Starting Strong: How to Protect Your Puppy’s Pearly Whites

Dr. Zeke Zekoff
Apr 3
2 min read

Your new puppy has 28 tiny teeth—and each one plays a crucial role in their health, development, and day-to-day joy. From chewing toys to exploring the world, your puppy’s mouth is always in motion. That’s why starting a dental care routine early isn’t just smart—it’s essential.

Left unchecked, plaque and tartar can build up quickly, leading to periodontal disease, pain, and even tooth loss. But the good news? With a little patience and positive reinforcement, you can teach your puppy that brushing isn’t scary—it’s just another part of a happy routine.

Why Early Brushing Matters

Your puppy’s baby teeth will eventually fall out and be replaced by 42 adult teeth. But dental hygiene starts long before that. Plaque can begin hardening into tartar in as little as 36 hours, so it’s important to start brushing as early and as often as possible—ideally daily.

Just like with children, good habits formed early tend to stick. And if your puppy learns that brushing is a fun and rewarding experience, you’ll both benefit for years to come.

Choosing the Right Toothbrush

There are several puppy-safe toothbrush options available:

Standard-style brushes that resemble human toothbrushes (just be sure you don't mix them up!)
Finger brushes—soft, rubbery tools that fit over your fingertip
Vet-recommended options designed to safely fit inside your puppy’s mouth

Ask your veterinary team for recommendations based on your puppy’s breed and size.

Don’t Use the Force—Use the Fun

Toothbrushing should be a gentle, positive experience. Never restrain your puppy or force the brush into their mouth. Instead:

Let your puppy sniff and explore the brush.
Reward curiosity and calm behavior with treats.
Gradually introduce the brush to their mouth—just for a second or two at first.
Go slow, and always step back if your puppy becomes uncomfortable.

You probably won’t brush all 28 teeth on day one—and that’s completely fine. The key is to build trust and gradually work up to longer brushing sessions.

Pick a Puppy-Safe Toothpaste

Never use human toothpaste—many contain ingredients like fluoride or xylitol, which can be harmful to dogs. Instead, pick a pet-safe toothpaste in flavors dogs love, like:

Chicken
Peanut butter
Vanilla mint (for fancier pups)

This adds an element of fun to the experience and makes your puppy more likely to cooperate.

Make the Toothbrush a Happy Object

Store the toothbrush in a drawer or container with other treats and toys, so your puppy learns to associate it with good things. When the drawer opens, fun follows. It’s a simple trick that helps make brushing just another part of your shared daily routine.

Final Thoughts

Dental care is often overlooked in early puppyhood—but it’s one of the most important habits you can build. By brushing your puppy’s teeth every day, you’re not just preventing dental disease—you’re setting the foundation for a lifetime of good health.

So grab that brush, keep the treats handy, and celebrate every small step forward. Your puppy’s smile will thank you.