Start Slow See Results: The Secret to Brushing Your Dog’s Teeth Without the Struggle
Introduction
If you’ve ever tried brushing your dog’s teeth and ended up with toothpaste on the walls, a wiggly pup, and a sense of defeat, you’re not alone. Dental care is one of the most neglected aspects of pet health and that’s not because we don’t care. But let’s face it, starting to brush your dog’s teeth can feel overwhelming. Especially when you’ve failed before.
The truth is, the secret to success is simpler than you think: start slow, keep it positive, and build a habit your dog actually looks forward to.
The DoggyTeeth system was created for this very reason. With a gentle, meal-timed routine, irresistible beef tallow flavor, and tools designed especially for dogs , we make brushing your dog’s teeth not only effective but enjoyable for both of you! And remember, start slow see results. Work with your dog and have fun.
Let’s explore how you can shift the entire brushing experience from stressful to smooth.
1. Why Brushing Your Dog’s Teeth Matters More Than You Think
Dental disease affects over 80% of dogs by age three, often leading to pain, infections, expensive vet bills, and even organ damage. But it’s not just about avoiding problems, a clean, healthy mouth supports a strong immune system, fresh breath, and a longer, happier life.
And while dental chews or water additives may help a little, nothing replaces brushing. Just like us, dogs need mechanical cleaning to remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup. But remember… start slow see results. Working with your dog and going at their pace will set you up for success.
2. The Biggest Mistake People Make When Starting to Brush
The most common mistake? Moving too fast.
We get excited, grab the toothbrush, and go right in. Then we are disappointed to be met with resistance, head shaking, or hiding under the couch. Once a dog has a negative association with brushing, it can be hard to undo.
Instead of rushing, treat brushing like training a new trick or introducing a toy. You wouldn’t just throw your dog into a pool to teach them to swim, so don’t push a brush into their mouth and expect them to like it. Start slow and let them come to you with lots of gentle praise along the way. Your dog wants to please you and your patience will be rewarded so give it time.
3. The DoggyTeeth System: Start Before Meals & Build a Positive Ritual
The DoggyTeeth method is based on timing, taste, and training.
✅ Brush before meals
This is the key. Brushing before meals turns the act into a cue for food. Dogs quickly associate the brushing experience with something rewarding and exciting. It also ensures they swallow the toothpaste safely (since it’s made to be ingested) and follow brushing with something they love, their meal!
✅ Use delicious, natural toothpaste
DoggyTeeth toothpaste is made with grass-fed beef tallow, coconut oil, and the gentle working ingredients of parsley, kelp, neem and olive leaf. Dogs love the flavour and many think it’s a treat.
✅ Go slow and follow your dog’s pace
Start with a small dab of toothpaste on your finger. Let them come to you and lick it. Praise them. Then work up to touching their gums, and eventually using our BPA-free finger brush or bamboo toothbrush. It doesn’t have to be perfect right away, consistency and praise are more important than perfection and fast cooperation. Work with your dog and respect their pace.
4. Make Brushing Part of Your Bonding Routine
Brushing your dog’s teeth doesn’t have to be a chore. In fact, when done the right way, it becomes a daily moment of connection between you and your dog.
Think of it like an enrichment activity:
- You’re engaging their senses.
- You’re training them to enjoy handling.
- You’re spending focused, gentle time with them.
- You’re reinforcing trust through calm and positive interaction.
Set the tone with a calm voice, belly rubs, and no rush. Whether it’s 30 seconds or 3 minutes, every session builds the habit. And with the DoggyTeeth system, you’ll find brushing becomes a moment you both look forward to.
5. What If My Dog Hates Brushing?
That’s okay. You’re not alone. Here are some tips to reset and try again:
- Switch to the finger brush — it’s smaller, softer, and easier to control.
- Reward with their meal after brushing — reinforcing the positive outcome.
- Let them lick the toothpaste as a treat while sitting calmly together.
- Celebrate small wins — even a swipe or a lick is progress.
Remember, the goal isn’t to scrub every tooth on day one. It’s to create a sustainable habit that works for both of you over time.
6. Tools Matter: Make Brushing Comfortable for You and Your Dog
DoggyTeeth offers tools that are designed for real dog owners, no flimsy brushes or weird plastic ingredients. Our BPA Free Finger Brush is perfect for puppies or dogs who are new to brushing, while our biodegradable bamboo toothbrush with charcoal infused bristles gives you gentle yet effective cleaning power.
Combined with our irresistible tallow based toothpaste, your dog will start to associate brushing with something delicious and safe, not something to fear or move away from.
7. Brushing as Preventative Health Care
Just 2 to 3 brushing sessions per week with the DoggyTeeth system can prevent:
- Costly dental cleanings under anesthesia
- Tooth extractions
- Gum infections
- Bad breath
- Painful dental disease
And it supports your dog’s entire system from digestion to immune health and it freshens their breath. That’s something you’ll both love!
Conclusion: Start Slow. Make it Fun. Brush Before Meals.
Brushing your dog’s teeth doesn’t have to be a struggle. With the right timing, the right tools, and a mindset focused on positive association and slow progression, you can build a dental care routine that’s not only effective it’s enriching and enjoyable.
The DoggyTeeth system is here to guide you, one gentle brush at a time.
So take a breath, grab the toothpaste, and remember:
You’re not just brushing teeth you’re building trust, extending health, and creating a daily moment you and your dog will love.
This makes so much sense. Will slow things down and see how it goes. Thanks
We’ve tried this brushing before dinner and it’s working. Thanks for a great tip