10 Best Dog Toothbrush UK for Cleaning Dogs' Teeth - WeWantDogs (2024)

Brushing a dog’s teeth is important, and at some point, every dog owner decided to buy a dog toothbrush for their dog. So, if you are also, looking for a dog toothbrush for your furry friend then, this article is the right place to end your search. By the end of this article, you will find the best dog toothbrush UK.

I know it’s hard to trust the recommendations but, our team has carried out some extensive research and conjured up the best dog toothbrushes that are available in the market. To help you pick the suitable dog toothbrush, I have included a detailed buying guide as well. This guide will provide you with information about different dog toothbrushes, perks, drawbacks, and tips for using them effectively.

Best Dog Toothbrush UK

A dog toothbrush is slightly different from a normal toothbrush i.e. human toothbrush. The bristles of dog toothbrushes are soft and designed to clean a canine’s teeth and gums without causing irritation, bleeding, or damage. Also, a dog toothbrush is longer, broader and more rounded compared to human toothbrushes.

Now, that you have a basic understanding of the difference between a normal toothbrush and a dog toothbrush, it’s time to have a closer look at some of the best dog toothbrushes in the UK. Below are some of the dog toothbrushes that you can consider buying for your dog for a better brushing experience:

1. Beaphar Double-Ended Toothbrush

The double-ended dog toothbrush from Beaphar is made to access hard-to-clean areas in a dog’s mouth. So, if there is excessive tartar and plaque buildup in your furry friend’s mouth, this double-ended toothbrush will come in handy. The soft grip handle makes sure that the brush doesn’t slip while brushing the teeth of your furry friend.

The ergonomic design and the varied length of bristles ensure proper cleaning of hard-to-target areas within your furry friend’s mouth. The brush will help reduce the plaque, tartar, and bad smell from your dog’s mouth.

Key Features:

• Double-ended
• Soft grip handle

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Further, the manufacturer claims that the toothbrush will provide better results with their advanced-dual enzyme toothpaste. It has a liver flavour and you can buy it with the toothbrush as a combo.

2. Pets and Pupps Toothbrush for Dogs

If you are looking for a durable dog toothbrush with soft bristles, Pets and Pupps Toothbrush for dogs is the one you need to consider. This dog toothbrush has a thick surface and soft bristles. It will help you get rid of the plaque from your furry friend’s teeth to make them stronger and maintain healthy gums.

In addition, the bristles of this dog toothbrush are made using nylon so, even if the dog is not behaving properly or moving too much the gums will sustain no damage.

Key Features:

• Thick surface
• Double-ended
• Anti-slip handle

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As per the manufacturer, their dog toothbrush is made with a unique patent pending design and optimized length to make sure it is useful for every dog.

3. Vet’s Best Triple-Headed Toothbrush for Dogs

For dog owners looking for a dog toothbrush with three bristle heads, Vet’s Best Triple-Headed Toothbrush for Dogs will be the perfect choice. The three heads in this toothbrush clean the dog’s tooth effectively from every possible angle. Also, the speed of brushing is increased because of the three-headed bristles.

In addition, the grip of this dog toothbrush is comfortable for you to use without having to worry about it slipping off the hand while brushing.

Key Features:

• Triple-headed
• Textured comfort grip

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Further, you can also buy the Vet’s Best Dental Gel and Vet’s Best Breath freshener to obtain good cleaning results while using the Vet’s Dog Triple-headed toothbrush.

4. Dog Finger Toothbrush by MZHJYWJW

If you are looking for a finger dog toothbrush then, you can explore the Dog Finger Toothbrush by MZHJYWJW. This dog toothbrush is made with safe food-grade silicone which is considered safe and non-toxic for the dogs. Also, the 360° bristles of these fingertip dog toothbrushes facilitate the proper cleaning of the dog’s teeth.

In addition, you have better control over the areas you clean, especially the hard-too-reach ones with more plaque and tartar buildup.

Key Features:

• 360° bristles
• Silicone material

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Further, the bristles of these finger dog toothbrushes are soft so, there is no risk of injuries to the dog’s teeth or gums.

5. Cherish Pet Care Dog Teeth Cleaning Kit

For dog owners who need a double sided dog toothbrush, Cherish Pet Care Dog Teeth Cleaning Kit is a feasible option. This is suitable for dog owners who prefer to thoroughly clean the teeth and gums of their furry friend will benefit from this dog toothbrush as it is small in size compared to other dog toothbrushes.

The small size makes it easy for them to cover inner areas efficiently and clean them properly. Also, the bristles of this dog toothbrush are chewable and won’t break if chewed on by the dog.

Key Features:

• Double-sided
• Silicone bristle

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Further, the manufacturer also provides extra toothbrushes to provide more options to the dog owner. You will find one fingertip dog toothbrush and an extra-small nylon bristled dog toothbrush.

6. Molain Dog Toothbrush

If you are in search of a dog toothbrush that has a 360° brush head then you should consider buying the Molain Dog Toothbrush. This dog toothbrush has 360° implanted silicone filament bristles which ease up the cleaning process. The silicone material used in the bristles ensures there is no damage done to the dog’s teeth or gums.

The 360° design cleans the tartar and plaque efficiently and is suitable for every dog breed. The handle is made using rubber which ensures good grip and no chance of the brush slipping off your hands.

Key Features:

• Silicone bristle
• 360° brush head

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Further, these toothbrushes will come in a set of two so, will help you use them for a longer duration without worrying about replacing them.

7. Dog Toothbrush with Toothpasteby OUR DOGS LIFE

Dog owners who prefer having a complete teeth cleaning kit can surely consider buying OUR DOGS Life Dog Toothbrush. This dog toothbrush comes with toothpaste and two silicone fingerbrushes to help dog owners provide better dental care to their furry friends.

The triple-headed feature of this dog toothbrush ensures that all the areas of the dog’s mouth are covered and plaque and tartar are removed as well.

Key Features:

• Nylon bristle
• Triple-headed

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In addition, the manufacturer of this dog toothbrushing kit provides a 30-day guarantee on its product as they are sure about their product’s testing.

8. RUCACIO Dog Toothbrush Chew Toy

If your furry friend is not comfortable with the toothbrush or you are not confident about using one, then you can consider buying the RUCACIO Dog Toothbrush Chew Toy. This dog chew toy is made using strong durable rubber which can withstand dog’s chewing. It has teeth brushing bristles that facilitate teeth cleaning of dogs.

In addition, this dog toothbrush chew is made of different molar bumps which brush the dog’s teeth and clean tartar while the dog is playing with it.

Key Features:

• Teeth brushing bristles
• Rubber granular cleaner

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Further, the manufacturer also claims that their dog chew toothbrush will relieve the dog from depression, stress, and separation anxiety.

9. Zentric Dog Toothbrush

If you are in search of a flexible dog toothbrush then, Zentric Dog Toothbrush by Heyzeibo might be the perfect choice. This dog toothbrush is made using strong and durable material. The thick bristles on one side and raised points on the other ensure that the tartar on the surface of the dog’s teeth and residue in the crevices are dealt with.

The design of the handle is flexible and unlike other dog toothbrushes, you will have better control of the angle while brushing your furry friend’s teeth. The material is durable so, don’t worry about damage.

Key Features:

• Thick bristle
• Silicone handle
• Two brush heads (360°)

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In addition, the two types of brush heads make sure that they thoroughly clean the stains and dirt between the teeth. Using it daily is recommended to reduce the risk of tooth and gum problems.

10. PetSol Dental Care Kit for Dogs

For dog owners who like having a proper dental kit will surely like the PetSol Dental Care Kit. This kit includes toothpaste with advanced dental formulas to provide the best possible dental care to the dogs. The bristles of this double headed toothbrush are effective so, you can use it to access harder regions of the mouth.

Also, the silicone fingerbrush is provided alongside the dog toothbrush and toothpaste. So, if your furry friend is not comfortable with the brush, you can try using the finger brush.

Key Features:

• Long handle
• Double-headed

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In addition, the toothpaste provided in this dental kit is vet-approved and mint flavour is luring for dogs so, you won’t face issues while brushing teeth with your dog.

Buying Guide: Best Dog Toothbrush UK

Now, after having looked at some of the best dog toothbrushes, it’s obvious for you to get confused with the choices. Trust me, our team at Wewantdogs also struggled while eliminating certain dog toothbrush products from the list. So, to help you decide, we have included this buying guide to provide better insights into different prospects, our team had gone through while selecting the best dog toothbrushes.

But, before we get into the specifics, it’s important to understand why you need a dog toothbrush in the first place.

Dog toothbrushes – Why not use a normal toothbrush for the dog?

A dog toothbrush is a useful tool in cleaning a dog’s teeth, and gum. It also prevents plaque, tooth decay, tartar, and other dental issues which often affect the dog’s overall health. The design of the dog toothbrushes is different from normal toothbrushes. Below are some of the common features of dog toothbrushes:

• Small head
• Soft bristles
• Curved handle
• Long handle

Why the normal toothbrush for the dog is not feasible?

The normal toothbrush is less effective because of its limited features, and there are plenty of other reasons why it’s not feasible to use on dogs. Here are some reasons why normal toothbrushes are not helpful for use on dogs.

• Normal toothbrushes are too wide, and the bristles are stiff and abrasive. This can lead to injuries like bleeding and inflammation in the dog. Dog toothbrushes are small and made such that they will fit a dog’s mouth and make it easy for dog owners to access the gums and teeth.
• The tartar and plaque in the dog’s teeth are not cleaned properly with a normal toothbrush. There are some tartar and plaque left which trigger infection and other dental issues in dogs. Dog toothbrushes have bristles that come between all the crevices around the gums and break the plaque and other sticky substances that are stuck in the dog’s mouth.
• Dog toothbrush has different features and comes in different types such as dual-ended, three-sided, finger, and multiple-heads whereas, a normal toothbrush cannot offer the same functionality or features.

Factors to Consider While Buying a Dog Toothbrush

Dog toothbrushes provide different features and are better than normal toothbrushes still, there are some buying prospects that dog owners need to consider while buying dog toothbrushes. Below are some of the factors to consider while buying a dog toothbrush:

#1. Size and design of the dog toothbrush

The toothbrush you pick should fit your dog’s mouth and also, have a curved handle to access different regions of the mouth. The size and design are crucial to consider as a toothbrush that is too big or too small in size will not reach the areas of the dog’s mouth, and this will leave some tartar and plaque behind. Also, if the size of a dog’s toothbrush is big, the dog could sustain injury to the mouth.

Further, the design of the dog toothbrush should allow you to hold it comfortably and provide better control while cleaning a dog’s teeth (non-slip grip). A long curved handle helps in providing proper grip and also, helps with the access of molars and back teeth easily. Also, make sure the design of the bristles is soft and gentle on the dog’s gum and enamel. Hard or sharp bristles could lead to bleeding issues.

#2. Type of dog toothbrush

There are different types of dog toothbrushes available but, you need to match your furry friend’s mouth size and consider their preferences before picking a particular type. In general, you will have options such as finger, dual-ended, three-sided, or multiple-heads. Based on the comfort and tolerance levels of your furry friend for tooth brushing, you can pick the suitable dog toothbrush.

For instance, your dog may like finger toothbrushes as it allows you to massage the gums. Likewise, some dogs prefer dual-headed toothbrushes with small and large heads because of different teeth sizes.

#3. Flexibility and durability

The flexibility and durability of the dog toothbrush are important buying prospects as it has a direct impact on the cleaning effect. The more flexible the toothbrush is, the better the cleaning. This is mainly because a flexible dog toothbrush will access more areas of the dog’s mouth, especially the hard-to-reach back teeth and molars.

In addition, a flexible dog toothbrush is gentle on the gums and teeth hence, less chances for irritation or bleeding issues. Now, a durable dog toothbrush refers to its strength and whether it can withstand wear and tear while used, especially dog chewing. A durable dog toothbrush will last longer as it will not break or get damaged even if the dog chews on them. Further, it also has no shedding bristles or harburing of bacteria which makes it more safe and hygienic for the dogs.

#4. Bristle shape and type

A bristle’s shape and type are significant to consider as they affect the teeth and gum cleaning process. You must look for bristles with a shape that facilitates soft and gentle cleaning of the dog’s gums and enamel. The shape of bristles makes a huge difference in how well they reach different areas of your furry friend’s mouth and get rid of tartar and plaque.

For instance, some of the dog toothbrushes have pointed or tapered bristles that can clean between the teeth better. In contrast, other dog toothbrushes have rounded or flat bristles which cover more surface area. Below are some of the common patterns you will find in bristles of dog toothbrushes:

• Tapered – these bristles are narrow or have pointed tips, which help in reaching the spaces between the dog’s teeth and cleaning them thoroughly. The tapered bristles are sharp and can also eliminate bacteria and debris from a dog’s mouth. But, this sharpness can also trigger inflammation in the gums or cavities of the dog or make it worse.

• Wavy – here the pattern is curved or undulating shape which helps in making more friction and agitation to eliminate the tartar and plaque from the dog’s teeth. The curved design of these bristles also massages the gums and stimulates the blood flow but, are rough or hard on dogs with sensitive enamel or gums.

• Crisscross – bristles have crossed or angled shape that helps cover more surface area to clean a dog’s teeth efficiently. Also, the crisscross bristles help lift the tartar and plaque from the dog’s teeth. But, these bristles are bulky or confusing for dogs with narrow or small mouths.

• Flat – these bristles will have a uniform and level shape. Flat bristles are helpful to spread the toothpaste evenly on the dog’s teeth. However, they cannot access spaces between dog’s teeth and get rid of stubborn tartar and plaque.

• Interdental – are thin and flexible shape bristles. These bristles can clean dog’s teeth properly by accessing the spaces between them. In addition, they can remove the food and bacteria as well but, are too fragile, especially for dogs who are aggressive or prone to chewing behaviour.

• Multilevel – these bristles have different lengths and heights. They are helpful in cleaning different areas of a dog’s mouth and teeth. The tartar and plaque that build up in different areas of the teeth and mouth are easily cleaned but, the structure of these bristles is often confusing for dogs, especially the ones who have narrow or small mouths.

#5. Brush head size and shape

The brush head of the toothbrush and its shape should match your furry friend’s mouth and teeth for proper cleaning. The brush head that is big in size or too small will not clean the tartar and plaque properly. Small size brush heads will not reach all areas and big-size brush heads will cause injury and discomfort to the dog.

Normally, the shapes of dog toothbrushes are angled or curved for better access to teeth and molars. But, some toothbrushes may have flat brushes or straight brush heads which clean the front incisors and teeth better.

#6. Handle length and type

The length of the toothbrush should be long enough to reach different areas within the dog’s mouth. If it is short, it will compromise the cleaning and the unaccessed areas will remain dirty which could cause infection or other dental problems for the dog.

Also, the length of the handle of the brush should be long enough to reach areas without straining the arm or wrist. Many dog toothbrushes have ergonomic or non-slip handles that prevent the toothbrush from slipping out of the hands or of the dog’s mouth, while others have simple or plain handles that are lightweight.

#7. Features and cleaning mode

There are many dog toothbrushes which contain different cleaning modes and features that improve the brushing experience and effectiveness. For example, some dog toothbrushes have vibrations or sonic modes that create more friction and agitation to eliminate tartar and plaque. Whereas, other toothbrushes simply have gentle or massage modes in them.

Further, some of these dog toothbrushes also have a timer which helps in brushing the dog’s teeth for the recommended time duration. The pressure sensor in these brushes alerts you if you are brushing too hard and additional brush heads help in switching between different types of sizes or bristles.

#8. Battery life and charging method

The ultrasonic or electric dog toothbrush operates on power and improves the brushing experience for the owner. Some of these electric dog brushes have a vibration in these toothbrushes making more agitation to eliminate the tartar and plaque. Others have simple modes that stimulate the blood flow and relieve dogs’ gums.

These dog toothbrushes run on power and need to be charged regularly. Hence, it’s crucial for you to look for a dog toothbrush that has a nice battery that will last long. Also, as per your convenience, you need to make sure that you pick an electric dog toothbrush that has a USB charging method or wireless mechanism of charging.

Factors affecting the cost of dog toothbrush

Different types of dog toothbrushes have different costs and based on your budget, you need to pick the best dog toothbrush that matches your preferred prices. Many factors affect the prices of dog toothbrushes. Let’s analyse each of them:

• Size and design of the dog toothbrush

The big size or small size of the dog toothbrush doesn’t affect the cost that much. But, the material used in making big or small sizes does. Small dog toothbrushes will likely cost less because the material and labour used in these dog toothbrushes will be less. Larger toothbrushes will need more material and hence, slightly high price.

Further, the design should have a curved or angled handle design for accessing the back teeth of the dog without any issues. This prospect makes it slightly costlier than other dog toothbrushes. Also, some of the dog toothbrushes have a design to lure customers, for example, dual heads, sonic modes, or additional attachments or dispensers. These aspects usually contribute to higher prices of the dog toothbrush.

• Type and material of the dog toothbrush

The type of dog toothbrush will influence the prices because some toothbrushes are manual, electric, or, ultrasonic. The high-quality material used in these dog toothbrushes will elevate the prices. This is because they are made durable and the bristles of these toothbrushes will shed less. Also, there is less harbouring of bacteria on these dog toothbrushes.

Now, the soft material dog toothbrushes will have higher prices because they are comfortable and effectively get rid of plaque and tartar. Also, it is safe and comfortable compared to dog toothbrushes made of metal or sharp material. Thus, metal material toothbrushes are available cheaper compared to soft ones.

• Features of dog toothbrush

Dog toothbrushes come with different features such as double-sided, battery-operated toothbrushes, and different cleaning modes. These features influence the prices of dog toothbrushes. Also, the colour was added to increase the visual appeal of the toothbrush.

The price of the toothbrush increases with more features because it directly impacts the production cost. The material used in adding different features or functionalities elevates the prices for the manufacturers and it reflects in the final price as well.

• Brand reputation, demand, and supply

The brand of dog toothbrush along with the demand and supply of dog toothbrushes in the market will hugely impact the prices. A brand with a high reputation will charge more for the toothbrush they make because of the high-quality material they use and their loyal customer base.

Further, the demand and supply of dog toothbrushes will affect the prices as dog owners will look for top-quality toothbrushes and if the supply is low for that specific brand, the prices will soar. However, this doesn’t mean you cannot buy a dog toothbrush from a lesser-known brand. You may have to put in some extra effort to fetch the details about its quality but, there are chances of the product turning out to be just fine.

Types of Dog Toothbrushes

There are ample dog toothbrushes available in the market. Different types of toothbrushes include a variety of features and based on the requirements and dog’s preferences, you can pick the one that fits right for brushing your furry friend’s teeth.

#1. Manual dog toothbrushes

These types of dog toothbrushes are similar to normal toothbrushes which you use for yourself. The only difference is that the one you will get for the dog will have a longer handle, a softer bristle, and a smaller head to fit in the dog’s mouth without damaging their teeth or gums.

Benefits of using manual dog toothbrushes

• Less costly, and easily available
• Available in different bristles, styles, and heads to suit different requirements and preferences
• Dog owners have more control over the movement of the brushes, and if used effectively, they can remove plaque and tartar properly.

Drawbacks of using manual dog toothbrushes

• Dog owners need to reach inside the dog’s mouth and move the brush in a circular motion themselves, the pressure exerted might not be suitable and some dogs may not even tolerate the movement.
• Manual dog toothbrushes will not be able to reach hard-to-clean areas of the dog’s mouth like the back side of the area and the molars.
• Dogs are always susceptible to injuries as these dog toothbrushes are hard on the gums, especially if the owner is not careful while applying the pressure.

#2. Electric dog toothbrushes

These are battery-operated dog toothbrushes which vibrate and rotate to clean the tartar and plaque that is present in excessive amounts. The electric toothbrush creates friction to get rid of the plaque and tartar buildup. In comparison to simple dog toothbrushes, these toothbrushes can provide better cleaning of a dog’s teeth.

Benefits of using an electric dog toothbrush

• Effective in cleaning hard-to-clean areas of the dog’s mouth such as molars and the back of their mouth
• The electric dog toothbrush is fast and easy for dog owners to use as they don’t have to exert force thanks to battery operated mechanism. The vibrations do the job and clean up the tartar and plaque.
• If there are any bacteria and odours in a dog’s mouth, the electric dog brush will get rid of it and improve the dog’s breath.
• Less risk of injuries to the dog also, cost-efficient as dog owners don’t need to go to the vet for teeth cleaning.

Drawbacks of using an electric dog toothbrush

• The cost of these toothbrushes is high and, less available compared to manual ones.
• Not suitable for all dogs, especially the ones who are sensitive to loud noises or vibrations.

Additional dog toothbrush types

We observed two main dog toothbrush types but, there are plenty of other options for dog owners to consider. Below are some of the additional dog toothbrush types that you can consider for your furry friend:

• Soft dog bristle toothbrushes

These dog toothbrushes are regular ones but, with soft bristles. The handle of a soft dog bristle toothbrush is long to make sure that it can be used on different dog breeds. Soft dog bristles are normally suitable for dogs who are more cooperative and used to the brushing experience. The tartar and plaque are cleaned from the dog’s teeth and gums.

• Silicone finger toothbrushes

Silicone finger toothbrushes are small in size and easily usable. They are more suitable for puppies, small dogs, and dogs who are sensitive or nervous to the brushing experience. These dog toothbrushes can massage the dog’s gums and teeth, however, might not be able to reach back teeth.

• Single-sided dog toothbrushes

These are normal dog toothbrushes that have long handles but, bristles on a single side. You can use single-sided dog toothbrushes for your dog if they are cooperative and have medium-sized mouths. However, it might not reach some of the inner areas of the dog’s mouth.

• Double-sided dog toothbrushes

Double-sided dog toothbrushes have bristles on both sides, and there is a long handle for dog owners to use this toothbrush properly. The double side bristles in this dog toothbrush make it easy for dog owners to use this toothbrush effectively even if their dog is aggressive, resistant, or non-cooperative. One stroke of this dog toothbrush will clean both the inner and outer sides of the teeth.

• Three-sided dog toothbrushes

In this dog toothbrush, you will find a triangular head which has bristles on three sides. Similar to double-sided dog toothbrushes three-sided dog toothbrushes are suitable for dogs who resist brushing or are impatient. In a single stroke, you can access all the areas of the dog’s teeth and clean them.

• Fabric finger toothbrush

Dogs who are allergic to different materials such as silicone or rubber benefit from fabric finger toothbrushes. You can use this dog toothbrush for puppies, small dogs and dogs that are sensitive to brushing. Massaging a dog’s gums is easy using this rough texture fabric finger toothbrush. However, these dog toothbrushes are not hygienic like other toothbrushes.

• Chewable dog toothbrushes

If you prefer not to use a dog toothbrush or your dog resents the toothbrush then, you can use the Chewable dog toothbrushes for your furry friend. These are good for dogs who are difficult to brush. But, these chewable brushes are not as effective as the other dog toothbrush.

Tips on Using a Dog Toothbrush

You saw different types of dog toothbrushes that you can use for your furry friend. Each type is useful to clean your furry friend’s teeth. You have to identify the best dog toothbrush and use it properly to attain effective results. To obtain proper results, below are some useful tips for using dog toothbrushes effectively:

#1. Pick the proper type

You need to analyse the size of your furry friend’s mouth and see which of the dog toothbrushes will be suitable for use. Also, consider factors like temperament, and dental health because you don’t want to hurt your dog in the process of brushing. You can also consult your vet before using any dog toothbrush to ensure that your furry friend can handle them.

#2. Select a dog-friendly toothpaste

Human toothpaste contains substances that are toxic for dogs. It has xylitol, alcohol, or fluoride in the mix, which is harmful. You must select a dog-friendly toothpaste to avoid any issues. Toothpaste made for dogs is made using dog-friendly ingredients such as poultry or peanut butter. If not commercial, you can try and make dog toothpaste yourself using coconut oil, parsley, or baking soda.

#3. Initiate brushing at an early age

Young pups are likely to follow the instructions better and will easily adjust and get used to the brushing experience. Whereas, adult and old age dogs will take more time to adjust to dog toothbrushes. Some dogs might even resent it because of the bristles and anxiety issues.

Start using the dog toothbrush at the age of 8 weeks. This will not only make the dog get accustomed to the brushing experience but, also improve their dental health.

Manual toothbrush

If you are planning to use the manual dog toothbrush then, here are some basic instructions that you need to follow:

• Choose a quiet and comfortable place and provide some rewards to your dogs. This will make sure that they remain in a positive state and will follow your cues properly.
• Take a small amount of toothpaste and apply it on the toothbrush, gently lift your furry friend’s lips and begin to brush in the outer part of their teeth.
• Gradually move the brush in a circular motion and use the brush on the inner side, make sure you don’t hurt your dog’s gums.

Fingertip dog toothbrush

The fingertip dog toothbrush is wearable on the fingers and you can simply wear it on the finger and rub it on the dog’s teeth and gums after applying the toothpaste.

• Rub the fingertip dog toothbrush on the outer and inner sides of the dog’s mouth. Make sure you massage gently and avoid injury to the tongue or gums of the dog.
• Continue rubbing the dog’s toothbrush for a couple of minutes if the dog is not resisting or showing any signs of discomfort.

Angled or curved dog toothbrush

• Gently lift your furry friend’s lips and make sure the angled dog toothbrush is held at a 45-degree angle to the dog’s teeth.
• After adjusting the angle, start to brush the teeth’s outer surface in a back-and-forth motion. Once you are done with the outer surface, begin to brush the inner surfaces of the dog’s teeth.

Double-ended dog toothbrush

• Hold this dog toothbrush parallel to the dog’s teeth and slowly lift the dog’s lips. Start brushing the outer and inner surfaces of their teeth at the same time.
• The double-sided bristle will clean the teeth at the same time so, adjust the toothbrush head position accordingly.
• Use the brush for two minutes and if there is no aggression or resistance from the dog, continue brushing. You can keep switching the sides while cleaning different areas of the dog’s mouth.

These are some instructions for using different types of dog toothbrushes. Applying a dog toothpaste is a common step and so is cleaning the dog’s mouth and rinsing the toothbrush after each brushing.

#4. Make it a pleasant experience

You should keep providing rewards to your dog and acknowledge their positive behaviour. It may seem contrary but, in the initial stages, this will be the right choice. Once your dog is used to the brushing experience, you can stop providing them with food treats. Still, I recommend you use toys to maintain a rewarding experience to avoid any resentment from their side.

#5. Follow instructions and use the proper technique

The main intent behind using the dog toothbrush is to improve a dog’s dental and overall oral health. So, make sure you develop a routine with proper technique for cleaning your furry friend’s teeth. This means, focusing properly on the outer surfaces of the teeth and the back teeth and molars where tartar and plaque build-up is.

If the dog is not resisting cleaning on the inner surface, you should clean it but, make sure the movement is slow. Fast or hard brushing will hurt dogs and it might get scary for them.

Train Dog for Brushing

In the previous section, you saw different tips and instructions for using dog toothbrushes. But, what if your dog is new to this experience? This is a legitimate concern, especially for the new dog owners. So, in this section, you will find some ways to train your dog for the brushing experience.

#1. Introduce your dog with a toothbrush

It is recommended that you train the dog at an early age. Puppies are active and are more receptive. So, introduce them to the toothbrush as soon as possible. Show them the toothbrush and place it near the place where they spend most of their time. This will provide them with assurance and they will not get anxious.

#2. Allow them to sniff the toothbrush

The dog will sniff the toothbrush and also lick it or put it in their mouth. Allow them to do so. The sniffing, or licking will allow them to get a sense of the toothbrush and if the scent of the toothbrush is pleasant then, they are likely to acknowledge the presence of the toothbrush. If their behaviour remains good, provide them with a small treat or give them a toy to play with.

#3. Make them comfortable with the toothpaste

Before using the dog toothbrush, it is important to make sure that your furry friend is comfortable with the taste of the toothpaste that you are planning on using. Instead of applying the paste on their teeth with your fingers or toothbrush, take some out at your fingertips.

Allow the dog to lick the toothpaste. Observe their reaction. If they lick the paste again it suggests that they like the flavour. Make sure the dog likes the flavour of the toothpaste. Once, you feel the dog is comfortable with the flavour of the toothpaste, you can apply it on their teeth and gums.

#4. Practice applying paste without using a toothbrush

Use your fingers to apply the paste to your dog’s teeth and gums. Slowly lift their lifts and use the paste. Keep rubbing the teeth and gums with your fingers for a few seconds and then stop the movement. Observe your furry friend’s reaction, if they are not exhibiting signs of discomfort or resistance, you can rub the paste again for some time.

Once your furry friend is used to this drill, you can increase the time. This will make sure they stay in one position for a longer duration and when you use the actual toothbrush, there will be no issues of movement hence, no risk of injuries.

#5. Initiate use of toothbrush

When your furry friend is staying in one place while you apply toothpaste with your fingers, it’s time to use the actual toothbrush. Some dogs will feel the bristles and react aggressively, especially if they have sensitive gums or the bristles are hard on the gums.

Regardless, it is important to use a dog toothbrush with soft bristles and use it gently on dogs’ teeth and gums. In the beginning stages, you need to make sure that you keep brushing time minimal. Once, your furry friend is comfortable with regular brushing, you can increase the time daily.

Perks of Using a Dog Toothbrush

If you manage to use a dog toothbrush on your furry friend with the proper technique, there are some significant benefits that you can leverage for your furry friend and yourself. Below are some of the prominent perks of using a dog toothbrush:

#1. Prevents dental diseases

Dental issues in dogs are common and it affects 80% of the dogs by the age of three. The main cause behind different dental issues like gingivitis, periodontal disease, cavities, and infections is the accumulation of tartar and plaque. Dogs suffer from inflammation, pain, tooth loss, and other dental problems.

Some of the issues if not dealt with on time, could lead to tooth loss, abscesses, bone loss, or cause damage to different organs in dogs. Using a dog toothbrush removes the plaque and tartar from their teeth and stops these dental diseases from progressing.

#2. Reduces tartar and plaque build-up

Tartar is a hard substance that resides on a dog’s teeth when plaque mineralises and calcifies on the dog’s teeth. Plaque is sticky and is usually formed on a dog’s teeth because of saliva and food particles. The build-up triggers various dental issues and is also responsible for discolouration, and bad breath in dogs.

Both tartar and plaque make the dog’s teeth appear yellow or brown and cause bad breath or halitosis. This can inflame a dog’s gums, cause irritation, and form small spaces where bacteria can manifest and multiply. A dog toothbrush will break up the tartar making the dog’s teeth shiner.

#3. Makes dog confident

Dogs who have healthy and clean teeth feel confident and comfortable. This keeps them happy and they will not feel anxious while going out or hesitate in eating different food items as well. In addition, the regular brushing session will help improve bonding and the dog will remain excited for the next brushing session if you are using the dog toothbrush wisely.

Their mood will remain good which will keep them joyous. So, if you keep using the toothbrush properly and improve dental health, they will remain healthy.

#4. Reduces veterinary cost

Once a dog has manifested some serious dental problem, the vet bills pile up for the dog owners. This is mainly because the majority of dental treatments are expensive and require anaesthesia and surgery. Treating different dental problems includes cleaning, scaling, polishing, extraction, root canal, or crown placement.

All of these procedures are intrusive and risky for dogs, especially if they are sick or of old age. Also, to avoid dental issues dog owners think of getting their furry friend’s teeth cleaned regularly but, after some time it seems costly. Hence, a dog toothbrush is the best bet to avoid constant vet visits and cut expenses.

Drawbacks of using a dog toothbrush

Now, even if you are careful with the usage of dog toothbrushes, there are certain drawbacks. Below are some of the potential drawbacks of using a dog toothbrush:

• Stressful experience for some dogs

Not all dogs will like or accept brushing, especially if they are not used to any brushing experience previously. Some dogs will resent the use of a dog toothbrush because of the pain it triggers, the sensitivity of gums, or a dental problem. So, these types of dogs will pose difficulty for dog owners and it becomes crucial for them to train them to get used to the brushing experience.

Training the dog is important because if you remain persistent or force the use of a toothbrush on your furry friend, they might bite your hand, scratch it, or run away from you. Hence, as a responsible dog owner, you need to make sure that you don’t enforce the use of the dog toothbrush on your dog.

• Time-consuming

As much as dog owners prefer maintaining their furry friend’s dental health, it is time-consuming. So, dog owners who have a busy schedule, often neglect many factors before using the dog toothbrush on their furry friend. For example, they don’t pick a proper location, pick a proper dog toothbrush, or toothpaste, or use effective techniques.

This compromises a dog’s dental health and the negligence can often lead to unwanted dental issues. Thus, if you have a busy schedule then you need to make sure you prepare a proper schedule and provide enough time to deliver the best brushing experience for your furry friend.

• Risk of allergies or injuries

While using a dog toothbrush there is always a potential risk of allergy or injuries for dogs. The risk factor is high for dogs who already have sensitive gums, or of old age. The material of toothbrushes can trigger allergies in dogs and cause redness, itching, irritation, or swelling in their mouth or gums.

The bristles of toothbrushes may cause injury issues, especially if the dog owner is not confident of using the dog toothbrush. The slightest slip in the movement can lead to injury to the gums or worse damage to the tooth.

Things to Avoid While Using a Dog Toothbrush

To avoid the drawbacks and make sure that the brushing experience for your furry friend remains proper, there are certain things you must avoid while using the dog toothbrush. Let’s analyse each prospect in detail:

#1. Avoid exerting too much pressure

When using the dog toothbrush, it is important for you, to maintain gentle pressure. Applying too much pressure can cause discomfort to the dogs and hurt their tooth and gums. Also, if your furry friend has sensitive gums it could instantly cause bleeding. In addition, the enamel of the teeth could also get damaged. Now, if the additional pressure causes enamel erosion, it could easily expose the dentin which is the soft layer underneath making the dog’s teeth vulnerable to cavities.

Further, excessive scrubbing of the dog toothbrush can also minimise the effect of the toothpaste. This happens because the majority of the dog toothpastes are made to work with gentle pressure and in a circular motion. Excessive pressure of dog toothbrush wipes of the paste. It will not reach the areas where plaque and bacteria have accumulated. So, instead of improving a dog’s dental condition, unintentionally you’ll end up compromising it.

#2. Avoid using human toothpaste

Under no circ*mstances you are to use human toothpaste while brushing your furry friend’s teeth. There are ingredients present in these toothpastes which can harm dogs. You will find substances like xylitol, and fluoride in human toothpaste and both can prove to be fatal for dogs.

Flouride is the mineral which helps in stopping tooth decay in humans but, it causes issues such as kidney damage or gastrointestinal problems in dogs. Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that is added to add flavour to the human paste but, it is deadly for our furry friends. It can instantly elevate insulin levels in dogs which can cause liver failure, seizures, and possibly death. So, it’s important to consider this prospect and make sure that you are using dog toothpaste that is formulated to improve the canine’s health.

#3. Don’t neglect back and side teeth

As a responsible dog owner, you must not neglect the back and side teeth of your furry friend. The reason is simple, these areas are also prone to plaque and tartar buildup. If you are not cleaning the back and side teeth of your dog then they are likely to develop dental disease and other health issues because of tartar accumulation which leads to inflammation and infection issues.

For instance, consider gingivitis. This dental disease is severe, especially if left untreated. It affects deeper structures of the mouth, such as ligaments and bones which provide support to teeth. This escalation is referred to as periodontitis. Your furry friend might lose teeth, and face damage to other organs like the heart and kidneys. So, avoid ignoring the back and side teeth of your furry friend.

#4. Avoid using a brush that is too hard, too big, or too small

The dog toothbrush you use for your dog should be of proper size and not too hard for your dog’s teeth and gums. If the dog’s toothbrush is hard, it could damage the dog’s gums and teeth. There is always a risk of bleeding, pain, or enamel erosion. A big-sized toothbrush will make it hard for you to navigate different areas and it might be uncomfortable for dogs as well.

In addition, you must also avoid using a small dog toothbrush as it will not clean teeth surfaces effectively, especially the side and back teeth. At times, if the material of these small dog toothbrushes is not durable, or you lose control, it could fall into the dog’s mouth as well. Hence, it’s crucial to use a dog toothbrush that is of proper size.

#5. Do not skip brushing sessions

Many dog owners make the mistake of skipping brushing sessions. While there are no major issues of skipping a couple of sessions, irregularity in brushing could lead to dental issues or worse make dogs resent brushing. Not brushing the dog’s teeth regularly will accumulate lots of plaque and tartar. The dog is likely to suffer from gum disease and tooth decay.

If the gum disease is not dealt with, it will cause infection, inflammation, pain and potentially tooth loss. In addition, irregular brushing will make the dog anxious because of the uncertainty. They might lose interest in the brushing exercise and it will be tough to make them comply. Hence, it’s important you regularly clean your furry friend’s teeth to avoid these prospects.

#6. Avoid not cleaning the dog’s toothbrush

Cleaning your furry friend’s toothbrush is important to minimise the risk of infection and prevent the growth of bacteria and mould which could cause health issues for the dog. Dog owners must avoid ignoring the hygiene prospect and clean the dog’s toothbrush regularly. Here are some tips to clean the dog toothbrush:

• Rinse the toothbrush after cleaning the dog’s teeth with warm water. This will remain the dirt and paste left over on the bristles of the toothbrush. If you notice any small particles or leftovers, use a toothpick to remove them.
• Use a natural disinfectant like vinegar to kill the germs present on the bristles on a regular basis to disinfect the toothbrush. Mix the vinegar in water and soak the toothbrush in the solution. Keep it in the solution for about 20-30 minutes. You will see the germs are eliminated and rinsing the toothbrush afterwards will make it clean for the next brushing session.

These are some of the tips to ensure the dog brush remains clean. However, you should also, not ignore replacing the toothbrush. If needed you must immediately change it, especially if you observe any signs of wear and tear in the brush. Also, if the bristles are shedding, losing colour, or frayed, you need to replace them with a new one.

#7. Avoid storing dog toothbrushes in a drawer or closed container

You must avoid keeping dog toothbrushes in your drawer or a closed container. This is mainly because closed containers or drawers will create a moist environment which could manifest different microorganisms. These microorganisms could get stuck on the bristles of the dog toothbrush if not cleaned properly and used by you, your dog is likely to face health issues.

So, make sure you are placing the toothbrush in an open container or holder. This will minimise the risk of contamination and keep your furry friend’s toothbrush clean.

FAQs for Best Dog Toothbrush

Final Remarks on the Best Dog Toothbrush UK

I hope the article helped you find the best dog toothbrush UK for your furry friend. Brushing your dog’s teeth is crucial so, you can pick the best dog toothbrush from the list to improve the dental and overall oral health of the dog. A suitable pick will make sure that the brushing experience remains positive for both you and your furry friend.

The product list in the article includes some of the best dog toothbrushes UK. Our team at Wewantdogs has analysed various prospects and reviewed several customer feedbacks before including the product in the list. So, based on your preference, you will find the perfect choice for your furry friend.

However, before finalising the purchase make sure you have a chat with your vet just to ensure that the dog toothbrush you are planning on buying will help improve your furry friend’s dental health. Also, try and organise a schedule for brushing to get the best results.