🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

Picking Dog Toothpaste for Boston Terriers

Boston Terriers need special dental care. We compared 5 enzymatic toothpastes to fight plaque, with Virbac C.E.T. Poultry as our top pick for brachycephalic breeds.

PE
ProPawPicks Editorial Team
ProPawPicks Reviewer
Updated

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🐾New to the breed? Read our full Boston Terrier breed guide for temperament, care, health and lifespan. Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste, Poultry Flavor ★ Top Pick: Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste, Poultry Flavor Check Price on Amazon →
80%
of dogs over 3 have dental disease
2-3x
per week recommended brushing minimum
4.5
average rating of top picks
5+
enzymatic toothpaste options available
⚡ Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste, Poultry Flavor. This toothpaste is VOHC-accepted and uses dual-enzyme system to reduce plaque and tartar.
  • Best Budget: Petrodex Enzymatic Toothpaste, Poultry Flavor. Petrodex offers an enzymatic formula at a lower price point.
  • Best for Sensitive Gums: Burt's Bees for Dogs Toothpaste, Natural with Peppermint. Made with natural ingredients like peppermint oil and green tea extract, this toothpaste i.
  • Best for Tartar Control: Arm & Hammer for Pets Tartar Control Toothpaste, Beef Flavor. This toothpaste uses baking soda to help neutralize odors and control tartar.
  • Best Flavor Acceptance: Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Dog Toothpaste, Peanut Butter Flavor. With a peanut butter flavor that most dogs love, this toothpaste makes brushing easier.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

ProductBest For
Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste, Poultry F… Best Overall Check price →
Petrodex Enzymatic Toothpaste, Poultry Flavor Best Budget Check price →
Burt's Bees for Dogs Toothpaste, Natural with… Best for Sensitive Gums Check price →
Arm & Hammer for Pets Tartar Control Toothpas… Best for Tartar Control Check price →
Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Dog Toothpaste, P… Best Flavor Acceptance Check price →

Quick answer

The best dog toothpaste for Boston Terriers is the Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste in poultry flavor. It uses dual-enzyme technology to break down plaque and tartar without foaming, which is ideal for flat-faced breeds. For a budget-friendly option with natural ingredients, try Petrodex Enzymatic Toothpaste. If your Boston has sensitive gums, Burt’s Bees for Dogs Toothpaste is a gentle choice.

What to consider for Dog Toothpaste For Boston Terriers

Boston Terriers are brachycephalic, meaning they have short snouts and crowded teeth. This makes them prone to dental issues like plaque buildup, bad breath, and periodontal disease. Choose a toothpaste that is enzymatic to help break down plaque, and avoid foaming formulas that can be hard for Bostons to swallow. Also consider flavor: poultry or peanut butter are often preferred. 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)

When selecting a grooming product for your Boston Terrier, consider their short, smooth coat which sheds moderately. For brushes, a soft bristle brush or rubber curry comb works well. For shampoos, look for gentle, dog-safe ingredients with a pH balanced for dogs (around 6.5 to 7.5) to avoid skin irritation. For clippers, choose low-noise models with ceramic blades to reduce anxiety. For wipes, opt for hypoallergenic, alcohol-free formulas. Ease of use is also important, as Bostons can be wiggly during grooming.

How we chose these picks

  • Researched top-selling dog toothpastes on Amazon and pet retailer sites
  • Evaluated ingredient safety, focusing on enzymatic formulas and natural options
  • Considered suitability for brachycephalic breeds (no foaming, easy to swallow)
  • Read verified customer reviews for real-world effectiveness and palatability
  • Checked for VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) acceptance where available
  • Compared price per ounce to ensure value
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission

What to avoid

  • Human toothpaste: contains xylitol and fluoride, which are toxic to dogs
  • Foaming agents like sodium lauryl sulfate: can cause stomach upset in small breeds
  • Harsh flavors like mint or cinnamon: may deter your Boston from brushing
  • Toothbrushes with hard bristles: can damage sensitive gums
  • Neglecting to brush regularly: daily brushing is ideal for dental health

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

Why this matters

Boston Terriers have a higher risk of dental disease due to their brachycephalic anatomy, making enzymatic toothpaste a crucial part of their oral care routine.

The Options

Types Explained

Enzymatic Toothpaste

Contains enzymes that chemically break down plaque and tartar. Most effective for daily use. Often VOHC-accepted.

Best for: Dogs with existing plaque buildup or bad breath.

Natural Toothpaste

Made with plant-based ingredients like coconut oil, baking soda, or essential oils. Gentle and free from artificial additives.

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

Dental Wipes

Pre-moistened wipes that you rub on teeth and gums. Easy to use but less effective than brushing.

Best for: Dogs that resist brushing or for quick cleanups.

Water Additives

Liquid added to drinking water to help reduce plaque and freshen breath. No brushing required.

Best for: Supplement to brushing for dogs that won't tolerate toothpaste.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste, Poultry Flavor
Best Overall

Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste, Poultry Flavor

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This toothpaste is VOHC-accepted and uses dual-enzyme system to reduce plaque and tartar. It does not foam, making it safe for flat-faced breeds like Boston Terriers. The poultry flavor is well-accepted. However, some dogs may not like the taste, and it is pricier than some alternatives.

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#2
Petrodex Enzymatic Toothpaste, Poultry Flavor
Best Budget

Petrodex Enzymatic Toothpaste, Poultry Flavor

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Petrodex offers an enzymatic formula at a lower price point. It contains a natural enzyme system that helps control plaque and tartar. It is also non-foaming. The main limitation is that it may be less effective than premium brands, and the flavor might not appeal to all dogs.

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#3
Burt's Bees for Dogs Toothpaste, Natural with Peppermint
Best for Sensitive Gums

Burt's Bees for Dogs Toothpaste, Natural with Peppermint

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Made with natural ingredients like peppermint oil and green tea extract, this toothpaste is gentle on gums. It is free from artificial flavors, preservatives, and foaming agents. However, it is not enzymatic, so it relies on mechanical brushing, and the peppermint flavor may be too strong for some dogs.

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#4
Arm & Hammer for Pets Tartar Control Toothpaste, Beef Flavor
Best for Tartar Control

Arm & Hammer for Pets Tartar Control Toothpaste, Beef Flavor

View on Amazon

This toothpaste uses baking soda to help neutralize odors and control tartar. It is enzymatic and non-foaming. The beef flavor is appealing to many dogs. A downside is that some owners report the paste is watery, and it may not be as effective as VOHC-accepted products.

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#5
Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Dog Toothpaste, Peanut Butter Flavor
Best Flavor Acceptance

Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Dog Toothpaste, Peanut Butter Flavor

View on Amazon

With a peanut butter flavor that most dogs love, this toothpaste makes brushing easier. It contains Denta-C enzyme system to fight plaque. It is also free from xylitol and foaming agents. The limitation is that it may not be as concentrated as other enzymatic pastes, requiring more product per use.

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Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Enzymatic vs. Non-Enzymatic

Enzymatic toothpastes contain enzymes like glucose oxidase that help break down plaque and bacteria. They are generally more effective for dental health. Non-enzymatic options rely on mechanical action and natural ingredients, which can be gentler but less potent.

02

Flavor Palatability

Boston Terriers can be picky. Common flavors include poultry, beef, peanut butter, and mint. Choose a flavor your dog enjoys to make brushing easier. Avoid strong mint or cinnamon that may deter them.

03

Foaming Action

Foaming toothpastes can cause drooling and stomach upset in brachycephalic breeds. Look for non-foaming formulas that are safe to swallow. Most dog toothpastes are non-foaming, but always check the label.

04

VOHC Acceptance

The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) accepts products that meet standards for plaque and tartar control. VOHC-accepted toothpastes are proven effective. While not essential, it adds credibility.

05

Ingredients and Safety

Avoid xylitol, fluoride, and artificial preservatives. Look for natural ingredients like aloe vera, green tea, or baking soda. Ensure the toothpaste is specifically formulated for dogs.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Brushing Technique

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or finger brush. Apply a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Brush in circular motions along the gumline. Aim for 30 seconds per side. Start slowly and reward your dog.

Frequency

Ideally brush daily. At minimum, brush 2-3 times per week. Consistency is key for preventing dental disease. If your Boston resists, try dental wipes or water additives as supplements.

Signs of Dental Problems

Watch for bad breath, yellow/brown tartar, red or bleeding gums, difficulty eating, or pawing at the mouth. If you notice these, consult your veterinarian for a dental checkup.

Pro tip

To make brushing easier, let your Boston Terrier lick a small amount of toothpaste off the brush first, then gradually introduce brushing motions. Reward with a treat after each session.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I brush my Boston Terrier's teeth?
Daily brushing is ideal for preventing plaque and tartar buildup. Boston Terriers are prone to dental issues due to their crowded teeth. If daily is not possible, aim for at least 2-3 times per week. Consistency is more important than frequency. Use a dog-specific toothpaste and a soft brush. Start with short sessions and gradually increase as your dog gets used to it.
Can I use human toothpaste for my Boston Terrier?
No, never use human toothpaste for dogs. Human toothpaste contains xylitol, which is toxic to dogs, and fluoride, which can cause stomach upset. It also foams, which can be hard for brachycephalic breeds like Boston Terriers to swallow. Always use a toothpaste formulated for dogs, which is safe to swallow and often enzymatic.
What is the best flavor of toothpaste for Boston Terriers?
Boston Terriers often prefer poultry, beef, or peanut butter flavors. Mint or cinnamon flavors may be too strong and deter them. Since taste preferences vary, try a few flavors to see what your dog likes. Many enzymatic toothpastes come in poultry flavor, which is widely accepted. Avoid artificial sweeteners like xylitol.
Are enzymatic toothpastes better than natural ones?
Enzymatic toothpastes are generally more effective at breaking down plaque and tartar because they contain active enzymes that chemically target bacteria. Natural toothpastes rely on mechanical brushing and ingredients like baking soda or coconut oil. For dogs with existing dental issues, enzymatic is recommended. For maintenance, natural can be sufficient if brushed thoroughly.
My Boston Terrier has bad breath. Will toothpaste help?
Yes, regular brushing with a dog toothpaste can significantly reduce bad breath by removing plaque and bacteria that cause odor. However, persistent bad breath may indicate dental disease or other health issues. If brushing does not improve breath, consult your vet for a dental exam. Also consider dental chews or water additives as supplements.
Can I use a finger brush instead of a toothbrush?
Yes, finger brushes are a good alternative, especially for dogs that are nervous about a traditional brush. They allow you to feel the teeth and gums. However, they may not clean as effectively as a toothbrush with angled bristles. For thorough cleaning, use a small-headed toothbrush designed for dogs. Finger brushes are great for introducing brushing.
Is it safe to swallow dog toothpaste?
Yes, dog toothpaste is formulated to be safe if swallowed. Unlike human toothpaste, it does not contain foaming agents or toxic ingredients. Enzymatic toothpastes are designed to be ingested in small amounts. However, excessive consumption may cause mild stomach upset. Always use the recommended amount (pea-sized).
What should I do if my Boston Terrier refuses to have its teeth brushed?
Start slowly by letting your dog taste the toothpaste from your finger. Then introduce a finger brush or soft toothbrush gradually. Use positive reinforcement with treats and praise. Keep sessions short and end on a positive note. If resistance continues, try dental wipes or water additives as alternatives. Consult a professional trainer if needed.
How do I choose the right toothbrush for my Boston Terrier?
Choose a toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles to fit your Boston's small mouth. Finger brushes are also suitable. Avoid hard bristles that can damage gums. Some toothbrushes have angled handles for easier reach. For puppies, start with a finger brush. Replace the toothbrush every 3-4 months or when bristles fray.
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.
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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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Sources and further reading

Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.