🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

The Right Dog Toothbrush for Dogs under 20 Lbs

Small dogs have crowded teeth that trap plaque. Prevent dental disease with a properly sized brush. We compare 5 top picks, including Burt's Bees ultra soft bristle toothbrush.

ProPawPicks Editorial Team

ProPawPicks Reviewer

Updated

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Burt's Bees for Dogs Toothbrush with Ultra Soft Bristles

★ Top Pick: Burt's Bees for Dogs Toothbrush with Ultra Soft Bri…

5 to 10

Minutes per brushing session

2 to 3

Times per week recommended

80%

Of dental disease preventable with brushing

Under 1 inch

Ideal brush head width for small dogs

⚡ Key takeaways

Best Overall: Burt's Bees for Dogs Toothbrush with Ultra Soft Bristles. This toothbrush features ultra-soft bristles and a small, angled head perfect for dogs und.
Best for Sensitive Gums: Paws & Pals Dual-Headed Dog Toothbrush. The dual-headed design includes a small brush for front teeth and a larger one for back te.
Best Budget: Pet Republique Dog Toothbrush Kit with Finger Brush. This kit includes a traditional toothbrush and a silicone finger brush, giving you two opt.
Best Value Set: Vet's Best Dog Toothbrush with Enzymatic Toothpaste. Comes with a small-headed toothbrush and a tube of enzymatic toothpaste that helps reduce.
Best for Chewers: Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Dog Toothbrush. This toothbrush has a durable, chew-resistant handle and extra-soft bristles.

Quick answer

The best dog toothbrush for dogs under 20 lbs is the Burt’s Bees for Dogs Toothbrush with its ultra-soft bristles and angled head designed for small mouths. If your dog is extra sensitive, the Paws & Pals Dual-Headed Toothbrush offers two brush sizes in one. For a budget-friendly option, the Pet Republique Toothbrush Kit includes a finger brush for gentle cleaning.

What to consider for Dog Toothbrush For Dogs Under 20 Lbs

Small dogs have tiny mouths and delicate gums, so the toothbrush head must be small (under 1 inch) with extra-soft bristles to avoid irritation. A long, angled handle helps reach back teeth, while a non-slip grip gives you control. Look for a brush that is gentle on enamel and safe if your dog chews on it. Also consider whether your dog prefers a traditional brush or a finger brush for easier acceptance.

What to look for in a grooming product (shampoo, brush, clipper or wipe)

When choosing a grooming product for your small dog, match the tool to their coat type. For toothbrushes, ensure the bristles are soft and the head is small. For shampoos, look for dog-safe ingredients with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5 to protect sensitive skin. Clippers should have quiet motors and sharp blades to avoid pulling. Brushes should be gentle on the skin and effective at removing loose fur. Ease of use is key for nervous dogs.

How we chose these picks

Evaluated bristle softness and head size for small mouths
Checked handle design for ergonomic grip and reach
Reviewed material safety (BPA-free, non-toxic)
Considered customer feedback on durability and dog acceptance
Prioritized products from reputable pet brands
Compared price to value for budget-conscious owners
Ensured each pick is widely available on Amazon
Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission

What to avoid

Human toothbrushes: bristles are too hard and can damage dog gums
Harsh flavors like mint that may deter dogs
Brushes with detachable heads that pose a choking hazard
Using human toothpaste (contains xylitol, toxic to dogs)

For more grooming tips, see our dog guides and explore dog health and dog care products.

Sources and further reading

At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Product	Best For
Burt's Bees for Dogs Toothbrush with Ultra So…	Best Overall	Check price →
Paws & Pals Dual-Headed Dog Toothbrush	Best for Sensitive Gums	Check price →
Pet Republique Dog Toothbrush Kit with Finger…	Best Budget	Check price →
Vet's Best Dog Toothbrush with Enzymatic Toot…	Best Value Set	Check price →
Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Dog Toothbrush	Best for Chewers	Check price →

Why this matters

Small dog breeds are prone to dental disease because their teeth are crowded, making plaque buildup more likely. Regular brushing with a properly sized toothbrush is the most effective preventive measure.

The Options

Types Explained

Traditional Toothbrush

A standard brush with a handle and bristle head, designed for manual brushing. Available in various sizes and bristle firmness.

Best for: Owners who want precise control and thorough cleaning

Finger Brush

A silicone or rubber brush that slips over your finger, allowing you to feel your dog's teeth and gums while brushing.

Best for: Nervous dogs or owners new to brushing

Dual-Headed Toothbrush

A brush with two heads (often one small, one larger) to clean different areas of the mouth.

Key Buying Factors

Bristle Softness

Small dogs have delicate gums, so extra-soft bristles are essential to prevent irritation and bleeding. Hard bristles can damage enamel and cause pain.

Head Size

The brush head should be small enough to fit comfortably in your dog's mouth, ideally under 1 inch. A smaller head allows better maneuverability around teeth.

Handle Design

A long, angled handle helps you reach back molars without straining. A non-slip grip provides better control, especially when your dog moves.

Material Safety

Look for BPA-free, non-toxic materials. Some dogs may chew on the brush, so durability and safety are important to avoid choking hazards.

Dog Acceptance

Some dogs prefer finger brushes over traditional ones. Consider your dog's temperament and past reactions to oral care to choose a brush they will tolerate.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Brushing Technique

Use gentle circular motions at a 45-degree angle to the gum line. Focus on the outer surfaces of teeth, as inner surfaces are cleaned by the tongue. Aim for 30 seconds per side.

Frequency

Brush your dog's teeth at least 2 to 3 times per week. Daily brushing is ideal for preventing plaque buildup. Start slowly to build your dog's tolerance.

Replacement

Replace the toothbrush every 3 to 4 months or sooner if bristles become frayed. A worn brush is less effective and can harbor bacteria.

Pro tip

To make brushing easier, try using a finger brush first to get your dog accustomed to the sensation, then transition to a traditional toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I brush my small dog's teeth?

Ideally, brush your dog's teeth daily. At a minimum, aim for 2 to 3 times per week to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Consistency is key for dental health. Start with short sessions and gradually increase as your dog gets used to it.

Can I use a human toothbrush on my dog?

No, human toothbrushes are not recommended. They have harder bristles that can damage your dog's gums and enamel. Additionally, the head size is often too large for small mouths. Always use a toothbrush specifically designed for dogs, with extra-soft bristles and a small head.

What toothpaste is safe for dogs?

Only use toothpaste formulated for dogs. Human toothpaste contains xylitol, which is toxic to dogs, and foaming agents that can cause stomach upset. Dog toothpaste comes in flavors like poultry or peanut butter and is safe to swallow. Look for enzymatic formulas that help break down plaque.

My dog hates having his teeth brushed. What can I do?

Start by letting your dog taste the toothpaste from your finger. Then gently lift his lip and rub the toothpaste on his teeth with your finger. Gradually introduce a finger brush, then a toothbrush. Use positive reinforcement with treats and praise. Keep sessions short and end on a positive note.

How do I choose the right toothbrush size for my small dog?

The brush head should be small enough to fit comfortably in your dog's mouth, ideally less than 1 inch wide. For dogs under 20 lbs, look for brushes labeled for small breeds or toy breeds. The handle should be long and angled for easy reach to back teeth.

Can I use baking soda to brush my dog's teeth?

Baking soda is not recommended. It can be abrasive and damage enamel, and it may cause stomach upset if swallowed. Stick to dog-specific toothpaste that is safe and effective. If you need a temporary alternative, plain water on a soft brush is better than baking soda.

What are signs of dental disease in small dogs?

Common signs include bad breath, yellow or brown tartar on teeth, red or bleeding gums, difficulty eating, pawing at the mouth, and drooling. Small breeds are prone to dental issues due to crowded teeth. Regular brushing and veterinary checkups are essential for prevention.

Is it necessary to brush my dog's back teeth?

Yes, back teeth (molars) are where plaque and tartar accumulate most. They are also harder to clean. Use an angled toothbrush to reach these areas. Neglecting back teeth can lead to periodontal disease, pain, and tooth loss.

Can dental chews replace brushing?

Dental chews can help reduce plaque but are not a substitute for brushing. They work on chewing surfaces but miss the gum line and inner teeth. Brushing is the most effective way to prevent dental disease. Use chews as a supplement, not a replacement.

A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.

Transparency

How we made this guide

How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Dog Care Products, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.

How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.

Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.

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