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Homemade Dog Toothpaste (DIY Recipe)

Over 80% of dogs develop dental disease by age three!

Bad breath isn’t just annoying—it signals plaque, gum disease, or hidden health issues.

Skip the chemical-filled toothpaste! With a few safe, natural, and affordable ingredients, you can make a DIY toothpaste your pup will love.

Keep reading to discover:

  • Three easy dog toothpaste recipes for fresh breath & clean teeth
  • Natural ingredients that fight bad breath and plaque
  • Fun dental facts every dog owner should know
  • Pro tips to brush your dog’s teeth like a grooming expert

Let’s get started and keep those canine teeth sparkling!


Homemade Dog Toothpaste (DIY Recipe)


Recipe 1: Simple Coconut Oil Dog Toothpaste

This easy recipe uses a few natural ingredients that are gentle, safe, and effective.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 2 tablespoons of coconut oil (antibacterial and soothing)
  • 1 tablespoon of baking soda (removes plaque gently)
  • 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon (natural breath freshener)
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon of dog-safe bone broth powder (for added flavor that your dog will love)

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Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Mix the Ingredients: Combine the coconut oil, baking soda, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Mix until it forms a smooth paste. If desired, add bone broth powder for extra flavor.
  2. Store in a Jar: Transfer the mixture to an airtight container or jar. Coconut oil hardens in cooler temperatures, so refrigerate it if needed.
  3. Use a Dog Toothbrush: Apply a small amount of toothpaste to a dog toothbrush or finger brush.
  4. Brush Your Dog’s Teeth: Gently brush your dog’s teeth, focusing on areas prone to plaque buildup, like the gumline and molars.
  5. No Rinse Needed: Let your dog lick their mouth clean—this toothpaste is safe to ingest!

Pro Tip: Brush your dog’s teeth 2–3 times a week for the best results.

Recipe 2: Fresh Breath Minty Dog Toothpaste

If bad breath is your dog’s main issue, this minty recipe is the perfect solution.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 2 tablespoons of coconut oil (antibacterial and soothing)
  • 1 tablespoon of baking soda (plaque remover)
  • 1 teaspoon of fresh parsley, finely chopped (neutralizes bad breath)
  • 1 teaspoon of fresh mint leaves, finely chopped (natural breath freshener)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Chop the Herbs: Finely chop the parsley and mint leaves to release their natural oils.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the coconut oil, baking soda, parsley, and mint. Stir until you have a smooth, fragrant paste.
  3. Store Properly: Transfer the toothpaste to an airtight container or jar. Refrigerate it to keep it fresh and flavorful.
  4. Brush as Usual: Apply a small amount to your dog’s toothbrush or finger brush and gently clean their teeth.
  5. Make It Rewarding: End the session with a treat or a fun activity. This will make it a positive experience for your pup.

Pro Tip: Mint and parsley freshen breath. 

They also have vitamins that support gum health!

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Recipe 3: Savory Chicken-Flavored Dog Toothpaste

Does your dog turn their nose up at mint or coconut oil?

This savory chicken-flavored toothpaste is sure to win them over.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 2 tablespoons of low-sodium chicken broth (dog-safe flavor boost)
  • 2 tablespoons of coconut oil (a natural plaque remover)
  • 1 tablespoon of baking soda (cleans teeth gently)
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder (natural anti-inflammatory)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Mix the Ingredients: Combine the chicken broth, coconut oil, and baking soda in a bowl. Mix until smooth. If using turmeric, add it now for extra gum health benefits.
  2. Store in a Jar: Pour the mixture into an airtight container or jar. Refrigerate to maintain freshness.
  3. Brush Your Dog’s Teeth: Put a small amount on your dog’s toothbrush or finger brush. Then, gently clean their teeth.
  4. Reward Your Dog: After brushing, give your dog a treat or praise. It will make the experience positive.

Pro Tip: This recipe is perfect for picky eaters who prefer savory over sweet or minty flavors.

Fun Facts About Your Dog’s Teeth

Dogs’ dental health is fascinating! 

Here are some fun facts to keep you entertained:

  • Puppies Have Baby Teeth Too: Just like humans, puppies have 28 baby teeth that fall out by the time they’re 6 months old. Adult dogs have 42 teeth!
  • Chewing is Natural: Dogs enjoy chewing. It cleans their teeth, relieves stress, and strengthens their jaws.
  • Dental Disease is Common: 4 out of 5 dogs over the age of 3 suffer from some form of gum disease. Regular brushing can prevent this.
  • Wild Dogs vs. Domestic Dogs: Wild dogs don’t need toothpaste—they clean their teeth by chewing on bones. Domestic dogs rely on us for their dental care.
  • Breath as a Health Indicator: Persistent bad breath can be a sign of dental disease, kidney issues, or even diabetes.

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Pro Tips for Brushing Your Dog’s Teeth

Brushing your dog’s teeth doesn’t have to be a struggle. 

Follow these tips to make the process smoother and more enjoyable:

  • Go Slow: Let your dog sniff and lick the toothbrush before brushing. Gradually introduce the process to reduce anxiety.
  • Use a Finger Brush: For beginners or anxious dogs, a soft finger brush can be less scary than a regular toothbrush.
  • Stick to a Routine: Brush your dog’s teeth at the same time each day. Dogs thrive on routine, and it will help them get used to the process.
  • Start Early: Introduce brushing during puppyhood. It will help them get used to it.
  • Make It Positive: Use a cheerful tone, reward your dog with treats or praise, and make the experience fun.
  • Don’t Overdo It: Brushing 2–3 times a week is enough to maintain dental health without overwhelming your dog.

Fun Fact: Dogs can learn to enjoy brushing if it’s introduced gradually and paired with positive reinforcement!

How to Introduce Your Dog to Tooth Brushing

Brushing your dog’s teeth for the first time might feel daunting, especially if your pup isn’t used to it. 

The key is to take it slow, be patient, and make the experience positive.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help your dog feel comfortable with brushing:

1. Start Small

  • Begin by letting your dog sniff and lick the toothbrush or finger brush.
  • Dip the brush in something tasty. Try chicken broth or peanut butter that’s safe for dogs and free of xylitol. This will grab their interest.
  • Don’t try to brush their teeth yet—this is just to help them associate the brush with something positive.

2. Get Them Comfortable

  • Gently touch your dog’s mouth and lift their lips for a few seconds each day.
  • Reward them with a treat or praise to reinforce calm behavior.
  • Gradually increase the time you spend near their mouths until they feel at ease.

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3. Introduce Toothpaste

  • Let your dog taste a small amount of the homemade toothpaste on your finger.
  • Once they seem comfortable, use the toothpaste on their toothbrush or finger brush. Gently touch it to their teeth.

4. Brush for Short Durations

  • Start with a few seconds of brushing, focusing on one or two teeth.
  • Gradually increase the time as your dog gets used to it.

5. Stay Positive

  • Use a calm, happy tone throughout the process.
  • End every session with a treat, playtime, or cuddles to make it a rewarding experience.

Pro Tip: Be patient! Some dogs may take days or even weeks to get comfortable with brushing—consistency is key.

Common Ingredients to Avoid in Dog Toothpaste

Not all ingredients are dog-safe. 

Avoid these harmful substances when making or buying toothpaste:

  • Xylitol: This sugar substitute is highly toxic to dogs, even in small amounts.
  • Human Toothpaste: Most human toothpaste contains fluoride, which is poisonous to dogs.
  • Artificial Sweeteners: These can upset your dog’s stomach or cause serious health issues.
  • Essential Oils: While some oils are safe, many—like tea tree oil—are toxic to dogs. Stick to fresh herbs instead.
  • Strong Acids: Ingredients like vinegar or citric acid can erode enamel over time.

Did You Know? Dogs don’t need sugary flavors in their toothpaste. 

They’re more motivated by savory or meaty flavors!

Why Regular Brushing Matters

Brushing your dog’s teeth isn’t just about preventing bad breath—it’s about their overall health.

  • Dental disease can lead to painful infections and tooth loss. It may also affect organs like the heart and liver.
  • Regular brushing lowers the risk of complications. It also improves your dog’s quality of life.

The best part? It strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend.

Recommended Read: 13 Toxic Foods for Dogs (Avoid #9 Like The Plague!)

Conclusion

Homemade dog toothpaste is an easy, affordable way to keep your pup’s teeth clean and healthy. 

You can make a safe, effective, and tasty toothpaste for your dog. 

Just use simple, natural ingredients.

Brush your dog regularly with these DIY recipes. 

It will prevent plaque, fight bad breath, and improve their health.

So, grab your ingredients, whip up a batch, and turn brushing into a fun and rewarding routine. 

Your dog’s wagging tail will thank you!

Have you tried making your own dog toothpaste? 

Share photos or tips in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!


⚠️ Quiz: The #1 Dog Food To AVOID (causes weight gain, saps energy & harms your dog’s gut)

A: Chicken
B: Beef
C: Pork
D: Fish
E: Vegetables

Make your selection above or click here to skip straight to the answer.

==> Click Here To Discover #1 Dog Food To Avoid


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