TheRoundup is reader supported. We may earn a small commission when you make a purchase via links on this site, at no cost to you.
All products are personally reviewed and tested in accordance with our Review Methodology.
From gnawing on the occasional stick or garbage to chomping on kibble and treats, your dog's teeth can take quite a beating. So, regular brushing is vital to maintaining good oral health for our canine companions.
As a seasoned eco-friendly writer and dog lover, with the help of my beloved dog Millie, I've spent countless hours researching the best organic dog toothpaste of 2024.
Finding the best toothpaste for Millie is crucial to healthier gums and brighter doggy smiles. But it's also vital to keep her mouth free from any nasty chemicals that may come with more traditional options.
But what if an organic option is not available? Is natural just as good?
Read on and I'll guide you through all the best dog toothpaste options...
Or at least the ones she endures with minimal fuss!
✔ USDA-Certified
✔ Naturally Fights Plaque and Prevents Cavities
✔ Made in the USA
This USDA-Certifed dog toothpaste is proudly made in the USA and brimming with goodness. The blend of sweet potato and coconut oil fights plaque and prevents cavities.
Free from harmful ingredients like xylitol, preservatives, dyes, pesticides, GMOs, gluten, fluoride, and artificial flavors, this toothpaste is a safe choice.
Millie loves the taste (she has a sweet spot for sweet potatoes), and the refreshing hint of mint leaves her breath smelling fresh and delightful.
One important thing to note is that this toothpaste is exclusively intended for dogs and unsafe for cats.
✔ Approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC)
✔ Human-Grade Ingredients
✔ Help Prevent Gingivitis
Next on the list is Petsmile, the VOHC-approved toothpaste for pets trusted by Veterinary Dentists worldwide.
With its unique formula containing Calprox, Petsmile is designed to promote white teeth, healthy gums, and fresh breath in your furry companions.
Clinically proven to inhibit plaque, tartar, and gingivitis, Petsmile's Calprox gently dissolves the protein pellicle (the thin bio-film that attracts plaque, bacteria, and stains), leaving your pet's teeth cleaner and brighter. Plus, it improves gum health, ensuring a beautiful and healthy doggy smile.
I was intrigued by this toothpaste because Petsmile claims that no brushing is required. Instead, they recommended you apply it to your pet's teeth and let their tongue do the rest.
This is a nice gimmick and great if your dog doesn't like having its teeth brushed. However, I would still recommend using a toothbrush at least once a week to give those pearly whites a good scrub.
Millie tried the Rotisserie Chicken flavor and happily licked her teeth until they were squeaky clean. London Broil and Say Cheese options are also available if your dog prefers a different taste.
✔ Lovely Fresh Breath
✔ Small Brush Perfect for Puppies
✔ Millie Loved the Peanut Butter Taste
Get your puppy started young and experience soothing and effective care with this puppy dental kit.
Designed to calm and soothe irritated gums during teething, it also cleanses and freshens breath (and can reduce plaque and tartar buildup too).
Millie is way past the teething stage, so I can't speak for the soothing properties (although it does get excellent reviews online). However, I can confirm 100% that this toothpaste's peanut butter flavor is super tasty. Millie goes mad for it!
This comprehensive kit helps reduce destructive chewing while brightening and whitening your puppy's teeth.
The triple-headed dog toothbrush efficiently cleans from every angle, ensuring thorough oral care for your pet.
A perfect product for first-timers!
✔ Safe for Dogs and Cats
✔ Powerful Enzymatic Action
✔ Vet Recommended
If you're looking for the best enzymatic dog toothpaste (that can also be used on cats), look no further!
This powerhouse of a toothpaste reduces plaque and tartar, freshens breath, and ensures a clean mouth (everything you'd expect from the #1 dental brand recommended by US veterinary professionals).
Virbac takes customer satisfaction very seriously. If you have any comments or questions, you can reach out at 1-844-484-7222.
Millie doesn't mind the poultry flavor, but it wasn't her favorite of all the brands we tested. I'll try her out with the Beef or Vanilla Mint when I update this article. Get your details on our mailing list to be notified when this article is updated.
✔ Safe for Dogs and Cats
✔ Perfect for Fussy Pets
✔ Made in the USA
Experience instant freshness for your pet's breath with this fast-acting gel toothpaste. It effectively combats bad breath in dogs and cats, giving them long-lasting freshness throughout the day.
Not only does it freshen breath, but it also promotes excellent mouth health by cleaning your dog's gums and teeth. This advanced dog tartar remover works wonders for cats, too (and even surpasses the effectiveness of some enzymatic toothpaste).
This toothpaste excels if your dog is fussy with flavors or smells. Say goodbye to stinky beef and liver-flavored toothpastes that mask bad breath. The Oxyfresh dog toothpaste is flavor-free, ensuring a pleasant experience for you and your furry friend.
Millie prefers a meaty taste to her toothpaste. But this will be perfect for you if you've got a picky pooch (or fussy feline).
There are a few bonus products I love to use to help boost the cleaning power of Millie's toothpaste:
To cover all bases (differing needs, ages, budgets, etc.) I've recommended organic and non-organic toothpaste in this article.
Organic toothpaste uses only organic ingredients and is certified by a recognizable third party. They're often more expensive than non-organic options and can be challenging to source.
Non-organic toothpaste is less regulated but can still contain natural (and even organic) ingredients. It's just not officially certified.
When choosing non-organic recommendations, I carefully researched all the ingredients to ensure they were as natural as possible (and to help you avoid greenwashing).
You wouldn't mindlessly grab the first toothpaste you see on the shelf for yourself, right?
The same should go for your fur baby.
When selecting a dog toothpaste, consider the following.
When looking for products for your pup, it's essential to prioritize natural ingredients that are non-toxic and safe for dogs. Say no to artificial flavors, colors, and chemicals.
By opting for natural options, you can ensure your furry friend gets the care they deserve while avoiding any potential harm that may come with artificial additives.
Choose wisely and keep your furry companion happy and healthy!
Finding a flavor your dog enjoys will make the whole process more manageable.
Millie is a big fan of peanut butter or liver-flavored toothpaste.
Does your existing dog toothpaste effectively tackle plaque buildup and promote fresher dog breath?
If not, it's back to the drawing board for a better solution!
Look for certifications such as the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of approval and the USDA Organic label.
These ensure that the toothpaste is effective and safe for your best furry friend.
I believe in walking the talk here. So, I rolled up my sleeves, gathered a couple of willing participants (Millie and her cousin, Dexter), and got brushing.
When compiling the list of recommendations, I considered factors such as ease of use, dog's reaction, breath freshness, and visible results over time.
Periodontal disease is one of domestic dogs' most common health issues.
Poor dental hygiene can lead to infection, inflammation, and pain in your pet's mouth.
This can cause them to be less interested in their food, leading to weight loss if left unchecked.
Additionally, bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body, causing systemic infections.
So, it's imperative to provide your dog with regular dental treatments and use toothpaste that will help keep their teeth healthy and clean.
Using a specialized natural toothpaste designed for dogs comes with several benefits:
Brushing your dog's teeth may seem daunting, but it can become a simple and stress-free routine with the proper technique.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to properly brush your dog's teeth:
When it comes to choosing a toothbrush for your dog, there are a few options available.
Traditional dog toothbrushes feature soft bristles and a long handle, making reaching all areas of your dog's mouth easier.
Another popular option is a finger brush, which fits over your finger and allows for more precise control.
Both options can be effective, so choose the one your dog is most comfortable with.
Regular brushing is vital for maintaining your dog's dental health.
Aim to brush your dog's teeth at least two to three times a week (although once a day would be ideal).
Consistency is vital in preventing plaque and tartar buildup and maintaining fresh breath.
By incorporating regular brushing into your dog's routine, you can help ensure their teeth and gums stay healthy.
If you want complete control over what goes into your dog's toothpaste, you might want to make your own.
The ingredients for homemade dog toothpaste are easy to find and usually involve items you already have in the kitchen (such as baking soda, coconut oil, and peppermint oil).
If you're looking for DIY inspiration, check out this video from Veterinary Secrets.
We all want what's best for furry friends, so why stop at shiny, healthy teeth?
Here are a few more ways to spoil your dog:
In an ideal world, you should brush your dog's teeth daily. However, if you don't have the time (or your dog is not keen), aim for at least two or three times a week).
No, never use human toothpaste on dogs. It contains ingredients like fluoride and xylitol that can be toxic to dogs if ingested. Also, human toothpaste is not formulated to be swallowed, whereas dog toothpaste is safe for dogs to swallow.
Enzymatic dog toothpaste is specially formulated to break down plaque and tartar buildup. The enzymes in these toothpastes break down the bacteria that cause plaque, leading to improved oral hygiene.
Dog breath is just one of those things that comes with being a dog. Regular cleaning does the trick to neutralize those bacteria-causing odors. But if you catch a whiff of something funky or unusually foul (and it won't go away), it's time to book an appointment with your trusted veterinarian to check it out.
Yes, most dog toothpaste does expire. Look for an expiration date on the tube and discard any expired product. Also, some brands of enzymatic toothpaste suggest storing them in a cool place, such as the refrigerator, to keep them fresh and effective.
Yes, size can impact the health of your pup's teeth. Smaller dog breeds often experience more issues (such as overcrowding and tooth decay) due to their smaller mouths and shorter snouts.
Many dog owners consider enzymatic toothpaste the best for removing plaque and tartar.
Dog toothpaste should not contain any fluoride, as this can be toxic to dogs. Also, avoid artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which can be extremely dangerous for your pup. Lastly, avoid anything with alcohol or harsh chemicals.
According to PetMD, "tea tree oil is toxic, to both humans and pets, if taken orally."
Yes, green tea extract is generally considered safe for pet toothpaste use. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help promote healthy gums and teeth.
Proper dental care is essential for maintaining your four-legged friend's overall health and well-being.
By choosing natural products, regularly brushing your dog's teeth, and incorporating additional products (such as crunchy chews and water additives), you can help prevent issues and keep your dog's teeth and gums healthy.
Implementing the tips mentioned in this article will help give your pup the gift of good oral health. Taking care of your pet's teeth now will pay dividends in the future!
Always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice and recommendations regarding your dog's dental care needs if you're ever in doubt.
Do you use pet toothpaste? What's your favorite brand? Have you ever made your own all-natural toothpaste? Do you have a secret family recipe for a flavor that dogs like? Drop me a line and let me know.
Our core values mean we always prioritize sustainability over profit. We carefully evaluate and personally test every product to ensure they meet our high standards. All products recommended in this article were tested in accordance with our Review Methodology.
TheRoundup.org - As Seen On
