Why Dog Dental Care Deserves More Attention
When it comes to our dogs, we’ll do anything to keep them happy and healthy - but dental care? It’s often overlooked until there’s a serious issue. The truth is, over 80% of dogs show signs of dental disease by age three. That means the bad breath you’re noticing? Probably more than just “dog breath.”
Dog dental disease doesn’t just stay in the mouth. Left untreated, plaque and tartar can lead to gum infections, tooth loss, and even serious complications in the heart, liver, and kidneys. That’s why daily dental care isn’t optional - it’s essential.
The good news? You don’t need to turn your home into a vet clinic to stay ahead of dental issues. With a combination of brushing, chews, powders, and water additives, even the busiest pet parents can stay on top of their dog’s oral health. At Brindle Pet Supplies, we carry some of the most trusted and effective dental care solutions available in Canada - including customer favourites like ProDen PlaqueOff, Vet’s Best, and Whimzees.
The Silent Threat: What Happens When You Skip Dog Dental Care
You wouldn’t go months without brushing your own teeth… so why do so many dogs go years without dental care?
When plaque builds up on your dog’s teeth, it hardens into tartar, which pushes under the gumline and causes inflammation. The result? Painful infections, receding gums, loose teeth, and bacteria entering the bloodstream. And it all starts silently - often without any visible signs until the damage is done.
Here are a few red flags to watch for:
- Bad breath that lingers even after brushing
- Red or swollen gums
- Yellow or brown buildup on teeth
- Drooling or chewing on one side of the mouth
- Pawing at the face or avoiding food
The biggest challenge? Most dogs are masters at hiding discomfort. That’s why preventative dental care is so important - and easier than you might think with the right tools (and tasty options that dogs actually love).
Brushing: The Gold Standard of Dog Dental Health
Let’s be honest - most dogs aren’t fans of toothbrushes. But if you can make it part of your routine, brushing is hands-down the most effective way to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Even brushing just 3 - 4 times a week can dramatically improve your dog’s dental health.
Here’s how to make brushing a little easier:
- Start slow - Let your dog sniff and lick the toothbrush and paste before diving in.
- Use dog-specific toothpaste - Human toothpaste can be toxic for dogs. Try something like Vet’s Best Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste with soothing aloe and enzymes.
- Make it tasty - Many dog toothpastes come in flavours like chicken, beef, or peanut butter, turning brushing into a treat.
- Stay consistent - Short sessions done regularly work better than a one-off scrub.
At Brindle Pet Supplies, we offer a range of dog-safe toothbrushes and toothpastes to fit your pup’s size and preferences. Whether you’re training a puppy to tolerate brushing or dealing with a senior who needs a gentler touch, there’s a setup that works.
Don’t worry - brushing isn’t the only option. If it’s just not realistic for your lifestyle, there are other equally effective tools to keep your dog’s smile clean and healthy.
Chew Your Way to Healthier Teeth
Not all heroes wear capes - some come in the form of a delicious dog chew.
Chewing is one of the most instinctive (and enjoyable) ways for dogs to clean their teeth. The natural action of gnawing helps scrape away plaque and tartar while also keeping gums stimulated and strong. It’s the perfect combo of health and happiness - and let’s be real, what dog doesn’t love a good chew?
But not all chews are created equal. If you want dental health benefits and clean ingredients, it’s worth being selective.
🦴 Natural Dog Chews
All-natural dog chews like bully sticks, collagen sticks, beef cheeks and esophagus sticks offer more than just entertainment - they’re packed with functional benefits. At Brindle Pet Supplies, we love recommending:
- Purely Paws Collagen Sticks: These Canadian chews are long-lasting and support joint health, skin, and coat, all while gently cleaning the teeth.
- RedBarn Bully Sticks: Single-ingredient and easily digestible, these are a great choice for dogs who love to chew with purpose.
- RedBarn Beef Cheeks: Thick, flavourful, and collagen-rich, these chews work hard on tartar while keeping dogs happily occupied. They come in multiple flavours, Bully, Natural and Chicken/Carrot Glaze.
These chews are great for daily enrichment and make excellent dental aids - especially for dogs who just won’t tolerate brushing or powders.
🪥 Functional Dental Chews
If you're looking for something made specifically for oral health, dental chews are a great go-to. Look for chews that are VOHC-approved, have proven results, and contain clean ingredients.
Some of our customer favourites include:
- ProDen PlaqueOff Dental Bones: Combining the proven power of PlaqueOff powder with a chewy texture, these bones are a double-win for teeth and breath.
- Whimzee’s Dental Bones: Natural, grain-free, and available in fun shapes that promote longer chew time for better cleaning.
- Ark Naturals Brushless Toothpaste Chews: With a soft toothpaste centre and a firm outside layer, these chews clean above and below the gumline.
Want to cover your bases? Rotate between a daily natural chew and a dental chew for full-spectrum oral support.
Dog Dental Power: How Dental Powders Work
For pet parents who want low-effort, high-impact results - dental powders are a game-changer.
These supplements are designed to be added to your dog’s daily meals and work systemically to tackle plaque, tartar, and bad breath at the source. Unlike brushing or chews, powders don’t rely on physical abrasion - they work from the inside out.
Why ProDen PlaqueOff Powder Is the Gold Standard
When it comes to dog dental powders, ProDen PlaqueOff Powder is the most trusted name on the market - and for good reason. This Swedish-made supplement is powered by a unique, clinically proven seaweed called Ascophyllum nodosum, which naturally alters the chemistry of your dog’s saliva to:
- Reduce plaque and tartar buildup
- Freshen breath (even chronic bad breath)
- Promote healthier gums over time
PlaqueOff is especially ideal for senior dogs, small breeds, or pups who won’t tolerate brushing or chewing. It's flavourless, grain-free, and comes in multiple sizes (60 g, 180 g and 420 g) and is suitable for all breed sizes.
It only takes a sprinkle a day, and many pet parents start seeing results within just a few weeks.
Other Dental Powders Worth Exploring
While PlaqueOff leads the pack, other dental powders offer unique benefits:
- Vet’s Best Dental Powder: Made with natural ingredients like brown rice flour and spirulina, this powder includes a powerful blend of enzymes and herbal breath-fresheners. It’s a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or for pet parents who prefer herbal formulas.
- Nature’s Dentist Dog and Cat: This dual-species powder is ideal for multi-pet households. It uses a mix of natural herbs, plant enzymes, and probiotics to help prevent tartar buildup and maintain a balanced oral microbiome - plus it’s easy to sprinkle on both wet and dry food.
All three options are available at Brindle Pet Supplies and offer a no-fuss, effective alternative for maintaining your dog’s dental health - especially when brushing isn’t an option.
Wipe It Down: A Gentle Alternative for Sensitive Mouths
If brushing your dog’s teeth feels like wrestling a greased-up gremlin, dental wipes might be the low-stress solution you’ve been looking for. These pre-moistened wipes are designed to gently remove plaque and bacteria with a quick swipe across the gums and teeth - no toothbrush required.
They’re ideal for dogs who hate brushes but will tolerate a finger near their mouth, and especially handy for senior pups or dogs with dental sensitivities. While wipes don’t penetrate as deeply as brushing, they’re way better than doing nothing and are perfect for maintenance between more thorough cleanings.
Two vet-approved options we love:
- Bluestem Oral Care Dental Wipes – alcohol-free, safe for daily use, and formulated with plaque-fighting ingredients.
- Vet's Best Dental Relief Finger Wipes – easy-to-use, natural formula with aloe and thyme oil for gentle freshness.
They’re compact, travel-friendly, and a great way to get into a dental care routine if you’re just starting out.
Dog Dental Water Additives: Effortless Maintenance Between Brushing
If brushing feels like a battle and chews take time, dog dental water additives might just be your new best friend. These odorless, tasteless solutions are added to your dog’s water bowl daily to help reduce plaque and tartar while freshening their breath - all without lifting a finger.
Look for vet-approved options that fight bacteria and promote long-term oral health. These are a great supplement to brushing, powders, and chews, especially for dogs who are picky or sensitive. While water additives alone won’t replace a full routine, they’re a fantastic in-between step for busy pet parents.
Some great dog dental health solutions to try:
Building Your At-Home Dental Routine
The secret to dog dental success? A routine that works for you. You don’t have to do everything, but doing something consistently will make a huge difference in your dog’s health - and your vet bills.
Here’s a simple weekly structure:
- Daily: Use a dental powder like ProDen PlaqueOff or add a water additive.
- 3 - 4x Weekly: Offer natural chews or dental chews.
- 2 - 3x Weekly: Brush your dog’s teeth if they tolerate it.
- Monthly: Do a full mouth check and look for changes in breath, gums, or tooth color.
Pro tip: Keep products where you’ll remember to use them - on the kitchen counter or near your dog’s food, not buried in a cupboard.
When to See a Vet About Your Dog’s Teeth
Even the best at-home dental routine can’t replace the expertise of your vet. Some signs your dog may need professional help include:
- Bad breath that doesn’t improve
- Red or bleeding gums
- Loose or discolored teeth
- Swelling near the jaw or under the eyes
- Refusal to eat or chew
Annual dental checkups (and cleanings when needed) are crucial, especially as your dog ages. Some smaller breeds or flat-faced dogs may need dental care more often. If you're ever unsure, book a quick consult - early action is always better than waiting.
Final Thoughts: The Best Dental Plan Is the One You’ll Stick To
Dog dental care doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. The key is finding the right mix of products and habits that work for your schedule - and your pup’s personality. Whether it’s brushing, powders, chews, or all three, consistency is what leads to cleaner teeth, fresher breath, and a healthier, happier life.
At Brindle Pet Supplies, we’re proud to carry a wide range of trusted dental products, including vet-loved staples like PlaqueOff Powder, Vet’s Best Powder, Whimzees Dental Bones, and all-natural chews like RedBarn Bully Sticks and Purely Paws Collagen Sticks.
Shop the best dental health solutions for dogs at Brindle Pet Supplies. From PlaqueOff and powders to chews, brushes, and beyond - we make it easy to build a routine that works. Fast, reliable shipping across Canada.