🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

Expert Picks: Best Dog Toothpaste for Tartar Control 2026

Vet recommended enzymatic dog toothpastes for tartar removal. Vet's Best leads our list with VOHC seal. Protect your dog's teeth.

ProPawPicks Editorial Team

ProPawPicks Reviewer

Updated

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★ Top Pick: Vet's Best Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste

70%

Reduction in plaque with daily brushing

Enzymes typically used in effective formulas

2 min

Recommended brushing time per session

100%

Should be free of xylitol and fluoride

⚡ Key takeaways

Best Overall: Vet's Best Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste. This enzymatic toothpaste uses a triple-enzyme formula to break down plaque and tartar eff.
Best for Sensitive Gums: Burt's Bees Natural Dog Toothpaste. Made with natural ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile, this toothpaste soothes sensit.
Best Budget: Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Dog Toothpaste. This affordable option contains Denta-C enzymes to fight plaque and tartar.
Best VOHC Accepted: Petsmile Professional Pet Toothpaste. Petsmile is the only toothpaste with the VOHC seal for plaque and tartar control.
Best No-Brush Option: TropiClean Fresh Breath No Brushing Dental Gel. This gel can be applied directly to teeth or gums without brushing, making it ideal for do.

Quick answer

The best dog toothpaste for tartar control is Vet’s Best Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste because it combines triple-enzyme action with a poultry flavor dogs love, making brushing easier. If your dog has sensitive gums, Burt’s Bees Natural Dog Toothpaste is a great alternative with soothing aloe vera. For a budget-friendly option, Nylabone Advanced Oral Care offers effective tartar control at a lower price.

What to consider for Dog Toothpaste For Tartar Control

When choosing a toothpaste for tartar control, look for enzymatic formulas that break down plaque and prevent mineralization. The paste should be dog-safe, meaning no xylitol or fluoride, which are toxic to dogs. Palatability is key since dogs need to accept the taste for regular brushing. Also consider the texture: some pastes are thicker and cling better to teeth, while others are more liquid. Finally, choose a product with the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal if possible, as it indicates proven efficacy.

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

For dog toothpaste, the grooming product is the toothpaste itself. Look for enzymatic action (glucose oxidase, lactoperoxidase) to fight tartar. Ensure the formula is pH-balanced for dogs (around 7.5) and free from harsh abrasives that can damage enamel. The flavor should be appealing to dogs, such as poultry, peanut butter, or mint. Also consider the packaging: a tube with a flip cap is convenient for daily use. Avoid products with artificial colors or preservatives.

How we chose these picks

Evaluated enzymatic activity and VOHC acceptance where available.
Reviewed ingredient lists for safety, excluding xylitol, fluoride, and harsh abrasives.
Considered palatability based on flavor options and customer feedback on acceptance.
Checked for ease of use, including tube design and paste consistency.
Prioritized brands with transparent sourcing and manufacturing practices.
Included products at various price points to suit different budgets.
Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

Human toothpaste: contains fluoride and xylitol, both toxic to dogs.
Products with harsh abrasives like baking soda or silica that can wear down enamel.
Toothpastes with artificial sweeteners (xylitol) or alcohol.
Flavors that dogs dislike, such as strong mint or citrus, which may discourage brushing.

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

Sources and further reading

At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Product	Best For
Vet's Best Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste	Best Overall	Check price →
Burt's Bees Natural Dog Toothpaste	Best for Sensitive Gums	Check price →
Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Dog Toothpaste	Best Budget	Check price →
Petsmile Professional Pet Toothpaste	Best VOHC Accepted	Check price →
TropiClean Fresh Breath No Brushing Dental Gel	Best No-Brush Option	Check price →

Why this matters

Enzymatic toothpastes are the most effective for tartar control because they chemically break down plaque before it mineralizes. The VOHC seal is a reliable indicator of clinical efficacy, but only a few dog toothpastes currently hold it.

The Options

Types Explained

Enzymatic Toothpaste

Contains enzymes that chemically break down plaque and tartar. Most effective for daily use and recommended by veterinarians.

Best for: Dogs with moderate to heavy tartar buildup and owners committed to daily brushing.

Natural Toothpaste

Made with plant-based ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and neem. Often free from artificial additives.

Best for: Dogs with sensitive gums or allergies, and owners preferring natural products.

No-Brush Dental Gel

A gel applied directly to teeth or gums without a brush. Relies on enzymes and mechanical action from licking.

Key Buying Factors

Enzymatic Formula

Look for toothpastes containing enzymes like glucose oxidase and lactoperoxidase, which help break down plaque and prevent tartar formation. These are more effective than non-enzymatic pastes.

Palatability

Dogs need to accept the taste for regular brushing. Popular flavors include poultry, peanut butter, and malt. Avoid strong mint or citrus flavors that dogs may dislike.

Safety Ingredients

Ensure the toothpaste is free from xylitol, fluoride, and artificial sweeteners. These can be toxic to dogs. Look for natural ingredients like aloe vera, neem, or baking soda in safe amounts.

VOHC Acceptance

The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal indicates that the product has been proven effective in clinical trials. While not essential, it adds confidence in the product's efficacy.

Texture and Application

Some pastes are thick and cling to teeth, while others are more liquid. Consider your dog's cooperation level and whether you prefer a gel, paste, or spray. Easy-to-squeeze tubes or pump bottles can make application easier.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Daily Brushing Routine

Brush your dog's teeth daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush or finger brush. Apply a pea-sized amount of enzymatic toothpaste. Focus on the outer surfaces of the teeth, especially the back molars where tartar accumulates. Gradually introduce brushing to make it a positive experience.

Introducing Toothpaste

Let your dog taste a small amount of toothpaste from your finger first. Then, gently lift the lip and brush a few teeth. Reward with praise or a treat. Increase the number of teeth brushed each session until your dog accepts full brushing.

Monitoring Oral Health

Regularly check your dog's teeth for signs of tartar, bad breath, or red gums. Schedule annual veterinary dental cleanings. If you notice bleeding or excessive tartar, consult your vet. Use dental chews or toys as supplements, not replacements for brushing.

Pro tip

Start brushing your dog's teeth gradually: let them taste the toothpaste, then lift the lip for a few seconds, and reward. Increase the duration over a week. This builds positive association and makes daily brushing easier.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I brush my dog's teeth for tartar control?

Ideally, brush your dog's teeth daily to prevent plaque from mineralizing into tartar. If daily is not possible, aim for at least three times per week. Consistency is more important than duration; even a quick 30-second brush is beneficial. Daily brushing with an enzymatic toothpaste can reduce tartar buildup by up to 70%.

Can I use human toothpaste for my dog?

No, human toothpaste often contains xylitol, fluoride, or foaming agents that are toxic to dogs. Xylitol can cause rapid insulin release and hypoglycemia, while fluoride can lead to digestive upset or toxicity. Always use a toothpaste specifically formulated for dogs, which is safe to swallow and has a dog-friendly flavor.

What ingredients should I look for in a dog toothpaste?

Look for enzymatic ingredients like glucose oxidase and lactoperoxidase, which help break down plaque. Natural ingredients such as aloe vera, neem oil, and chamomile can soothe gums. Avoid abrasives like baking soda or silica in high amounts, as they can wear down enamel. Ensure the product is free from xylitol, fluoride, and artificial sweeteners.

Is a no-brush dental gel as effective as toothpaste?

No-brush gels can help reduce bacteria and freshen breath, but they are generally less effective at removing existing plaque and tartar compared to brushing. They work best as a supplement for dogs that resist brushing or for maintenance between brushings. For optimal tartar control, daily brushing with an enzymatic toothpaste is recommended.

My dog hates the taste of toothpaste. What should I do?

Try different flavors such as poultry, peanut butter, or malt. Some brands offer multiple flavors. You can also mix a tiny amount of the toothpaste with a treat or apply it on a toy to get your dog accustomed. Gradually increase the amount. If your dog still refuses, consider a no-brush gel or dental spray as an alternative.

Can dog toothpaste expire?

Yes, dog toothpaste can expire, typically within one to two years from manufacture. Check the expiration date on the tube. Expired toothpaste may lose its enzymatic activity or become less effective. Also, if the texture or smell changes, discard it. Store toothpaste in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Should I use a finger brush or a toothbrush?

Both can be effective. Finger brushes are gentle and allow better control, making them good for nervous dogs or small breeds. Toothbrushes with angled heads and soft bristles can reach back teeth more easily. Choose based on your dog's size and comfort. Some dogs prefer the finger brush because it feels less invasive.

How can I tell if my dog has tartar buildup?

Tartar appears as yellow or brown hard deposits on the teeth, especially along the gumline. Bad breath (halitosis) is a common sign. You may also notice red or swollen gums (gingivitis), bleeding when brushing, or difficulty eating. If you see these signs, consult your veterinarian for a professional cleaning.

Are dental chews enough to control tartar?

Dental chews can help reduce plaque and tartar by mechanical abrasion and some enzymatic action, but they are not a substitute for brushing. Chews are best used as a supplement. Look for chews with the VOHC seal for proven efficacy. However, for significant tartar control, daily brushing remains the gold standard.

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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