🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

Protect Your Basset Hound’s Teeth: 5 Best Dog Toothpastes 2026

Due to their deep dental folds, Basset Hounds face high periodontal risk. Discover the top 5 enzymatic toothpastes including Virbac C.E.T. Poultry Flavor for effective daily care.

ProPawPicks Editorial Team

ProPawPicks Reviewer

Updated

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🐾New to the breed? Read our full Basset Hound breed guide for temperament, care, health and lifespan.

★ Top Pick: Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste, Poultry Flavor

80%

of dogs over 3 have dental disease

2-3x

per week brushing recommended

6-8 oz

typical toothpaste tube size

7.5-9

ideal dog toothpaste pH range

⚡ Key takeaways

Best Overall: Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste, Poultry Flavor. This enzymatic toothpaste is a top choice for Basset Hounds because its dual-enzyme system.
Best for Sensitive Gums: PetSmile Dental Gel for Dogs. PetSmile's gel formula is gentle on sensitive gums, making it ideal for Basset Hounds pron.
Best Natural Formula: Burt's Bees Natural Toothpaste for Dogs. Burt's Bees offers a natural toothpaste free from artificial flavors, colors, and preserva.
Best Budget: TropiClean Fresh Breath Oral Care Gel. TropiClean provides an affordable enzymatic gel that fights plaque and freshens breath.
Best for Tartar Control: Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Tartar Control Toothpaste. This toothpaste is formulated with Denta-C to help reduce tartar buildup, a common issue i.

Quick answer

The best dog toothpaste for Basset Hounds is Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste in poultry flavor. Its dual-enzyme formula fights plaque and tartar while the taste appeals to picky mouths. For dogs with sensitive gums, PetSmile Dental Gel offers a gentle option. If your Basset Hound has allergies, Burt’s Bees Natural Toothpaste is a safe bet.

What to consider for Dog Toothpaste For Basset Hounds

Basset Hounds have long, droopy lips and deep dental folds that trap food and bacteria, making them prone to periodontal disease. Their unique mouth structure requires a toothpaste that is enzymatic to break down plaque, safe to swallow (since they can’t rinse), and palatable to encourage cooperation. Avoid foaming agents and xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. A poultry or peanut butter flavor often works best for this breed’s discerning taste.

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

For a toothpaste, look for enzymatic formulas that target plaque without harsh abrasives. The paste should be dog-safe with a pH appropriate for canine mouths (around 7.5 to 9). Choose a flavor your Basset Hound enjoys, such as poultry or beef, to make brushing less of a struggle. A soft-bristled toothbrush or finger brush designed for dogs helps reach those hard-to-access areas. Avoid products with artificial sweeteners, especially xylitol.

How we chose these picks

Evaluated ingredient safety, ensuring no xylitol or harmful additives.
Considered enzymatic action for effective plaque and tartar control.
Reviewed flavor palatability based on breed-specific feedback.
Checked for veterinary dental association acceptance (VOHC or similar).
Assessed ease of use for owners of droopy-mouthed breeds.
Compared price per ounce for value.
Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

Human toothpaste: contains foaming agents and fluoride that can upset a dog’s stomach.
Xylitol-sweetened products: even small amounts can cause hypoglycemia in dogs.
Harsh abrasives like baking soda or charcoal that can wear down enamel.
Strong mint or cinnamon flavors that may deter Basset Hounds.
Toothpastes with artificial colors or preservatives that offer no dental benefit.

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

Sources and further reading

At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Product	Best For
Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste, Poultry F…	Best Overall	Check price →
PetSmile Dental Gel for Dogs	Best for Sensitive Gums	Check price →
Burt's Bees Natural Toothpaste for Dogs	Best Natural Formula	Check price →
TropiClean Fresh Breath Oral Care Gel	Best Budget	Check price →
Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Tartar Control To…	Best for Tartar Control	Check price →

Why this matters

Basset Hounds have a unique mouth structure with deep dental folds that trap bacteria, making them three times more likely to develop periodontal disease than other breeds, so daily brushing with an enzymatic toothpaste is critical.

The Options

Types Explained

Enzymatic Toothpaste

Contains enzymes that chemically break down plaque and tartar. Most effective for preventing dental disease.

Best for: Daily plaque control and maintenance of oral health.

Natural Toothpaste

Made with natural ingredients like coconut oil, baking soda, or herbal extracts. Free from artificial additives.

Best for: Dogs with sensitive gums or allergies to synthetic ingredients.

Dental Gel

A gel consistency that can be applied without a brush, often with a finger or directly on teeth. Some are enzymatic.

Key Buying Factors

Enzymatic Formula

Look for toothpastes containing enzymes like glucose oxidase that help break down plaque and tartar without harsh abrasives.

Safe Ingredients

Flavor Palatability

Basset Hounds can be picky. Poultry, beef, or peanut butter flavors are generally well-accepted. Avoid mint or citrus.

Texture and Consistency

Pastes or gels that are easy to apply with a finger brush or toothbrush make the process smoother for both owner and dog.

Veterinary Acceptance

Products with the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal have proven efficacy in reducing plaque and tartar.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Brushing Technique

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or finger brush designed for dogs. Apply a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and brush in circular motions, focusing on the gum line. Aim for 30 seconds per side.

Frequency

Brush your Basset Hound's teeth at least 2 to 3 times per week. Daily brushing is ideal for preventing plaque buildup. Consistency is key.

Introducing Toothpaste

Start by letting your dog lick a small amount of toothpaste from your finger. Gradually introduce the brush, rewarding with praise. Keep sessions short and positive.

Pro tip

To make brushing easier, use a finger brush with a textured surface that can reach into the dental folds, and always reward your Basset Hound with a treat after each session to build positive association.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I brush my Basset Hound's teeth?

We recommend brushing at least 2 to 3 times per week, though daily brushing is ideal for optimal dental health. Basset Hounds are prone to periodontal disease due to their mouth structure, so regular brushing helps prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Start slowly and use positive reinforcement to make the experience enjoyable.

Can I use human toothpaste for my dog?

No, human toothpaste should never be used on dogs. It contains ingredients like fluoride and xylitol that are toxic to dogs if swallowed. Additionally, human toothpaste foams, which can cause stomach upset. Always use a toothpaste specifically formulated for dogs, which is safe to ingest and has a pH suitable for canine mouths.

What flavor toothpaste do Basset Hounds prefer?

Basset Hounds generally prefer savory flavors like poultry, beef, or peanut butter. Avoid mint, citrus, or cinnamon flavors, which can be off-putting. Many enzymatic toothpastes come in poultry flavor, which is widely accepted. If your dog is picky, try a small sample before committing to a full tube.

Is enzymatic toothpaste better than natural toothpaste?

Enzymatic toothpaste is generally more effective at breaking down plaque and tartar because it contains active enzymes that chemically dissolve debris. Natural toothpastes rely on mechanical action and ingredients like coconut oil or baking soda. For Basset Hounds with high dental disease risk, an enzymatic formula is often recommended, but natural options can be good for maintenance.

Can I use a water additive instead of toothpaste?

Water additives can help reduce plaque and freshen breath, but they are not a substitute for brushing. They work by adding enzymes or antibacterial agents to your dog's drinking water. For best results, use a water additive as a supplement to regular brushing, not a replacement. Always follow the product instructions for dosage.

What should I do if my Basset Hound refuses to have its teeth brushed?

Start by desensitizing your dog to having its mouth touched. Let it lick toothpaste from your finger, then gradually introduce a finger brush. Use high-value treats and keep sessions short. If resistance continues, consult a certified professional dog trainer or veterinarian for behavior modification techniques. Never force the brush.

Are there any ingredients I should avoid in dog toothpaste?

Yes, avoid toothpastes containing xylitol, fluoride, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), and artificial sweeteners. Xylitol is toxic to dogs, causing rapid insulin release and hypoglycemia. Fluoride can cause stomach upset, and SLS can irritate gums. Stick to products with natural, dog-safe ingredients like enzymes, aloe vera, or coconut oil.

How can I tell if my Basset Hound has dental disease?

Signs of dental disease include bad breath, yellow or brown tartar on teeth, red or swollen gums, difficulty eating, pawing at the mouth, and drooling more than usual. Basset Hounds are prone to periodontal disease, so regular veterinary dental checkups are important. If you notice any symptoms, consult your veterinarian.

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

Baking soda is not recommended for dog toothpaste. It is abrasive and can wear down enamel over time. Additionally, it can upset a dog's stomach if swallowed. Stick to formulated dog toothpastes that are safe and effective. For a natural option, consider products with coconut oil or green tea extract.

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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