Veterinarian examines a golden retriever's teeth during a dental check-up, showcasing pet dental care.

Over 80% of dogs & cats show signs of dental disease by age 3.

4 Reasons Why Toothbrushes for Dogs Don’t Work

Most pet parents know their dog’s dental health matters—but brushing their teeth often fails. Here’s why toothbrushes just don’t cut it (and what to do instead):

Bamboo toothbrush with white bristles on a blue background, promoting eco-friendly dental care options.

1. 🦠 Bacteria Build-Up on the Brush

Toothbrushes can harbor bacteria if not cleaned properly after every use.
❌ Those germs can transfer back into your pet’s mouth, leading to infections.
Same brush, every day = bacteria breeding ground.

Dog having teeth brushed by a person with an orange toothbrush, promoting pet dental hygiene and canine oral care.

2. 🩸 Hard on Gums

Brushing too hard can irritate or cut gums, especially for pets with sensitive mouths.
Bleeding, pain, and stress for your pet.
❌ Over time, damaged gums can lead to infections and tooth loss.

Black dog turning away from green toothbrush in a living room with wooden floor and shoes visible.

3. 😩 Most Dogs Hate It (And You Hate the Battle)

You know the drill—twisting, squirming, closed jaws.
Brushing becomes a daily struggle (or you just give up).
❌ Stress for you and your dog every time.

Close-up of a dog's mouth with severe dental disease, showing plaque and tartar buildup.

4. 🦷 Hard to Reach All Teeth

Even when you manage to brush, you’re likely missing spots—especially the back teeth.
Plaque builds up in hidden areas, leading to gum disease.
Missed molars = future vet bills.

Pet dental finger wipes container next to a woman using a wipe on a dog's teeth in a modern kitchen.

The Easier, Safer Way: Dr. Paws Choice Dental Wipes

Designed for sensitive gums, our wipes fight plaque and prevent gingivitis in just 2 minutes a day—with no toothbrush battles.

Pet dental finger wipes for dogs and cats in a pink container, shown with a stack of white wipes for dental hygiene.

2 Minutes a Day – Swipe & go—no toothbrush battle.
Gentle on Gums – Aloe-free formula with Chamomile & Witch Hazel soothes, not scrapes.
No Bacteria RiskFresh wipe every time—no dirty brush!
Reach Every ToothFeel the teeth as you clean—even the tricky spots.

🚫 No Brushing Battles. No Pain. No Stress.
Just Fresh Breath & Healthy Gums!

Purchase Dental Wipes

Most Viral Pet Brand on Tiktok.

From our Dr. Paws Choice Fans

★★★★★

Performance: The small wipes really do the job! I’ve been using them every other day and my cat’s mouth was beginning to smell really good and her teeth were clearing up!!
I didn’t take before & after pics but I promise yall, these wipes truly work. Trust the process!!

Hand holding tub of pet dental finger wipes near pet feeding area for dog dental care.
@dumdumahh
November 25, 2024 5:13 PM
★★★★★

10/10 very gentle my dog trusts me very well so was very easy I love these little finger patches she did not like dog toothbrushes

Hand holding pet dental finger wipes container, dog sleeping in bed nearby.
Jamie Schroder
September 12, 2024 9:54 PM
★★★★★

Love these, my dogs don’t fight me like they would with a toothbrush and I can really get in there with my finger

Pet dental finger wipes container with a bright pink lid, designed for dogs and cats, held by a person, shown on a carpeted floor.
@Ieshaadel
November 12, 2024 2:53 PM
★★★★★

My dog prefers these over a toothbrush she hates getting her teeth cleaned and this has helped me ease her into getting used to touching her face

Container of Pet Dental Finger Wipes for dogs and cats on a table, featuring a pink lid and vibrant packaging.
@Joobpiter
September 24, 2024 3:42 PM
★★★★★

They work perfect! My dog has always had issues with his teeth and smelly breath and this helped take off built up plaque amazingly! Plus all 7 of the ingredients are natural things, I didn’t have to look up anything to make sure it’s safe for pets!
100% recommend, my cat doesn’t even mind it!

Hand holding a jar of pet dental finger wipes featuring ingredient details and product benefits on the label.
@peachy_lils0
February 3, 2025 12:40 PM