The 11 Best Dog Toothpastes of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

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Petsmile Professional Pet Toothpaste

The Spruce / Lu Han

Developing a toothbrushing routine with your dog will help to reduce plaque and tartar buildup, freshen their breath, and prevent periodontal disease—the most commonly diagnosed health problem in dogs.

“Having healthy teeth and gums is one of the most important ways to help your dog avoid hidden infection and pain," Sarah Machell, DVM, lead veterinarian with Vetster, told The Spruce Pets.

Unfortunately, brushing your dog's teeth can be a tricky pet hygiene task, even with the best toothbrush. We purchased 18 popular and bestselling dog toothpastes, sending each one to a home with a real dog for testing. Our testers documented their experience brushing their dog's teeth with each product, noting how their dogs responded to flavors, reductions in plaque, and whether their dogs' breath improved.

After four weeks of testing our favorite is Petsmile Professional Pet Toothpaste, which has clinical data backing its effectiveness and comes in a variety of flavors dogs seem to enjoy.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Petsmile Professional Pet Toothpaste

Petsmile Professional Dog Toothpaste

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Use
    5/5
  • Flavor
    3/5
  • Scent
    4/5
  • Effectiveness
    4/5
What We Like
  • The only toothpaste approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC)

  • Reduces tartar and plaque buildup

  • Can be used without a toothbrush

  • Can also be used with cats

  • Vegan and cruelty-free

What We Don't Like
  • More expensive than most dog toothpastes

Petsmile Professional Pet Toothpaste cleans teeth, freshens breath, and is available in three dog-appealing flavors: London Broil, Rotisserie Chicken, and Say Cheese. While dog flavors may not sound too appealing to humans, Petsmile is odorless, thankfully.

The mouth-cleaning paste is made with Calprox, which is Petsmile's proprietary combination of calcium peroxide and minerals. Upon application to a canine's chompers (or a cat's kisser), the formula dissolves the film where unwanted gunk, such as plaque and bacteria, tends to linger in a dog's mouth. The toothpaste contains no animal proteins and is completely free of sulfites, parabens, gluten, BPA, and silica.

Our testing dog used PetSmile Professional Pet Toothpaste weekly for a month, and our volunteer noted noticeably whiter teeth, less buildup along their gum line, and fresher breath.

Petsmile is the only dog toothpaste approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC), which sets standards and reviews data to highlight pet products that are proven to reduce plaque and tartar. VOHC products have been shown to decrease plaque and tartar buildup by 20 percent, thus reducing the likelihood of periodontal and other mouth diseases.

With its high-quality and non-allergenic ingredients, human-grade strength, appealing meaty flavor and professional co-sign, there’s no other toothpaste whose effectiveness has been proven like Petsmile Professional Pet Toothpaste. While not as effective as brushing, Petsmile even works without a toothbrush: Apply the paste directly to your dog's teeth and let their flavor-chasing tongue do a little mild scrubbing.

Ingredients: Calprox, deionized water, glycerin, citric acid, dicalcium phosphate dihydrate, cellulose gum, urea peroxide, carbopol 934P, potassium hydroxide, flavor, sodium benzoate, phosphoric acid, and cetylpyridinium chloride | Size: 2.5, 4.2, 4.5 ounces | Flavors: London broil, rotisserie chicken, say cheese

Best Enzymatic

Virbac CET Enzymatic Toothpaste

Virbac-C.E.T.-Enzymatic-Toothpaste

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Use
    4/5
  • Flavor
    5/5
  • Scent
    5/5
  • Effectiveness
    5/5
What We Like
  • Five flavors to choose from: Poultry, vanilla mint, beef, malt, and seafood

  • Noticeably improved appearance of dog's teeth and gums during testing

  • Sticky consistency of the paste is easy to apply to dog's teeth

  • Can also be used with cats

What We Don't Like
  • We found it difficult to prevent excess toothpaste from coming out of the tube

C.E.T. is the dental care product line from Virbac that includes dental chews and dog toothbrushes, and it stands for Customizable care, Easy to use, and Trusted by veterinarians.

This enzymatic dog toothpaste from Virbac is offered in five flavors—poultry, malt, vanilla mint, beef, and seafood. We tested with the poultry flavor and were pleased to find that it had no detectable scent. All flavors are tan-colored paste, but it will not stain fur or surfaces once the product dissipates. When our tube of Virbac was brand-new we found it difficult to keep extra paste from coming out, so be careful when squeezing.

The formula for Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste uses a dual enzyme approach to target buildup and bacteria in a dog's mouth. Enzymes are proteins that stimulate chemical reactions when they interact with organic matter, breaking down common stink- and plaque-causing compounds. For best results, enzymatic dog toothpaste requires a toothbrush or finger brush for application, which helps to stimulate the enzymatic activity that attacks plaque and tartar. With its lack of foaming agents and fluoride, it is an exceptionally safe product, meaning your dog can eat it without getting sick.

“It has the added benefit of ongoing action after the brushing has been completed,” Dr. Machell said.

Ingredients: Sorbitol, dicalcium phosphate anhydrous, purified water, hydrated silica, glycerin, dextrose, xanthan gum, vanillin, titanium dioxide, sodium benzoate, methyl salicylate, potassium thiocyanate, glucose oxidase, lactoperoxidase | Size: 2.5 ounces | Flavors: Poultry, beef, malt, seafood, vanilla mint

Virbac CET Enzymatic Toothpaste

The Spruce / Katie Tuttle

Best Kit

Vet's Best Dog Toothbrush & Toothpaste Kit

Vet's Best Dog Toothbrush & Toothpaste Kit

Amazon

What We Like
  • Made without artificial chemicals or flavors

  • Formulated and approved by veterinarians in the United States

  • Provides care for teeth and gums

  • Toothbrush is triple-headed to target more areas at once

What We Don't Like
  • Only comes in one flavor

  • Toothbrush might be too large for very small dogs

The Vet's Best Dog Toothbrush and Toothpaste Kit has everything you need to effectively clean your dog's mouth. The toothpaste is formulated to help reduce plaque and tartar while soothing gums, whitening teeth, and freshening breath, and the toothbrush that is included has a bristled head with three scrubbing sides to help brush your dog's teeth more quickly and from every angle.

The Vet's Best toothpaste is made with dog-friendly ingredients including grapefruit seed extract, neem oil, baking soda, and aloe, and is free of artificial chemicals or flavors. The toothpaste comes in one flavor, banana, which some dogs love while others can't seem to tolerate.

The kit from Vet's Best was formulated with the help of veterinarians in the United States and is approved for use with adult and senior dogs. There also a kit sized specifically for puppies.

Ingredients: Glycerin, aloe, pectin, neem oil, grapefruit seed extract, baking soda (sodium bicarbonate), glucose, oxidase (enzymes), and natural flavors | Size: 3.5 ounces | Flavors: Banana

Best Budget

Nutri-Vet Enzymatic Toothpaste for Dogs

Nutri-Vet Enzymatic Toothpaste for Dogs

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Use
    5/5
  • Flavor
    5/5
  • Scent
    5/5
  • Effectiveness
    5/5
What We Like
  • Noticeably brightens teeth and neutralized breath

  • Chicken flavor and scent were highly appealing to our participating dog

  • Enzymatic formula quickly eliminates buildup on teeth

What We Don't Like
  • Not recommended for dogs with a poultry allergy

Nutri-Vet Enzymatic Toothpaste for Dogs is an effective dog toothpaste at an approachable price with a chicken flavor our dog tester seems to really enjoy. If your dog also loves chicken then brushing their teeth will be easier with this toothpaste. Our volunteer perks up at the sight of the meat-flavored tube, and with toothbrushing sessions once or twice a week, there has been a noticeable reduction of buildup on their teeth and their foul breath has been neutralized.

The thick paste formula contains enzymes that get to work immediately upon application to a dog's teeth and gums. The product is positioned as non-foaming but we felt that it produced a small amount of foam. It's only available with a chicken flavor, so we do not recommend this toothpaste for dogs who experience adverse reactions to poultry.

Ingredients: Purified water, sorbitol, glycerin, hydrated silica, dicalcium phosphate, xanthan gum, artificial flavor, sodium saccharin, sodium benzoate, glucose oxidase | Size: 2.5 ounces | Flavors: Chicken

Nutri-Vet Enzymatic Toothpaste for Dogs
Cleaner teeth with Nutri-Vet Enzymatic Toothpaste for Dogs.

The Spruce / Rachel Thalhuber

Best Flavorless

Oxyfresh Premium Dog Toothpaste

Oxyfresh Premium Dog Toothpaste

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Use
    5/5
  • Flavor
    4/5
  • Scent
    5/5
  • Effectiveness
    5/5
What We Like
  • Can be applied with or without a dog toothbrush

  • We found no detectable scent from this toothpaste

  • Easy-to-use gel

  • Effectively cleaned our dog's mouth

  • Safe for use with cats

What We Don't Like
  • Lack of flavor might not entice your dog

The Oxyfresh Dental Gel Premium Dog Toothpaste is an effective flavorless toothpaste that made a noticeable improvement in our dog's teeth and breath.

This neutral toothpaste is without a flavor additive. Many toothpaste products for dogs rely on artificial flavoring to entice a canine, but along with the meaty or cheesy flavoring often comes an aroma that many humans do not find appealing. This gel toothpaste has no detectable scent and can be applied to your dog's mouth using a pet toothbrush or your finger. You can also try putting the paste directly on your dog's paw to let them lick it off, but that might lead to gel paw prints on non-teeth surfaces in your home. The toothpaste is made in the United States with minimal ingredients and is also safe for use with cats.

Ingredients: Water, chondrus crispus, sodium chlorite, aloe barbadensis leaf juice, chamomilla recutita extract, glycerin, methylparaben, Propylparaben | Size: 4 ounces | Flavors: Flavorless

Best for Bad Breath

Vet’s Best Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste

Vet's Best Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Use
    5/5
  • Flavor
    5/5
  • Scent
    5/5
  • Effectiveness
    5/5
What We Like
  • Can be applied directly to tongue to freshen breath

  • Contains soothing and anti-inflammatory properties from aloe and neem oil

  • Combines multiple active ingredients, including grapefruit seed extract, baking soda, and enzymes

What We Don't Like
  • While dogs liked the flavor, we're not sure what "Natural" is

The formula for Vet’s Best Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste is made with aloe and neem oil to soothe irritated and inflamed gums along with grapefruit seed extract, baking soda, and enzymes to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria. In between cleaning sessions with a toothbrush or finger brush, the clear gel toothpaste can be applied to a dog's tongue to neutralize odor-causing buildup in their mouth.

The flavor, described as "natural" by the manufacturer, pleased our participating canine tester, and the slight aloe-like scent is mild. This toothpaste may also be suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs, but you should consult with your veterinarian if that is a concern.

Ingredients: Glycerin, aloe, pectin, neem oil, grapefruit seed extract, sodium bicarbonate, glucose oxidase, natural flavors | Size: 3.5 ounces | Flavors: Natural flavor

Vet's Best Dog Toothbrush and Enzymatic Toothpaste Set
Finger brushing with Vet's Best Dog Enzymatic Toothpaste.

The Spruce / Allison Vancura

Best for Puppies

Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Dog Toothpaste

Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Dog Toothpaste

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Use
    5/5
  • Flavor
    5/5
  • Scent
    5/5
  • Effectiveness
    4/5
What We Like
  • Two flavors to choose from

  • Safe for use by dogs of all ages

  • Helps remove plaque and tartar

What We Don't Like
  • Our dog liked the flavor, even if we're not sure what "Original" tastes like

Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Dog Toothpaste is made with a proprietary blend of ingredients that the manufacturer calls Denta-C to help remove tartar and plaque from a dog's teeth. The paste is safe for dogs to consume and can be used to clean the teeth of dogs at any age, with a smaller dosage for younger pups.

“One of the keys to brushing your dog’s teeth is to start early when they are young to establish a daily routine and ensure positive rewards during the process, then build on these good habits right from the start,” Dr. Machell said.

During testing, our participating dog enjoyed the Original flavor. We are unable to determine its flavor profile, but it does not have a strong scent. The toothpaste also comes in a peanut butter flavor.

It's also available in a useful kit.

Ingredients: Sorbitol, water, silica, glycerin, cellulose gum, sodium ascorbyl phosphate, sodium copper chlorophyllin, sodium hexametaphosphate, tetrasodium pyrophosphate, flavor, titanium dioxide, potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, magnesium aluminum silicate | Size: 2.5 ounces | Flavors: Original, peanut butter

Best Dental Wipes

Vet's Best Dental Care Finger Wipes

Vets Best

Amazon

What We Like
  • No toothbrush needed

  • Fits over most fingers

  • Uses natural ingredients

What We Don't Like
  • For full effectiveness, your dog shouldn't drink or eat for 30 minutes after use

If your dog can't handle a toothbrush, they may trust your touch a little more. Vet's Best Dental Care Finger Wipes for Cats & Dogs fit over your finger. To use, you rub the wipe in a tight, circular motion over your dog's teeth. The wipes are soaked with a combination of grapefruit seed extract, green tea extract, spearmint oil, and thyme oil designed to freshen breath and help clear plaque. The lightly textured wipes provide a little scrubbing power too.

Each box of Vet's Best comes with 50 finger wipes, which can last six months if you brush your dog's teeth twice a week.

Ingredients: Purified water, denatured alcohol, glycerin, emulsifier, preservative, green tea extract, grapefruit seed extract, spearmint oil, deodorizer, thyme oil, sucralose, citric acid | Size: 50 disposable wipes | Flavors: N/A

Best Brushless

Pet King Oratene Brushless Toothpaste Gel

Pet King Oratene Brushless Toothpaste Gel

Amazon

What We Like
  • Alcohol- and xylitol-free

  • No excessive salivation

  • Safe to use with cats

What We Don't Like
  • Doesn't really say what flavor it is, only that it's pleasant

Oratene Brushless Toothpaste Gel for dogs offers an effective way to keep your dog's teeth and gums fresh-smelling and clean. It is alcohol- and xylitol-free and, according to the brand, has a pleasant flavor that pets like.

This gel toothpaste is intended to be applied once or twice daily by using a pet toothbrush or your finger to rub it on the gums. The product does not need to be rinsed and most dogs end up licking the product around their teeth. Plus, the toothpaste is safe for use with cats.

Ingredients: Aloe vera, dextranase, dextrose, glucose oxidase, glyceryl methacrylate, lactoperoxidase, lysozyme, lactoferrin, polyglycitol sorbitol gum, potassium thiocynate | Size: 2.5 ounces | Flavor: Pleasant

Best for Gum Care

Arm & Hammer Clinical Gum Health Toothpaste & Brush Kit

Arm & Hammer Clinical Gum Health Dog Toothpaste & Brush Kit

PetSmart

What We Like
  • Dogs like the chicken flavor

  • Toothpaste has good consistency

  • Noticeably improved dog's breath

What We Don't Like
  • Not all natural ingredients

A tube of chicken-flavored toothpaste, a toothbrush, and a finger brush complete the Arm & Hammer for Pets Clinical Care Dental Gum Health Kit for Dogs. The consistency of this toothpaste strikes a nice balance so it easily comes out of the tube and remains on the brush. Our participating dog tester adored this toothpaste and was eager to participate as soon as they saw the tube being taken out of the cabinet.

During our testing, the toothbrush was used on a small dog and a big dog who both enjoyed gently chewing on the instrument while it gently brushed away debris in the back of their mouths.

And while it didn't change the scent of either dog's breath, the brush and toothpaste kit did effectively reduce the intensity of the odor. The toothpaste is made with some all-natural ingredients—as stated on the packaging—but there are some additives, such as xanthan gum (a stabilizer in care products and food), which do not occur in nature but are safe for use in pet products.

Ingredients: Water, sorbitol, hydrated silica, butylene glycol, polysorbate20, hydroxyenthylcellulose, xanthan gum, camellia sinesis leaf extract, chrysanthemum morifoium ramat extract, triclosan, potassium nitrate, mahonia aquifolium root extract, hydrastis canadensis (goldenseal) root extract, commiphora myrrha (myrrh) gum, calendula officinalis flower extract, aloe barbadensis leaf juice, linum usitatissium (flax) seed oil, omega-3 fatty acids, titanium dioxide, flavor, cellulose gum, coco-glucoside, sodium saccharin, sodium benzoate | Size: 2.5 ounces | Flavor: Chicken

Best Water Additive

Skout's Honor Water Additive

Skout's Honor Water Additive Oral Care for Pets

Skout's Honor 

What We Like
  • Accepted by VHOC for control of tartar buildup

  • Two flavors: fresh & flavorless and peanut putter & bacon

  • Suitable for daily use

What We Don't Like
  • Not as effective as brushing teeth

We have not yet tested Skout's Honor Water Additive Oral Care for Pets, but the water additive has has received the Veterinary Oral Health Council Seal of Acceptance for tartar control. It is suitable for daily use to help reduce buildup on a dog's teeth each time they sip from their water bowl. The clear-colored oral health product comes in two flavors, Fresh & Flavorless and Peanut Butter & Bacon, and is designed to be added to your dog's go-to source for hydration.

Each day when you refill your dog's bowl with water, you can add two squeezes of Water Additive Oral Care for Pets per 2 1/2 cups of water. The additive is intended to soften tartar on teeth and prevent additional tartar from hardening into plaque. No brushing is required with this product, but it's more effective to also brush your dog's teeth with dog toothpaste. Skout's Honor manufactures this product in the United States, and offers a refund if you and your dog are not satisfied with its performance.

Ingredients: Water, sodium citrate, citric acid, disodium edta, potassium benzoate, zinc chloride | Size: 32 ounces | Flavor: Fresh & flavorless; peanut butter & bacon

Final Verdict

Our pick for the best overall dog toothpaste is Petsmile Professional Pet Toothpaste. It effectively reduces buildup and freshens breath with or without the use of a dog toothbrush. It also has the seal of approval from the Veterinary Oral Health Council. If you prefer an enzymatic dog toothpaste, Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste is available in five flavors and noticeably improved the appearance of our dog's teeth and gums during testing.

What to Look for in a Dog Toothpaste

Brushing


A dog toothbrush can help you reach more areas in your dog's mouth, but a finger brush is easier to use. For enzymatic dog toothpaste, scrubbing with a toothbrush is critical for igniting the chemical reaction that reduces plaque and tartar.

Target the front teeth first and gradually move to the back, before checking over their entire mouth. Move the toothbrush or finger brush in a circle or up and down and focus on the crowns of the molars and the external facing side of the teeth to eliminate tartar.

"The most significant amount of dental plaque and tartar develops on the surface of the tooth that rests against the inside of the cheek, so concentrate your efforts there,” Dr. Machell said. “Brushing should start at the gumline working gently towards the tip of the tooth."

Some toothpastes also work—albeit less effectively—by applying directly to your dog's teeth, without brushing. But even if that might work temporarily, there is no replacement for brushing. Our favorite toothbrush is the Woobamboo Dog & Cat Toothbrush, which is affordable, recyclable, available in two different sizes, and easy to use.

Regular at-home brushing can help your dog avoid gingivitis which can lead to periodontal disease. It can also help to reduce your dog's need for professional dental cleanings which require anesthesia and can be expensive. Dog dental chews can also be used as a supplement to daily brushing,

Flavor

“So many dogs are motivated by food, so choosing a flavor that your dog loves can enhance the positive reward your dog experiences in the process,” veterinarian Sarah Machell, DVM, told The Spruce Pets.

For example, if your dog enjoys meaty treats over seafood flavors, then introducing a beef-flavored toothpaste could make it easier to clean your dog's teeth. You may worry that a scent that will appeal to your dog might be stinky for human noses, but all of the dog toothpastes we tested had only slight to non-detectable scents.

Dog Breath vs. Bad Breath

Dog breath is a normal part of being a dog, and regular cleaning is meant to neutralize bacteria-causing odor. However, if you notice a change or a very foul odor coming from your dog's mouth, you should make an appointment to see your veterinarian. Bad breath could be an indicator of a more serious health issue, like periodontal disease, which affects over 80 percent of dogs in some form by the age of 2.

How We Tested

We researched and selected 17 dog toothpaste products for real-world testing with real dogs. For a four-week period, our participants followed our methodology to carefully observe and record how their dog responded to the toothpaste.

Arm & Hammer for Pets Clinical Care Dental Enzymatic Toothpaste for Dogs
Documenting consistency of dog toothpaste and application method.

The Spruce / Alyssa Kingham

We asked that each tester brush their dog's teeth for a minimum of seven sessions, but encouraged all testers to brush their dog's teeth every day or every other day.

Virbac CET Enzymatic Toothpaste
Tester using a dog toothbrush and Virbac C.E.T Enzymatic Toothpaste.

The Spruce / Katie Tuttle

Testers took photos and recorded any changes in the appearance of their dog's teeth, including color, texture, and plaque lining along with the smell of their dog's breath. They then provided their feedback within the following categories: ease of use, flavor, and scent.

Arm & Hammer for Pets Clinical Care Dental Enzymatic Toothpaste for Dogs
Documenting brighter teeth after regular brushing with Arm & Hammer Fresh Breath Enzymatic Toothpaste for Dogs.

The Spruce / Alyssa Kingham

After the testing window closed, we compiled our testers' notes and averaged their ratings across multiple categories. Of 17 products tested, 11 earned high enough scores to be worth recommending. After additional research and consultation with experts, we can confidently recommend 10 different products.

FAQ
  • Can I use human toothpaste on my dog?

    No, you should never use human toothpaste on a dog.

    “There are many components of human toothpaste that can be irritating and cause stomach upset if consumed," Dr. Machell told The Spruce Pets. "Our pets aren't good at following the directions 'rinse and spit.'"

    The pH in a dog’s mouth differs greatly from a human’s mouth, and the majority of toothpaste products made for people contain xylitol, a sweetener that is highly toxic for dogs. Xylitol can cause blood sugar to drop in dogs which which can lead to liver damage.


  • Does dog toothpaste expire?

    Yes, the ingredients in dog toothpaste become less effective over time, and like most consumable products, dog toothpaste does expire. The packaging should indicate the manufacturer's suggested use-by date or expiration date of the dog toothpaste. Using the product past the expiration date will most likely deliver less desirable results.


  • Can dogs eat dog toothpaste?

    Dog toothpaste products are designed to be safe for consumption. While it may appear like human toothpaste, dogs do not follow the same rinse and spit routine. In fact, a dog's tongue can be a very beneficial tool for spreading toothpaste throughout the mouth.


  • Is dog toothpaste safe?

    Yes, dog toothpaste is safe. It should be used properly by following the instructions for the specific toothpaste of your choice. Generally, a small amount, roughly pea-sized, is sufficient for each cleaning session.

    Never let your dog have the entire tube in one sitting and do not leave them unsupervised with the product. If your dog consumes too much dog toothpaste, it will most likely lead to an upset stomach, but you should consult with your veterinarian immediately to rule out any other potential issues.

Why Trust The Spruce Pets?

This roundup was updated by Anna Mejorada, a writer for The Spruce Pets, who shares her home with a happy pomeranian named Gidget. Before researching and writing about pet products for a living, Mejorada embarked on a self-mandated, ongoing quest to find the optimal items for her dog. She is now delightfully devoted to helping humans discover and select the most favorable products for their pets.

Previous versions were written by Winston Cook-Wilson, a writer and editor based in New York City, and Anne Fritz, who has worked in the publishing industry for over 20 years.

The Spruce Pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
  1. Brushing is best for pet dental health. University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine.

  2. Periodontal disease: utilizing current information to improve client compliance. Today’s Veterinary Practice.

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