Plaque buildup is the first step in a whole mess of dental issues for your pup. Plaque forms on your dog's teeth a few hours after they eat, and if it is not removed in a timely manner, it will mix with the salt and saliva in his mouth and harden into tartar, which is much more difficult to remove. After tartar forms on his teeth, it can integrate with harmful bacteria, creep below the gumline, and problems like gingivitis start to occur.

Putting an Additive in their Water

Using Special Treats

Another helpful product are chews that help to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. The key ingredient used in these chews that breaks up and releases the plaque is called delmopinol. This ingredient also works to form a protective coating on the outside of the teeth - like fluoride for humans - that actually guards against the bacteria that leads to plaque and tartar accumulation.

Just one chew a day and you can say goodbye to slimy teeth and rotten breath. Just one of these treats a day and your pup will be smiling from ear to ear! 

Cleaning your Dog's Teeth Manually

Of course, we can't overlook the tried and trusted method of brushing your dog's teeth regularly. There are a variety of different toothbrushes out there to fit your dog's needs, ranging from long handled, double ended brushes, to finger brushes that allow you to get close to the gumline and even massage the gums.

There are also a plethora of doggie toothpastes to choose from so at least your dog can enjoy the taste of peanut butter or bacon while you’re prodding away at her mouth.

Most pups are a hassle to deal with when you're trying to get their teeth clean, but if you have a "unicorn" of dogs who actually sits still while you're scrubbing her teeth, there are actually dog hygiene dental kits that you can use to really scrape away the plaque and tartar around your pup’s chompers.

DIY Dog Toothbrush: Bristly Brushing Stick

Of course, if you want to take the work out of brushing altogether, try a Bristly Brushing Stick! With a toothpaste reservoir and efficient rubber bristles, you can say goodbye to wrangling your pup on the floor while you try to get toothpaste in his mouth and on his teeth, but end up getting more of it on the dog's head, on your clothes, and probably in your hair.

These sticks are made of durable rubber and comfort-designed paw pads to keep your dog entertained for hours, all while getting his mouth sparkling clean!