Brushing your dog’s teeth is the single most effective thing you can do for their dental health at home — more effective than dental chews, water additives, or any other home dental care product. Yet it remains one of the most neglected aspects of senior dog care. By the time dogs reach their senior years most have significant tartar buildup and early dental disease — and regular brushing can slow further deterioration, reduce bacteria levels in the mouth, and significantly improve breath.
The key is using the right toothbrush and toothpaste, and introducing the routine gradually so your senior dog accepts it.
Note: This page contains affiliate links. If you purchase through our links we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Why You Must Never Use Human Toothpaste on Dogs
Human toothpaste contains fluoride and xylitol — both of which are toxic to dogs. Even a small amount of human toothpaste swallowed by a dog can cause serious harm. Always use toothpaste specifically formulated for dogs — it is designed to be safely swallowed, comes in flavours dogs enjoy, and does not contain harmful ingredients.
Our Top Pick
Arm and Hammer Tartar Control Dental Kit for Dogs — Beef Flavor — Best Overall
Arm and Hammer is one of the most recognised and trusted dental care brands in the world and their dog dental kit delivers that expertise in a product specifically designed for dogs. The beef flavour toothpaste makes the brushing experience far more enjoyable for dogs — many dogs actually look forward to tooth brushing once they associate it with the beef flavour. The baking soda based formula gently neutralises odour-causing bacteria and helps break down tartar without harsh abrasives. The kit includes everything you need to start a dental care routine immediately.
Best for: Senior dogs of all sizes needing regular dental care
Key features: Beef flavour, baking soda formula, tartar control, complete kit
Includes: Toothpaste and toothbrush
Pros:
- Trusted Arm and Hammer brand
- Beef flavour — most dogs accept it enthusiastically
- Baking soda formula — gentle tartar control and odour neutralising
- Complete kit — everything needed to start immediately
- Safe to swallow — formulated for dogs
- No fluoride or xylitol
Cons:
- Some dogs are reluctant to accept tooth brushing regardless of flavour
- Requires consistent daily use for best results
Check price on Amazon Australia →
How to Brush a Senior Dog’s Teeth
Introducing tooth brushing to a senior dog who has never experienced it requires patience. Start by letting your dog lick a small amount of toothpaste from your finger — let them get used to the flavour over several days. Next wrap gauze around your finger and gently rub the teeth and gums. Once your dog accepts this, introduce the toothbrush — initially without toothpaste, just letting them sniff and lick it. Then progress to gentle brushing of the front teeth before working towards the back teeth where most tartar accumulates.
Focus on the outer surfaces of the teeth — where tartar builds up most — and use gentle circular motions. Even 30 seconds of brushing is better than nothing. Aim to build up to two minutes of brushing daily. Always end on a positive note with a treat reward.
How Often Should You Brush a Senior Dog’s Teeth?
Daily brushing is ideal — plaque hardens into tartar within 24 to 48 hours so daily removal is significantly more effective than less frequent brushing. If daily is not achievable, aim for at least three times per week. Combine brushing with a quality dental chew on non-brushing days for the most comprehensive home dental care routine. See our guide to the best dental chews for senior dogs for our top picks.
Frequently Asked Questions
My senior dog won’t let me brush their teeth — what should I do?
Start even smaller — let them lick toothpaste from your finger for a week before attempting any brushing. Some dogs need several weeks of gradual introduction. If your dog is in dental pain they may resist brushing — a vet check to address existing dental disease may be needed before home brushing becomes comfortable.
Can I use a child’s toothbrush on my dog?
A soft-bristled child’s toothbrush can work for some dogs. However dog-specific toothbrushes are angled and sized for a dog’s mouth and are generally more effective and comfortable. Finger brushes — which fit over your fingertip — are often easier to use for dogs who are resistant to a handled brush.
Is tooth brushing enough or does my senior dog also need professional dental cleaning?
Home brushing significantly slows tartar buildup but cannot remove existing calcified tartar — that requires professional dental scaling under anaesthesia. Most senior dogs benefit from a professional dental cleaning at least every one to two years, combined with daily home brushing to slow re-accumulation between cleans.
Our Verdict
The Arm and Hammer Tartar Control Dental Kit gives you everything you need to start an effective home dental care routine for your senior dog. The beef flavour makes acceptance far easier, the baking soda formula is gentle yet effective, and the trusted brand gives confidence in product safety. Start slowly, be patient, and make tooth brushing a positive daily habit — your senior dog’s health will benefit enormously.
Silver Muzzle Pets is a participant in the Amazon Associates Programme. We earn a small commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.