You love that minty fresh feeling after brushing your teeth. If your dog has bad breath and unclean teeth, you might be tempted to brush them with the same toothpaste you use. Can you use human toothpaste on dogs, or is there a safer alternative?
Learn how to choose a dog-safe toothpaste and tips for improving canine dental health below.
Why Local Pet Owners Need a Trustworthy Veterinarian in New York
You may have good intentions when it comes to your pup’s dental hygiene. However, brushing their teeth with certain kinds of toothpaste can lead to a wide range of health problems. Turn to a knowledgeable veterinarian in New York for all of your pet care questions and concerns.
Qualified veterinarians do more than just administer vaccines and examine animals for signs of illness. They are a valuable resource for pet parents who just want the best for their four-legged companions. Bring your pet to a trusted animal clinic for regular check-ups, and don’t hesitate to contact them if you have any questions or fears about your pet’s health.
Here’s Why Vets Advise Against Brushing a Dog’s Teeth With Your Toothpaste
Can you use human toothpaste on dogs? Not if you care about their health and well-being. Unfortunately, the ingredients found in your toothpaste can be incredibly harmful to your pup.
Humans always spit out toothpaste after brushing, but dogs don’t have this habit and will ingest it. Using a formula that isn’t vet-approved can expose them to toxic substances like fluoride and xylitol.
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a tube of regular toothpaste that doesn’t contain fluoride, since it’s known for strengthening tooth enamel and preventing cavities. However, canines should have limited exposure. Fluoride toxicity in dogs can cause unwanted symptoms like:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Rapid heart rate
- Bladder incontinence
- Seizures
Opt for a pet-friendly toothpaste to avoid xylitol. This ingredient has become a mainstay in our dental products, but it can cause low blood sugar and liver damage in dogs. Xylitol poisoning in dogs can be fatal, so be extra careful not to expose your pet to toothpaste or other products containing the artificial sweetener.
How To Choose the Right Toothpaste for Your Pet
Can you use human toothpaste on dogs every once in a while? It may be tempting to use a squirt from your tube if you happen to run out of your pup’s product. However, you’ll want to avoid exposing your fur baby to toxic ingredients for dogs at all costs.
The best way to clean a dog’s teeth is with a veterinary-approved dog toothpaste. Natural enzymes prove effective at removing plaque buildup within your pet’s mouth. Search for products that contain any of the following enzymes:
- Mutanase
- Papain
- Dextranase
- Lactoferrin
- Lactoperoxidase
Don’t worry if the formula doesn’t have the same minty smell as your toothpaste. Manufacturers often make products flavored like your dog’s favorite meat, including beef and chicken. These flavors make the experience more enjoyable, to the point where they may even look forward to their next brushing.
Excellent Canine Dental Care Goes Beyond Selecting a Toothpaste
Choosing the right toothpaste is only one small way to protect your dog’s teeth and gums. How you brush their teeth will make all the difference in their oral health going forward.
Grab either a soft-bristle toothbrush or a dog-friendly finger brush, and put a small dab of toothpaste on it. Let your pet sniff the formula before you begin focusing on their mouth. You might need to gently rub the brush along their teeth and gums to see how they respond.
From there, place the brush at a 45-degree angle and move it in a circular motion against the teeth. Brush the front and sides of their mouth as long as your dog will let you, with the goal of spending 30 seconds on each section. Once you’re done, reward them with a treat for their good behavior.
Give Your Dog Proper Dental Care at Hudson Animal Hospital
Can you use human toothpaste on dogs? What are the best tips for caring for your pet’s teeth? How can you tell if your dog has gum disease?
At Hudson Animal Hospital, we receive many questions from concerned pet parents about dog dental care. Our team is here to help your pup maintain excellent oral health. In addition to vaccinations and preventive care, we also offer dental services for canines.
Schedule a consultation to see how we can improve your dog’s dental health. Call (212) 706-4088 today!