🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

Which Dog Toothpaste Is Best for Bernese Mountain Dogs?

The best toothpaste for Bernese Mountain Dogs uses enzymatic action to break down plaque without rinsing. Try Vet's Best Enzymatic formula for safe, effective dental care.

ProPawPicks Editorial Team

ProPawPicks Reviewer

Updated

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🐾New to the breed? Read our full Bernese Mountain Dog breed guide for temperament, care, health and lifespan.

★ Top Pick: Vet's Best Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste

80%

of dogs show improved breath within 2 weeks

enzymes in best formulas

2-3 times per week

recommended brushing frequency

10+ pounds

typical weight of a Bernese Mountain Dog's mouth

⚡ Key takeaways

Best Overall: Vet's Best Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste. This triple-enzyme formula effectively breaks down plaque and tartar without foaming, maki.
Best Budget: Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Tartar Control Dog Toothpaste. An affordable enzymatic toothpaste that helps reduce tartar buildup.
Best for Plaque Control: Petsmile Professional Pet Toothpaste. Veterinarian-formulated with Calprox, which helps break down plaque.
Best Value: Arm & Hammer for Pets Tartar Control Dog Toothpaste. Contains baking soda to help neutralize odors and gently clean teeth.
Best Flavor Variety: TropiClean Fresh Breath Dog Toothpaste. Offers multiple flavors like vanilla mint and peanut butter, which many dogs love.

Quick answer

Our top pick is Vet’s Best Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste because it uses a triple-enzyme formula that effectively breaks down plaque and tartar without foaming, making it safe for Bernese Mountain Dogs who may swallow toothpaste. For a budget-friendly option, Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Tartar Control offers a similar enzymatic action at a lower price, though it contains a mild foaming agent. If your Berner prefers a poultry flavor, Petsmile Professional Pet Toothpaste is a great choice, but it’s pricier.

What to consider for Dog Toothpaste For Bernese Mountain Dogs

Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to dental issues due to their large mouths and tendency to drool. Look for enzymatic toothpaste that doesn’t require rinsing, as these dogs often swallow toothpaste. Avoid products with xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. Flavors like poultry or beef are typically preferred over mint. Also consider the texture: paste or gel? Pastes cling better to teeth, while gels may be easier to apply for beginners.

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

For toothpaste, the key factors are enzymatic action (to break down plaque), safe ingredients (no xylitol, no harsh abrasives), palatable flavor (to encourage cooperation), and ease of use (non-foaming formula to avoid upset stomach). Since Bernese Mountain Dogs have a thick double coat, dental wipes can be a useful supplement for quick cleanings between brushings.

How we chose these picks

Evaluated enzymatic activity and ingredient safety based on published veterinary guidelines.
Compared customer ratings and reviews for real-world effectiveness.
Considered flavor palatability for large breed dogs.
Checked for absence of xylitol and other toxic additives.
Assessed value for money based on price per ounce.
Included a range of price points and formulations.
Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

Human toothpaste: contains fluoride and foaming agents that can cause stomach upset.
Toothpastes with xylitol: even small amounts can be lethal to dogs.
Harsh abrasives like baking soda or charcoal: can damage enamel over time.
Toothpastes with strong mint or citrus flavors: often disliked by dogs.

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

Sources and further reading

At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Product	Best For
Vet's Best Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste	Best Overall	Check price →
Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Tartar Control Do…	Best Budget	Check price →
Petsmile Professional Pet Toothpaste	Best for Plaque Control	Check price →
Arm & Hammer for Pets Tartar Control Dog Toot…	Best Value	Check price →
TropiClean Fresh Breath Dog Toothpaste	Best Flavor Variety	Check price →

Why this matters

Enzymatic toothpaste is the most effective and safe choice for Bernese Mountain Dogs because it breaks down plaque without requiring rinsing, reducing the risk of stomach upset from swallowed foam.

The Options

Types Explained

Enzymatic Toothpaste

Contains enzymes that chemically break down plaque and tartar. Safe to swallow and most effective for daily use.

Best for: Dogs with mild to moderate tartar buildup and owners who brush regularly.

Non-Enzymatic Toothpaste

Relies on mild abrasives and natural ingredients like baking soda or coconut oil to clean teeth.

Best for: Dogs with sensitive gums or those who dislike enzymatic formulas.

Dental Wipes

Pre-moistened wipes with cleaning agents that can be rubbed on teeth and gums. Less effective than brushing but convenient.

Key Buying Factors

Enzymatic Formula

Look for toothpaste with enzymes like glucose oxidase and lactoperoxidase that break down plaque without harsh scrubbing.

Non-Foaming

Dogs can't rinse and spit, so a non-foaming paste prevents stomach upset if swallowed.

Safe Ingredients

Avoid xylitol, fluoride, and artificial sweeteners. Check for natural preservatives like vitamin E.

Palatable Flavor

Poultry, beef, or peanut butter flavors are typically more appealing to dogs than mint or citrus.

Ease of Use

A tube with a narrow opening or a pump dispenser makes application easier, especially for large mouths.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Brushing Technique

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or finger brush. Apply a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and brush in circular motions along the gumline. Focus on the back teeth where plaque accumulates.

Frequency

Aim to brush your Berner's teeth at least 2 to 3 times per week. Daily brushing is ideal for preventing periodontal disease.

Introducing Toothpaste

Let your dog taste a small amount of toothpaste first. Gradually introduce the brush, rewarding with praise. Keep sessions short and positive.

Pro tip

To make brushing easier, use a finger brush initially to get your Berner accustomed to the sensation, then switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush for better cleaning.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I brush my Bernese Mountain Dog's teeth?

Ideally, brush your Berner's teeth daily to prevent plaque buildup. However, 2 to 3 times per week is a realistic minimum. Consistency is more important than frequency. Start slowly and build up to a routine. Regular brushing helps prevent bad breath, gum disease, and tooth loss, which is especially important for large breeds like Bernese Mountain Dogs that are prone to dental issues.

Can I use human toothpaste for my dog?

No, never use human toothpaste for dogs. Human toothpaste contains fluoride, xylitol, and foaming agents like sodium lauryl sulfate, which are toxic or harmful to dogs if swallowed. Dogs cannot rinse and spit, so they ingest the toothpaste. Always use a dog-specific enzymatic toothpaste that is safe to swallow and designed for canine dental health.

What ingredients should I avoid in dog toothpaste?

Avoid toothpaste containing xylitol, a sugar substitute that is highly toxic to dogs and can cause rapid insulin release, leading to hypoglycemia and liver failure. Also avoid fluoride, artificial sweeteners, and harsh abrasives like baking soda or charcoal, which can damage enamel. Stick to natural, enzymatic formulas with safe ingredients like aloe vera, vitamin E, and enzymes.

My Bernese Mountain Dog hates the taste of toothpaste. What can I do?

Try a different flavor. Many dogs prefer poultry, beef, or peanut butter flavors over mint or citrus. You can also let your dog lick a small amount off your finger before brushing. Some brands offer sample sizes. If your dog still resists, consider a dental spray or wipe as an alternative, though brushing is most effective.

Is enzymatic toothpaste better than non-enzymatic?

Yes, enzymatic toothpaste is generally more effective because it contains enzymes that chemically break down plaque and tartar, reducing the need for mechanical scrubbing. Non-enzymatic toothpastes rely on mild abrasives, which can be less effective and may wear down enamel over time. Enzymatic formulas are also safer if swallowed and often contain additional antibacterial agents.

Can dental chews replace brushing?

Dental chews can help reduce plaque and tartar, but they are not a substitute for brushing. Chews only clean the surfaces they contact, missing the gumline and back teeth. Brushing remains the gold standard for dental care. Use chews as a supplement, not a replacement. Look for chews with the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal.

How do I brush a Bernese Mountain Dog's teeth if they resist?

Start by letting your dog taste the toothpaste from your finger. Then gently lift their lip and rub the paste on their teeth with your finger. Gradually introduce a finger brush or soft toothbrush. Use positive reinforcement with treats and praise. Keep sessions short, just a few seconds initially, and gradually increase. If your dog is very resistant, consult a veterinarian or professional groomer for tips.

What is the best way to prevent dental disease in Bernese Mountain Dogs?

The best prevention is a combination of regular brushing with enzymatic toothpaste, annual veterinary dental checkups, and providing appropriate dental chews or toys. A healthy diet also plays a role. Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to periodontal disease due to their large mouths and deep gum pockets, so consistent care is crucial.

Are there any dental health issues specific to Bernese Mountain Dogs?

Bernese Mountain Dogs can be prone to periodontal disease, tooth fractures from chewing hard objects, and retained baby teeth. Their large mouths have deep gum pockets that trap food and bacteria. Regular brushing and dental checkups are important. Also, avoid giving them hard bones or antlers that could crack teeth.

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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