Can puppies have toothpaste? Find Out Here

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Is Human Toothpaste Safe For Dogs?

Never use human toothpaste for your dog!

Many human toothpastes contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is toxic to dogs. Xylitol can cause blood sugar drops in dogs, as well as potential liver damage and even death.

Human toothpastes also usually contain fluoride … another dangerous ingredient for your dog. Fluoride is a neurotoxicant that can affect brain and behavioral development. Ironically, it can also damage teeth, weaken bones and has even been linked to deadly osteosarcoma.

Other undesirable ingredients in human toothpastes include detergents like sodium lauryl sulfate, which is linked to mouth sores. There are humectants like propylene glycol, which is also in antifreeze. And of course, those bold stripes and bright colors mean toothpaste contains artificial colors and flavors you don’t want in your dog’s mouth.

How To Make Natural Toothpaste For Dogs

When you make toothpaste for your dog, you have total control over the ingredients. And you’ve probably got everything on hand. It’s also more affordable compared to the $8 to $44 (yes $44!!) charged by commercial brands.

There are extra things you can add to take it up a notch as well.

Your dog might have plaque or tartar and the bacteria that comes with it. If so, you can add 1 Tbsp of either a good soil-based probiotic, or bentonite clay to the following recipes, with extra liquid as needed. It’s great at binding to pathogenic bacteria. And it all leaves your dog’s system when he poops.

You can create your own toothpaste from this list of suggestions.

  • A liquid or oil such as MCT, olive, avocado or hempseed or ghee or aloe vera gel (without aloin)
  • An exfoliate like natural baking soda or sea salt
  • Flavorings like natural broth
  • Herbs like mint, parsley or calendula
  • Calendula tincture
  • Probiotic powder
  • Extras like kelp, turmeric or cinnamon powder

    • What should I use for pet toothpaste?

    Now that you have stored the Crest and Colgate out of reach, you may be wondering what you should use when caring for your dogs teeth. Don’t worry — you have plenty of choices to top their toothbrush:

  • Specialty canine pet toothpaste is available to buy in an array of mouth watering flavors from peanut butter to poultry. Don’t judge; these flavors were designed for your pup’s taste palette! You can find these at pet stores and online retailers.
  • Doggie dental wipes can be used every day to wipe away plaque and tartar buildup. Wipe thoroughly and wipe often!
  • Oral care gel products are a good choice for dogs who make toothbrush time feel like a wrestling match. Although the reviews are mixed, these gels claim to clean your puppy’s teeth and gums upon application. No dog toothbrush required!
  • Coconut oil has powerful antibacterial properties and can help prevent tooth decay. It contains lauric acid, a potent fighter of bacteria like Streptococcus mutans (the leading cause of tooth decay). Coconut oil reduces plaque buildup and gum swelling quickly and naturally.
  • Homemade dog toothpaste is another fresh and wallet friendly choice. These recipes typically use a combination of some of the following natural ingredients: baking soda, mint leaves, poultry malt (or beef), parsley, and other pantry items. Rover has a helpful blog post that includes 3 recipes for homemade dog toothpaste ranging from basic baking soda to a spicy cinnamon concoction.

    • Toothpaste for Dogs: DIY and Natural

    Doggie breath is caused by a number of things. If you’re lucky, regular brushing with a natural toothpaste should fight bacteria and freshen his breath. Brush as regularly as you feed him. And it should start when he’s a puppy. If you think there may be more serious issues, you should see your holistic vet. But for today, let’s have a look at how to choose the right toothpaste for your dog to prevent those problems.