🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

Dog Toothbrush For Long Coats 2026: 5 Top Picks

Long coated dogs face higher dental risks as fur traps food near teeth. We compared 5 toothbrushes, including the FURminator Dual Head, designed with longer handles and angled heads for easier access through thick fur.

ProPawPicks Editorial Team

ProPawPicks Reviewer

Updated

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★ Top Pick: FURminator Dual-Head Dog Toothbrush Check Price on Amazon →

Picks Reviewed

2.5

Average Handle Length (inches)

Soft

Bristle Type

$6 to $12

Price Range

⚡ Key takeaways

Best Overall: FURminator Dual-Head Dog Toothbrush. The FURminator Dual-Head Dog Toothbrush features a long handle and an angled head that eas.
Best for Sensitive Skin: Burt's Bees Dog Toothbrush. Burt's Bees Dog Toothbrush is made with soft, rounded bristles that are gentle on sensitiv.
Best Budget: Wahl Dog Toothbrush with Ergonomic Grip. The Wahl Dog Toothbrush offers a cost-effective solution without sacrificing quality.
Best for Large Breeds: Andis Pet Toothbrush. The Andis Pet Toothbrush is designed with a longer handle and a wider head, making it idea.
Best Dual-Action: TropiClean Fresh Breath Toothbrush. TropiClean Fresh Breath Toothbrush features a unique dual-sided head with soft bristles on.

At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Product	Best For
FURminator Dual-Head Dog Toothbrush	Best Overall	Check price →
Burt's Bees Dog Toothbrush	Best for Sensitive Skin	Check price →
Wahl Dog Toothbrush with Ergonomic Grip	Best Budget	Check price →
Andis Pet Toothbrush	Best for Large Breeds	Check price →
TropiClean Fresh Breath Toothbrush	Best Dual-Action	Check price →

Quick answer

The best dog toothbrush for long coats is the FURminator Dual-Head Dog Toothbrush, which features a long handle and angled head to maneuver through heavy fur. For dogs with sensitive gums, the Burt’s Bees Dog Toothbrush offers soft bristles and a gentle design. Budget-conscious owners may prefer the Wahl Dog Toothbrush with a compact head and ergonomic grip.

What to consider for Dog Toothbrush For Long Coats

Long-coated breeds like Golden Retrievers, Collies, and Shih Tzus have dense fur that can obscure the mouth and make brushing difficult. A toothbrush with a longer handle and a smaller, angled head helps reach back molars without pushing through hair. Bristle firmness matters: soft bristles are gentler on gums but may require more strokes, while medium bristles clean more efficiently but can irritate sensitive mouths. Additionally, consider a brush with a non-slip grip, as wet hands and fur can make handling tricky. Some brushes come with dual heads (one for larger teeth, one for smaller) to adapt to different areas of the mouth.

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

When choosing a grooming product for a long-coated dog, match it to the coat type: double coats need deshedding tools, while silky coats benefit from detangling sprays. Use only dog-safe ingredients with a pH suitable for canine skin (around 6.2 to 7.4) to avoid irritation. For clippers, look for high-quality stainless steel blades that stay sharp and run cool; ceramic blades are quieter but can break if dropped. Low noise levels are crucial for nervous dogs, so opt for products labeled as quiet or with variable speed. Ease of use includes ergonomic handles, easy-to-clean parts, and clear instructions.

How we chose these picks

Evaluated handle length and head design for accessibility through long fur
Checked bristle firmness and material for safety and comfort
Reviewed customer feedback on durability and ease of cleaning
Considered brand reputation for pet-safe materials
Compared price points to offer options for different budgets
Ensured each product is widely available on Amazon
Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission

What to avoid

Human toothpaste: contains xylitol and fluoride toxic to dogs; always use enzymatic dog toothpaste
Hard bristles: can damage gums and enamel, especially in small breeds
One-size-fits-all brushes: a large brush may not fit a small mouth, and a small brush may be inefficient for large dogs
Brushes without a guard: some have a stop to prevent over-insertion, reducing gagging risk

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

Why this matters

Long-coated dogs are more prone to dental issues because fur can trap food and bacteria around the mouth, making daily brushing essential. A toothbrush with a longer handle and angled head significantly improves access to teeth through thick fur.

The Options

Types Explained

Dual-Head Toothbrush

Features two different sized heads on one handle, allowing you to switch between cleaning large and small teeth without changing brushes.

Best for: Dogs with varying tooth sizes, such as large breeds with small front teeth.

Angled-Head Toothbrush

Has a head set at an angle to better reach back molars and teeth along the gumline.

Best for: Long-coated dogs where straight brushes struggle to access the mouth.

Finger Toothbrush

A silicone cap that fits over your finger, allowing you to feel the teeth and gums while brushing.

Key Buying Factors

Handle Length

A longer handle helps you reach past the fur to the mouth, especially for breeds with thick neck hair. Look for handles at least 5 inches long.

Head Size and Shape

A smaller, angled head can maneuver around the muzzle and into the back of the mouth. Dual heads offer versatility for different tooth sizes.

Bristle Firmness

Soft bristles are safest for gums, but medium bristles may clean more effectively. Avoid hard bristles that can cause gum recession.

Grip

Non-slip rubber or textured handles prevent the brush from slipping when wet, giving you better control through long hair.

Durability

Brushes with stainless steel or reinforced plastic handles last longer. Replace brushes every 3 to 6 months or when bristles fray.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Daily Brushing Routine

Brush your dog's teeth daily using a dog-specific toothbrush and enzymatic toothpaste. Start slowly, letting your dog taste the toothpaste, then lift the lip and brush in small circles. Focus on the gumline where plaque accumulates.

Cleaning the Brush

Rinse the toothbrush thoroughly after each use to remove toothpaste and debris. Allow it to air dry upright. Replace the brush every 3 months or sooner if bristles become frayed or bent.

Introducing Brushing to a Resistant Dog

Use positive reinforcement: give treats after each session. Start by rubbing a finger with toothpaste on the gums, then gradually introduce the brush. Keep sessions short (30 seconds) and increase as your dog becomes comfortable.

Pro tip

To make brushing easier, use a small amount of toothpaste on the brush and let your dog lick it off first. This helps them associate the brush with a positive experience.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I brush my dog's teeth?

Ideally, brush your dog's teeth daily to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease. If daily brushing is not possible, aim for at least three times per week. Consistency is more important than duration; even a quick 30-second brushing can help. For long-coated dogs, daily brushing also allows you to check for any oral issues hidden by fur.

Can I use a human toothbrush on my dog?

It is not recommended. Human toothbrushes are designed for the shape of human mouths and have harder bristles that can damage dog gums. Dog toothbrushes have softer bristles, longer handles, and angled heads to navigate a dog's mouth and fur. Additionally, human toothpaste contains xylitol and fluoride, which are toxic to dogs.

What type of toothbrush is best for a long-coated dog?

A toothbrush with a long handle and a small, angled head is best for long-coated dogs. The long handle helps you reach past the fur, while the angled head accesses back teeth. Dual-head brushes offer versatility for different tooth sizes. Finger brushes can be useful for puppies but may not reach well through thick fur.

Do I need special toothpaste for my dog?

Yes, always use enzymatic dog toothpaste. These toothpastes are formulated to be safe if swallowed and contain enzymes that help break down plaque. They come in flavors like poultry or peanut butter that dogs enjoy. Never use human toothpaste, as it can cause stomach upset or more serious toxicity.

How do I brush my dog's teeth if they have long fur around the mouth?

Gently hold the fur back with one hand while brushing with the other. You can also use a small hair clip to temporarily hold the fur away from the mouth. Start by lifting the lip and brushing the front teeth, then gradually work toward the back. Take breaks if your dog becomes restless.

What if my dog has sensitive gums or bleeding?

If you notice bleeding, stop brushing and consult your veterinarian. Bleeding can indicate gingivitis or other dental issues. Use a soft-bristled brush and gentle pressure. You can also try a finger brush to better feel the pressure. If sensitivity persists, your vet may recommend a dental cleaning or a special diet.

Can I use a water additive or dental chews instead of brushing?

Water additives and dental chews can help reduce plaque but are not substitutes for brushing. Brushing mechanically removes plaque from the tooth surface, which additives and chews cannot fully achieve. Use them as supplements to a brushing routine, not replacements.

How do I clean my dog's toothbrush?

Rinse the toothbrush under warm water after each use to remove toothpaste and debris. Allow it to air dry in an upright position to prevent bacterial growth. Replace the toothbrush every 3 months or sooner if bristles become frayed. Do not share toothbrushes between dogs to avoid cross-contamination.

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

Start by desensitizing your dog: let them taste the toothpaste from your finger, then gently rub their gums. Gradually introduce the brush, using positive reinforcement like treats and praise. Keep sessions short and end on a positive note. If your dog remains resistant, consult a professional dog trainer or veterinarian for behavior modification techniques.

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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