The Truth About Dog Toothbrushing: Is It Worth It?
As a professional pet groomer, I often get asked about dog toothbrushing. Many groomers offer it as an add-on service for an extra fee, but is it actually worth the money? In short—no. Let’s talk about why, and what truly benefits your pet’s dental health.
Why Infrequent Toothbrushing Doesn’t Help
Toothbrushing is essential for maintaining your dog’s oral health, but it needs to be done several times a week to make a real difference. A professional groomer brushing your dog’s teeth once every 4-8 weeks does little to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Imagine if you only brushed your own teeth once a month—yikes! That’s why I don’t charge extra for it or offer it as a standalone service—my grooming is all-inclusive, and I believe in providing real value to my clients.
The Real Cause of Bad Breath
Many pet parents often assume that brushing will fix their dog’s bad breath. While brushing does help reduce plaque and bacteria, persistent bad breath is usually a sign of underlying issues such as dental disease, digestive problems, or even kidney concerns. If your dog’s breath consistently smells bad, a vet visit is the best first step rather than relying on brushing to mask the problem.
If tartar buildup is already significant, a professional cleaning by a veterinarian is the only way to remove it. Left untreated, severe tartar can lead to gum infections, tooth loss, and even complications affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys. Once your dog’s teeth are properly cleaned, we can work together to maintain their dental health with regular brushing!
How I Can Help
While I don’t offer toothbrushing as a paid service, I absolutely encourage and support pet parents who want to do it the right way—at home, consistently. If you’re interested, I’m more than happy to:
Recommend the best toothbrush and pet-safe toothpaste (never use human toothpaste!)
Show you how to brush your dog’s teeth effectively, and
I’ll do it for you during your pet’s grooming appointments
The Bottom Line
Brushing your dog’s teeth is important, but it has to be done regularly to be effective. Instead of paying for an occasional brush during a grooming session, invest in the right tools and we can make it a part of your dog’s routine at home. Your pup’s teeth—and your wallet—will thank you! I’ve had clients who brushed their dog’s teeth daily and never needed an expensive dental cleaning from the vet!
Got questions about your dog’s dental care? Let’s chat! I’m always happy to share tips and recommendations to keep your furry friend happy and healthy.
