🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

Dog Toothpaste for Shih Tzus, Compared

Shih Tzus are prone to dental disease; we compared the top enzymatic toothpastes like Virbac C.E.T. and more to keep your dog's teeth healthy in 2026.

ProPawPicks Editorial Team

ProPawPicks Reviewer

Updated

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

★ Top Pick: Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste

80%

of dogs over 3 have dental disease

2-3x

per week brushing recommended

5-10

minutes per brushing session

VOHC

seal indicates proven efficacy

⚡ Key takeaways

Best Overall: Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste. This enzymatic toothpaste is VOHC-accepted and proven to reduce plaque and tartar.
Best for Sensitive Gums: Burt's Bees for Dogs Natural Toothpaste. Made with natural ingredients like peppermint and green tea, this toothpaste is gentle on.
Best Budget: Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Tartar Remover. Affordable and widely available, this toothpaste helps remove tartar with its dual-enzyme.
Best for Plaque Control: Petsmile Professional Pet Toothpaste. Petsmile is the only toothpaste with VOHC acceptance for plaque and tartar control.
Best for Fresh Breath: Arm & Hammer for Pets Tartar Control Toothpaste. Baking soda formula neutralizes odors and helps remove plaque.

Quick answer

Our top pick is the Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste for its proven enzymatic formula that fights plaque and tartar without harsh abrasives. It comes in poultry and malt flavors that Shih Tzus love. For a budget-friendly option, try Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Tartar Remover. If your dog has sensitive gums, Burt’s Bees for Dogs Natural Toothpaste is a gentle choice.

What to consider for Dog Toothpaste For Shih Tzus

Shih Tzus have small mouths and are prone to periodontal disease. Their crowded teeth trap food and bacteria, so daily brushing is essential. Choose a toothpaste with enzymes that break down plaque, and avoid foaming agents like sodium lauryl sulfate, which can upset their stomach. The flavor matters too: poultry or malt flavors are more appealing than mint. Always use a dog-specific toothpaste, as human toothpaste contains xylitol or fluoride that is toxic to dogs.

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

For Shih Tzus, look for a toothpaste that matches their coat type? Actually, toothpaste is not about coat. But for dental care, consider: enzymatic action for plaque control, a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for small mouths, and a palatable flavor. Avoid toothpastes with baking soda or peroxide, which can be too harsh. Also, check for the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) seal of approval for proven efficacy.

How we chose these picks

Evaluated ingredient safety for small breeds prone to swallowing toothpaste.
Prioritized enzymatic formulas that break down plaque without scrubbing.
Checked for VOHC acceptance or clinical studies supporting efficacy.
Considered flavor palatability for picky Shih Tzus.
Reviewed customer feedback on ease of use and results.
Ensured products are free from xylitol, fluoride, and harsh abrasives.
Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

Human toothpaste: contains xylitol (toxic) or fluoride (harmful if swallowed).
Foaming agents like sodium lauryl sulfate: can cause stomach upset.
Harsh abrasives like baking soda: can wear down enamel.
Mint or cinnamon flavors: often disliked by dogs.
Toothpastes without enzymatic action: less effective for plaque control.

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

Sources and further reading

At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Product	Best For
Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste	Best Overall	Check price →
Burt's Bees for Dogs Natural Toothpaste	Best for Sensitive Gums	Check price →
Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Tartar Remover	Best Budget	Check price →
Petsmile Professional Pet Toothpaste	Best for Plaque Control	Check price →
Arm & Hammer for Pets Tartar Control Toothpas…	Best for Fresh Breath	Check price →

Why this matters

Shih Tzus have a high risk of periodontal disease due to their brachycephalic skull shape and crowded teeth, making daily brushing with an enzymatic toothpaste essential for preventing tooth loss.

The Options

Types Explained

Enzymatic Toothpaste

Contains enzymes that chemically break down plaque and bacteria. Often VOHC-accepted. Best for daily use and prevention.

Best for: Dogs with moderate to high plaque buildup

Natural Toothpaste

Made with plant-based ingredients like baking soda, coconut oil, or essential oils. Gentler but may lack strong plaque control.

Best for: Dogs with sensitive gums or allergies to chemicals

Dental Gel

A gel consistency that can be applied without a toothbrush. Often contains chlorhexidine for antibacterial action.

Key Buying Factors

Enzymatic vs. Non-Enzymatic

Enzymatic toothpastes contain enzymes like glucose oxidase that break down plaque and bacteria. They are more effective for preventing tartar. Non-enzymatic options rely on abrasives or natural ingredients, which may be gentler but less potent.

Flavor Palatability

Shih Tzus can be picky. Poultry, malt, and peanut flavors are usually well-received. Avoid mint or cinnamon, which dogs often dislike. A flavor your dog enjoys makes brushing easier.

Safety of Ingredients

Never use human toothpaste. Look for dog-specific formulas free from xylitol, fluoride, and sodium lauryl sulfate. Natural ingredients like aloe vera or green tea can soothe gums.

VOHC Acceptance

The Veterinary Oral Health Council awards its seal to products that meet rigorous standards for plaque and tartar control. Choosing a VOHC-accepted toothpaste ensures proven efficacy.

Texture and Consistency

Some toothpastes are paste-like, others are gel. Gels may be easier to apply but can be less effective at adhering to teeth. Pastes often contain mild abrasives for mechanical cleaning.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Brushing Technique

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or finger brush. Lift your Shih Tzu's lip and brush in circular motions along the gumline. Focus on the back teeth where plaque accumulates. Aim for 30 seconds per side.

Frequency

Ideally brush daily, but at least 2-3 times per week. Consistency is more important than duration. Start slowly and reward with treats to build a positive association.

Introducing Toothpaste

Let your dog lick a small amount of toothpaste from your finger first. Gradually introduce the brush. Use a flavored toothpaste they enjoy. Never force the brush; take breaks if needed.

Pro tip

To make brushing easier, use a finger brush designed for small dogs and let your Shih Tzu lick the toothpaste off first to get used to the taste before inserting the brush.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I brush my Shih Tzu's teeth?

Ideally daily, but at least 2-3 times per week. Shih Tzus are prone to dental disease due to their small mouths and crowded teeth. Daily brushing removes plaque before it hardens into tartar. If you cannot brush daily, aim for every other day. Consistency matters more than duration. Start with short sessions and gradually increase.

Can I use human toothpaste for my dog?

No, never use human toothpaste. It contains xylitol, which is toxic to dogs, and fluoride, which can cause stomach upset if swallowed. Human toothpaste also foams, which dogs dislike and may lead to vomiting. Always use a dog-specific toothpaste that is safe to swallow.

What flavor toothpaste do Shih Tzus prefer?

Shih Tzus generally prefer savory flavors like poultry, beef, or malt. Avoid mint or cinnamon, which are common in human toothpaste and often disliked by dogs. Some dogs enjoy peanut butter or vanilla flavors. Experiment with small samples to find what your dog likes.

Is enzymatic toothpaste better than natural?

Enzymatic toothpastes are generally more effective at breaking down plaque because they contain enzymes that chemically target bacteria. They are often VOHC-accepted. Natural toothpastes rely on abrasives or essential oils, which can be gentler but less potent. For dogs with heavy plaque, enzymatic is recommended.

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. Brushing mechanically removes plaque, while additives work chemically. Use both for best results. Always follow product instructions and ensure the additive is safe for dogs.

What should I do if my dog resists brushing?

Start slowly. Let your dog taste the toothpaste from your finger. Gradually introduce a finger brush, then a toothbrush. Use positive reinforcement with treats and praise. Keep sessions short. If your dog still resists, try a dental gel that can be applied without a brush, or consult a veterinarian for alternatives.

Are there any ingredients to avoid in dog toothpaste?

Avoid xylitol, fluoride, sodium lauryl sulfate, and artificial sweeteners. Also avoid harsh abrasives like baking soda in large amounts, as they can wear down enamel. Stick to toothpastes with safe, dog-friendly ingredients like enzymes, aloe vera, or coconut oil.

How do I know if my Shih Tzu has dental problems?

Signs include bad breath, yellow or brown tartar on teeth, red or bleeding gums, difficulty eating, pawing at the mouth, or drooling. Shih Tzus may hide pain, so regular check-ups are important. If you notice any symptoms, consult your veterinarian.

Can dental treats replace brushing?

Dental treats can help reduce plaque but are not as effective as brushing. They often rely on texture or enzymes to clean teeth, but they cannot reach all surfaces. Use treats as a supplement, not a replacement. Always choose treats approved by the VOHC for dental health.

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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