredients matter, big time.

Dog Toothpaste Ingredients Matter

There are many dog toothpastes on the market, and out of all of them, only two have passed my ingredient inspection. Two.

As you may know, I owned a Pittsburgh pet store with three locations for 16 years… so I’ve seen my fair share of products and take my time to actually read the labels. Pet owners trust me because I do the homework.

Most of the toothpaste products that are marketed for dogs contain questionable ingredients, synthetic sweeteners or things I’d never want my dogs ingesting. So what should we do? 

I’ll explain why I don’t brush my dog’s teeth later in this blog, but if you really want to, here’s some of the products that I DO recommend.

Pure & Natural Pet Tooth Gel for Dogs

Dog Oral Care | Natural Toothpaste & Dental Kits for Dogs – Black Sheep Organics

DIY: Baking soda, coconut oil (it’s naturally antibacterial), parsley or mint

Chewing Is Your Dog’s Best Dental Routine

Want the real key to dental health? Chewing. Lots of chewing. 

Dogs are natural chewers. It’s instinctual, calming, and it does wonders for plaque and tartar. Forget the green dental sticks and get back to what dogs are biologically meant to do.

Here are the best options I’ve found:

  • Freezedried and Raw Body Parts

Yes, I said it. And yes, people are always shocked.

But dried tracheas? Incredible.

Bully sticks? Fantastic.

  • Raw Bones

Not cooked. Raw.

The best bones are cow femur bones because they’re weight-bearing and super dense. Raw bones are far less likely to crack teeth (contrary to what many say), and they’re packed with nutrient-rich marrow that supports bone density.

Tip: Raw bones have calories so be sure to feed less dog food on bone days.

So there’s no real reason for me to brush my dogs’ teeth when their chewing routine is already handling it.

More Great Chew Options

  • Antlers

These are fantastic long-lasting chews. Great for strong chewers and teeth scraping.

  • Yak Chews

Another great option. After they’ve chewed most of it, you can take the little last bit of it, soak it in water, microwave, and create a tasty little cheese puff. Your dog will love it.

  • Bully Sticks

One of my all-time favorites. Dogs love them, and they do wonders for teeth.

Brands I Love:

Avoid These "Dental" Chews

Let’s talk about the stuff we’re often recommended

  • Greenies

They’ve been reformulated after choking incidents years ago, but the ingredient panel still isn’t my favorite. I’m a purist.

  • C.E.T.

Loaded with sorbitol and questionable fillers. 

  • Oravet

Proprietary ingredients = you don’t actually know what’s in it. Also a no from me.

There are so many better, safer, more natural options out there.

The Safe Chew Rule

No matter what chew you pick, here’s my number one rule: Set a timer.

I use my oven timer. Because if I get distracted or walk away, guess who will happily chew all day long?

Your dog does not need to finish the entire chew. 15–20 minutes is perfect. After that, take it away until next time. That’s how you avoid tummy problems. 

Is There a Chance of Cracked Teeth?

People ask this question a lot. Sure, just like we can crack a tooth on just about anything. But the benefits of chewing far outweigh the very small risk.


Toni Unleashed https://toniunleashed.com/
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Don’t Ignore Those Ears!