Do You Really Need to Brush Your Dog's Teeth? (Yes. Here's Why.)
Is Brushing Your Dog's Teeth Really That Important?
Short answer: Yes.
Long answer: If you're not brushing your dog's teeth regularly, you're not just risking bad breath, you're putting their overall health in jeopardy.
And for giant breed dogs, the stakes are even higher.
The Link Between Dental Health and Whole-Body Health
Periodontal disease (aka gum disease) affects up to 80% of dogs by the age of 3. That bacteria doesn’t just stay in the mouth — it can enter the bloodstream and travel to the heart, kidneys, and liver. This kind of systemic inflammation can lead to major health complications down the line.
In other words: a dirty mouth can be the start of a very sick dog.
Why Giant Breeds May Be More at Risk
Big dogs = big mouths. And with those big mouths come larger teeth, deeper gum pockets, and more surface area for plaque and bacteria to take hold.
Many giant breed dogs are also more laid-back or slow-moving than smaller breeds, which can sometimes mask the subtle signs of dental pain or discomfort.
And let's be honest: brushing the teeth of a 140-pound Great Dane isn't exactly easy. But that doesn't mean it's not worth doing.
Signs of Dental Trouble in Dogs
Your dog might not show pain the same way you do. Here are a few red flags to watch for:
- Bad breath (not just dog breath — we're talking rotten smell)
- Drooling more than usual
- Red, swollen gums
- Yellow or brown buildup on the teeth
- Avoiding toys or chewing on one side
- Pawing at the mouth
- Changes in appetite or behavior
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time for a dental check-up.
How to Keep Your Dog’s Teeth Clean (Without Losing Your Mind)
Brushing daily is ideal, but if you can do it even 2-3 times a week, you're ahead of the game.
Here are a few tips to make it easier:
- Use a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. Never use human toothpaste—many contain xylitol (aka birch sugar), which is extremely toxic to dogs.
- Start slow. Let your dog lick the toothpaste, get used to the brush, and build up gradually.
- Aim for the outside of the teeth. That’s where plaque builds up most.
- Make it part of your routine. Pair it with their evening feeding or post-walk downtime.
Not into brushing? Dental chews, water additives, and toys can help — but they’re not a replacement. Think of them as floss, not a substitute for the brush.
Vet Dental Cleanings: When and Why
Even with good brushing habits, most dogs will need professional cleanings during their lifetime. These are done under anesthesia and allow the vet to clean below the gum line and catch issues early.
Your vet may recommend a different cadence for these depending on your dog’s age, breed, and oral health history.
The Bottom Line
Your dog can’t brush their own teeth, and they rely on you to help them stay healthy.
Adding a simple dental routine can:
- Reduce bad breath
- Prevent painful infections
- Protect their heart, kidneys, and liver
- Add years to their life
And let’s be honest: giant dogs already have shorter lifespans than we’d like. Let’s not let something preventable shorten it even more.
It doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to happen.
Even a little effort can go a long way toward giving your big dog more, better years.
