You cannot use human toothpaste to brush your dog’s teeth, and human toothpaste contains ingredients that are harmful to dogs.
In general, toothpaste for dogs should be dog toothpaste, and in other words, it should have an element that is safe for dogs.
There are many reasons why human toothpaste and dog toothpaste are not precisely the same.
4 Reasons Dog cannot use Human Toothpaste
- Xylitol
- Fluoride
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- Choking in small dog breeds
1) Xylitol
Human toothpaste contains artificial sweeteners and flavoring agents such as xylitol and saccharin, which are highly toxic to dogs.
Even a tiny amount can cause vomiting and diarrhea in a dog, while severe consequences include liver failure and death. [1]
2) Fluoride
Fluoride is a mineral found in human toothpaste that prevents cavities.
Dog teeth have higher fluoride concentrations than humans, so they do not need any more fluoride from toothpaste, and it can poison dogs if they ingest too much fluoride from their toothpaste. [2]
3) Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Human toothpaste has foaming agents like sodium lauryl sulfate, which is also toxic to dogs.
They contain detergents called surfactants that help remove stains and tartar from teeth, but they can also cause diarrhea if swallowed (which happens when your dog licks his lips). [3]
4) Choking in small dog breeds
If you own a small breed dog, such as a Chihuahua or Pomeranian, they may risk choking on human toothpaste, and the minty flavor may cause them to swallow before thoroughly rinsing their mouth.
The Best Herbal/ Plants Extracts Dog toothpastes
- Banana extract toothpaste
- Coconut extract toothpaste
- Papaya Extract toothpaste
- Orange extract toothpaste
- Olive leaf toothpaste
- Peppermint toothpaste
- AloeVera gel toothpaste
1) Banana Extract Toothpaste
The Banana extract toothpaste is completely safe and edible so that you can brush your dog’s teeth without worry.
The toothpaste’s natural ingredients help keep your buddy breathe fresh and teeth clean.
It helps prevent tartar and plaque accumulation, reduces bad breath, and leaves your pet’s teeth and gums clean, strong and healthy. [4]
2) Coconut Extract Toothpaste
Coconut Extract Toothpaste for dogs has specially formulated to help maintain your dog’s oral hygiene.
It is recommended that you brush your dog’s teeth daily to prevent bacteria buildup and plaque formation, which can cause bad breath.
You should pay particular attention to the gum line when brushing your dog’s teeth. [5]
3) Papaya Extract Toothpaste
Papaya extract toothpaste is natural and safe for your dog, as it uses papaya extract to remove plaque buildup on teeth.
Papaya is a fruit with antibacterial properties that prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, and it helps minimize the risk of gum disease and bad breath.
It works in minutes, and the result is clean shiny teeth, mouth and gums! [6]
4) Orange extract toothpaste
The orange extract will help to reduce inflammation from the gums.
If you have a dog chewing on something that has damaged their teeth, the orange extract will help to get rid of the bacteria from the damage and help prevent the bacteria from spreading.
It will remove any food particles stuck between your dog’s teeth or on their chin or tongue that lead to halitosis. [7]
5) Olive leave extract toothpaste
Olive leave extract toothpaste has antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties, which help stop plaque formation and reduce bad breath.
This toothpaste is an excellent option for dogs that don’t like the taste of other toothpaste, and it contains no foaming agents and can swallow by your dog after brushing. [8]
6) Peppermint toothpaste
Peppermint toothpaste is a great way to keep your dog’s teeth clean and fresh; and it helps prevent the growth of plaque and tartar, and its antibacterial helps stop gum inflammation, prevents gingivitis and eliminates bad breath.
This toothpaste is easily digestible and will not cause any harm if swallowed. [9]
7) AloeVera Gel Toothpaste
Aloe Vera gel is excellent toothpaste for dogs. It contains no foaming agents or fluoride.
It’s safe if your dog swallows it, and it is safe for the environment.
It works well to remove plaque, fight bad breath, and heal cuts and scrapes in their mouths. [10]
Safe and Natural Homemade Toothpaste for Dogs
- Formula # 1
- Formula # 2
- How to use
1) Formula # 1
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 1/4 cup water
- Four tablespoons of coconut oil
- Four tablespoons of banana extract (available at most supermarkets)
- To make the toothpaste, mix all the ingredients in a bowl until well combined. The mixture will be thick and gooey. Store the toothpaste in an airtight container in a refrigerator or freezer.
2) Formula # 2
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1/3 cup glycerin
- Two tablespoons of fresh orange juice
- One tablespoon grated orange zest
- Combine all ingredients in a glass bowl and mix thoroughly. The mixture will be thick, so use your hands to work the ingredients together. Store in a tightly sealed plastic container in the refrigerator for three months.
3) How to use it:
Apply a small amount of paste onto a soft toothbrush or finger brush and brush your dog’s teeth for 2-3 minutes at least once each day for best results.
How to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth
- Start Young
- Do it everyday
- Use the right tools
1) Start young
Get her used to having her mouth and teeth handled if you’ve got a new puppy.
Rub her lips gently and look inside her mouth with your fingers.
Put a little peanut butter on your finger and rub it along her gums and teeth as she gets comfortable.
2) Do it every day
Your dog will get used to the routine and be less likely to resist it.
And since regular tooth brushing helps prevent periodontal disease, you’ll keep your pet healthy.
Brush dog teeth for 30 seconds twice a day.
3) Use the right tools
You can use the canine toothpaste specially formulated to fight plaque and tartar buildup in dogs’ mouths.
You can find many types at any pet supply store or veterinarian’s office — even ones that taste like poultry or beef liver!
Use a small extra soft bristles toothbrush specifically made for dogs or a finger brush that fits over the tip of your finger (available at any pet store).
Reward your dog after brushing its teeth!
What Can I Use to Brush My Dogs Teeth?
You can use specific dog formulated toothpaste with natural ingredients like banana, coconut, papaya, orange, olive leave extract, peppermint and AloeVera gel.
Human toothpaste is not safe for dogs.
If you use human toothpaste, your dog might swallow it and have an upset stomach.
You can use either beef or poultry flavored toothpaste.
Use a small extra soft bristles toothbrush made for dogs.
A dog’s teeth should be brushed at least seven times per week to prevent plaque buildup and bad breath.
References
