Anyone who is a fan of doggy kisses knows the struggle. Your dog jumps or climbs up on you to greet you with some sloppy licks, and you want to reciprocate the love—you really do. But there is a heavy smell of something putrid enveloping your breathing space. It may not seem quite standard to have to provide dental care for your dog, but you know their plague buildup and odorous breath tell you otherwise.
It may go deeper than bad breath, too. This can be a direct indication that your pet is having some more serious dental issues. So, you will want to provide your pet with appropriate care. Getting a specially designed toothbrush for your dog is essential, since not any old one will do. We have scoured the web in search of the best brushes to help combat that stench to give you both the gift of fresh mouths. Our reviews can help you select the best one.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites
Rating | Image | Product | Details | |
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Best Overall | BOSHEL |
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Best Value | TropiClean Tripleflex |
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Premium Choice | BringerPet |
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Pet Republique |
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Arm & Hammer FF7133 |
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The 10 Best Dog Toothbrushes of 2022
1. BOSHEL Dog Toothbrush – Best Overall
This BOSHEL Dog Toothbrush is our favorite on this list, ranking at our number one slot. We think it’s the most versatile of all the choices, making it an attractive potential buy. First, this brush is for all dogs of all sizes, so you won’t have to worry about it being too big or small for their mouth.
It’s a multi-pack set. So, it comes with two brushes that have firm bristles and long stems to provide a proper cleaning and excellent grip. It also comes with a bonus finger brush in case your dog lets you get up close and personal. The brushes work best with toothpaste, giving your dog a buildup-free enamel. And when one is over-used or needs to be changed out, you’ll have a backup ready.
While this is a very beneficial buy because of the value and overall design, the bristles may be too hard for some dogs. Which is especially true if it is close to the gumline. The finger brush may come in handy around this area, so you don’t cause your pet’s gums to bleed or undergo any unnecessary damage.
However, we still think this is the best dog toothbrush available right now.
- 3-piece pack
- For hard to reach areas and front teeth
- For dogs of all breeds and sizes
- May be too hard for sensitive gums
2. TropiClean Tripleflex Toothbrush – Best Value
When it comes to the best value, we have you covered. Save a few bucks and grab this TropiClean FBTBBL-SM Tripleflex Toothbrush. This the best dog toothbrush for the money, and it has a pretty nifty design. It has a triple-sided feature where it will scrub 360 degrees, making it reach the fronts and backs of teeth comfortably.
The main toothbrush also has an added finger brush that fits snugly on your finger. If your dog allows, you can scrub the tooth surface in this way if you find it’s easier or there are certain areas on the teeth that need a less harsh bristle. The main brush has bristles that may be too hard for sensitive teeth.
It was made to be used in combination with their toothpaste, but you can use virtually any dog toothpaste you choose. It provides a smooth cleaning experience at a very affordable price. So, if you weren’t too keen on spending much upfront, this may be for you.
- 360-degree triple-sided design
- Finger brush added as a bonus
- Affordable
- Bristles may be too hard
3. BringerPet Dog Toothbrush – Premium Choice
If you don’t mind paying a few extra dollars, this BringerPet Dog Toothbrush may be the right choice for your dog’s dental health. It’s a bit different from our other selections and a bit pricier, but it may work better for some dogs than others.
Let’s face it, not all canines are a fan of having a toothbrush forced into their mouth. This chew toy is a great way to make them feel like they are just playing a game while they gnaw away the plaque. You just put the toothpaste inside as directed and allow them to chew as they desire.
It doubles nicely as a toy and a toothbrush. However, it may not be quite as effective as a traditional toothbrush, since they won’t be able to get hard to reach places. They may also favor one side of their mouths over the other, so it cleans unevenly. If you have an anxious dog who doesn’t like you doing it for them, this is an ideal way to let them do it themselves.
- Suitable for anxious or overactive dogs
- Hassle-free for you
- Doubles as a toy
- Expensive
- May not replace traditional brushing efficiency
4. Pet Republique Dog Toothbrush
The Pet Republique Dog Toothbrush is a dual-headed selection that is perfect for reaching different areas of your dog’s mouth. The handle is 8.5 inches long, making it easy for you to switch back and forth between ends as necessary for optimal cleaning. The two size variations on either end also make them perfect for dogs of all sizes.
There is a total of three brushes in the package, making it well worth the investment. You can keep some as backups once one wears down or use different ones for each pet you have. The bristles are quite firm making them efficient for removing buildup. Again, these bristles may be too firm for some dogs, especially if they have existing dental issues or soft teeth.
Pet Republique also offers a satisfaction guarantee. If you aren’t happy with your purchase, you can contact the company for a full refund. That should help alleviate some worries if you’re on the fence about it.
- Dual-sided brush
- For all dogs
- 100% satisfaction guarantee
- May not be for sensitive teeth
5. Arm & Hammer Dog Toothbrush
The Arm & Hammer FF7133 Dog Toothbrush is another very affordable selection on the list. It has a nicely shaped handle, so it fits in your hand for ideal gripping. It has a bonus finger brush with it as well in case you need it or certain areas of your dog’s mouth.
This brush is primarily geared towards puppies and smaller breeds. With the shape and size, it makes cleaning their smaller teeth much easier. The bristles are a bit softer than most others. That can be particularly beneficial if your dog has existing dental problems or weak teeth.
It’s an excellent way to train dogs to allow you to brush their teeth. It transitions them smoothly to develop trust in the process. It comes with toothpaste as well, making it a better bargain. Some dogs may have an adverse reaction to the toothpaste, so look for signs of stomach upset after use.
- For small breeds and puppies
- Softer bristles
- Toothpaste included
- Toothpaste may not agree with all dogs
- Not for larger breeds
6. FOMATE Double-sided Dog Toothbrush
The FOMATE FPB01 Double-Sided Dog Toothbrush can be useful for some dogs, but not all. It has a long stem for proper handling. The tip is made from silicone, making it gentle on gumlines and tooth surfaces. It’s double-sided and great for massaging the gums.
This is more suitable for dogs who have gum bleeding or are sensitive to the use of bristles. However, because it is only silicone and it only has small bumped ridges for cleaning, it may not remove tartar or buildup as easily as others.
Because it doesn’t remove tartar or plaque the same way, it may not be ideal for long-term use. It would be better to use in combination with a bristled brush in some form.
- Gentle
- Good for massaging gums
- May not clean efficiently
- Not best for the sole use
7. Mind Up Toothbrush
The Mind Up Toothbrush is made for toy breeds. If you have an extra small pup and need to freshen their mouth, this may be what you’re looking for. It has a micro-head design to clean gently and efficiently. You should only use for dogs that are six pounds and below.
It also comes with a brush that fits around your thumb and finger to introduce your pet to brushing slowly so they can familiarize themselves. It is very soft but textured so you can scrub while calming your pet.
While this is an excellent starter for puppies or toy breeds, this will not suit all dogs and should only be used as recommended. If you buy for a bigger dog, the micro-head will not do an appropriate job removing buildup.
- For toy breeds and tiny puppies
- Great for brush training
- Not for dogs above six pounds
8. H&H Pets Dog Toothbrush
This H&H Pets Dog Toothbrush is fitted for your finger. Each is made with pet-safe materials so you can rest easy knowing it won’t negatively impact your pet’s mouth. These have softer bristles, making it easier on the gums and tooth surface.
It is slightly large on the finger, making it a little loose for smaller hands. It’s curved, so you can scrub around the mouth, getting both the fronts and backs of the teeth. While this may work on most dogs, it may not work for small puppies or tiny breeds.
This is an ideal pick for dogs who are well-behaved and calm enough for finger brushing. This would be a great training tool, as well. However, if you have a dog who panics when you try to brush or is too spastic to sit still, this kind of toothbrush may not work. It could potentially lead to unintentional biting, which is not so good for you.
- Fits the finger
- Softer bristles
- Not for puppies or toy breeds
- Not for rambunctious or nervous dogs
- Could lead to potential biting
- Is your dog not a fan of the toothbrush? Try a Dental Chew instead!
9. Bodhi Dog Dog Toothbrushes
The Bodhi Dog Disposable Dog Toothbrushes are a value pack. They come in many selections, but we reviewed the eight pack of brushes. They are disposable, meaning they should be thrown away after use. They’re compatible with all breeds large and small.
Not only can you use these for your dog, but they work for cats as well. So, if you have multiple pets in the home, this could be an ideal pick for you. These can be used as a tool to train your pets to allow you to brush their teeth if you use them early on.
Again, with strictly finger brushes, it is iffy on whether or not your pet will be cooperative enough for them to work if you haven’t previously or regularly cleaned their teeth. If this product doesn’t’ work for you, Bodhi does offer a moneyback guarantee.
- Easy to use
- Toss out when finished
- For experienced dogs
- Not suitable for uncooperative dogs
10. Virbac Dual Ended Toothbrush
The Virbac VR-CET305 Dual-Ended Toothbrush is our last pick. It’s not the best we found, but still worth mentioning. This is another design on the list that is double-sided for different cleaning power. It may be more suitable for light brushing.
The bristles are much softer. Thus, they are a lot less durable as well. With even slightly vigorous pressure, it causes the bristles to fray and lose shape. This won’t be the right choice if your dog requires forceful cleaning.
If you want a lasting brush made firmly for extended use, another addition to the top 10 may be more fitting. It’s more expensive but less effective than the others we have found.
- Dual-sided
- Bristles lose shape
- Not as durable
- More expensive than better products on the list
Buyer’s Guide: How to Select the Best Toothbrush For Your Dog
Dental care may not be the first thing you take into consideration when you plan out expenses for your dog. However, while it isn’t commonly discussed, it’s imperative to your dog’s overall health. As your dog ages, just like us, their teeth will suffer from the effects of normal aging. However, if you have ever had a toothache or cavity, you know just how painful it can be. There are signs that your dog may have issues, but if you aren’t paying attention, you may miss the silent cues.
Signs of Potential Dental Problems in Dogs
There are some signs you may notice right away if things are starting to take their toll on your dog’s mouth:
- Plaque buildup
Plaque shouldn’t be hard to locate on your dog’s teeth. It’s a film that can collect on the enamel. It’s comprised of bacteria and food sediment laying in the mouth that gathers into a whitish film. If you let the plaque sit on the teeth, it can turn into tartar, which isn’t easy to remove.
- Gingivitis
If you notice that the tartar on the teeth extends to the gumline and the gums seem inflamed, they may have a condition called gingivitis. It’s a bacterial disease that can cause discomfort and bleeding of the gums. If you let this condition advance, it turns into what is called periodontitis. This is much more serious of a condition that penetrates deeply into the roots of the teeth, leading to eventual tooth loss.
Advanced Dental Problems in Dogs
While dental issues may seem like they would only affect the mouth, but this is untrue. If untreated, periodontal disease can cause problems in many of the vital organs in the body. The bacteria caused by periodontitis can travel through the blood, damaging the kidneys, liver, heart, and neurological areas of the brain.
The number one factor in preventing this disease from problematically developing in your dog is simple routine dental hygiene and maintenance. However, if the condition is already developing, it may show physical symptoms such as:
- Bad breath
- Tooth loss
- Irritated gums
- Tooth discoloration
- Drooling
- Problems eating
Contributing Factors to Dental Health Decline
Several aspects come into play when it comes to dental health. Over time, just like with humans, plaque and buildup can form on the teeth that only worsen with time and leads to other serious problems. Not only dental habits themselves are to blame. There is an array of issues that could potentially make your dog more susceptible to dental problems.
Wet dog food diets are especially bad for causing plaque to form on the teeth. Dry kibble gives a crunch that can clean the teeth while they eat. Not that dry kibble won’t leave behind traces, as all food will cause plaque. However, wet dog food doesn’t clean the teeth. It merely lays on the enamel and the mouth, causing bad breath and tartar.
If your dog doesn’t get enough calcium in their diet, this can also be an issue. Without enough calcium, the enamel on their teeth will not be as healthy, leading to bacterial breakdown on the surface. This can eventually cause cavities and tooth decay.
Giving your dog table scraps or people food can also lead to dental decline. Dogs are not meant to eat the foods we do. Not only does this affect their mouth, but it can also considerably have an impact on the rest of their bodies as well. As tempting as it is to share goodies with your pet, it’s best to hand them their own treats for dogs instead.
Importance of Dental Hygiene for Canines
Every dog will be different. You will have to find a brush that works with both their mouth size and their temperament. Some dogs will allow you to clean their teeth, others must have gradual training, and some never will. Even with the toughest behavior, some cooperation is key. There are ways to coax your dog into routine cleaning, even if it means outsmarting them.
Many kinds of toothpaste don’t even require the use of a toothbrush. There are ways to ensure your dog has a clean tooth surface without having to devote a large chunk of your week to it. But in any event, making time to be sure that they aren’t suffering from hygiene issues can impact their overall wellbeing.
As we discussed, tooth neglect and bacterial overgrowth can expand to other areas of the body through the bloodstream. It can cause immense issues, vet expenses, and valuable time later down the line. Not to mention, it can significantly reduce your pet’s lifespan. A few minutes per week brushing can eliminate more significant and much more costly issues down the road for both you and your dog.
Conclusion
With any luck, our reviews have propelled you toward purchasing a product to clean up your dog’s grubby mouth. Our top selection, BOSHEL Dog Toothbrush, would meet the vast majority’s needs. It’s a multi-pack with both a toothbrush and a finger brush. The bristles are effective and long-lasting. And we’re confident you won’t have to buy more anytime soon.
If you are looking to save some hard-earned cash, the TropiClean FBTBBL-SM Tripleflex Toothbrush would be your best bet. It’s firm, operative, and it comes with an optional finger brush. You can’t beat the quality for the price. However, remember it may be too harsh for dogs who already have soft or decaying teeth.
If you have an active dog that doesn’t so much enjoy your hands in their mouth, the BringerPet Dog Toothbrush may be right for you. You may have to pay a little extra, but you can chalk this up to double dental care with playtime. It has a place to put the toothpaste in so your dog can gnaw away at their leisure.
We reviewed a lot of great products and hand-picked the best just for you. Hopefully, our reviews have helped you choose the right brush for your pup.
Contents
- A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites
- The 10 Best Dog Toothbrushes of 2022
- 1. BOSHEL Dog Toothbrush – Best Overall
- 2. TropiClean Tripleflex Toothbrush – Best Value
- 3. BringerPet Dog Toothbrush – Premium Choice
- 4. Pet Republique Dog Toothbrush
- 5. Arm & Hammer Dog Toothbrush
- 6. FOMATE Double-sided Dog Toothbrush
- 7. Mind Up Toothbrush
- 8. H&H Pets Dog Toothbrush
- 9. Bodhi Dog Dog Toothbrushes
- 10. Virbac Dual Ended Toothbrush
- Buyer’s Guide: How to Select the Best Toothbrush For Your Dog
- Conclusion