If you think that it takes a long time to find a toothbrush for yourself, wait until you see the available options for dogs. There are so many different canine toothbrushes available, it can make your head spin. In this article, we’re going to look at the best toothbrush for Pugs to help ensure you get the right one.
What Is The Best Toothbrush For Pugs?
The best canine toothbrush is one that is FDA approved for canines. You’ll also want to opt for one that has soft bristles to avoid bleeding and aggravation.
Look for a small to a medium-sized head toothbrush, that has a round shape. A round-shaped toothbrush usually has a narrow handle. This will make it easy for you to properly brush their teeth.
Don’t forget to choose one with soft bristles!
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Keep your Pug's teeth clean with these easy-to-use Vet's Dental Finger Dog Toothbrushes. You'll love the fresh breath and whiter teeth.
Keep your Pug's teeth healthy and clean with the Vetoquinol Vet Solutions Enzymatic Poultry Flavored Toothbrush Kit.
It can be challenging to brush your Pug’s teeth, especially, if they are not used to it. The most important thing to look for when shopping for oral hygiene products for your pooch is to find something that is comfortable for both you and your dog.
Can You Use “People” Toothbrushes and Toothpaste For Your Pug?
Just like you would NEVER use your shampoo on your Pug, you don’t want to use your toothpaste or old toothbrush to clean your Pug’s teeth. Human toothpaste can be poisonous for your dog. These dog toothpaste products are completely safe to use.
Human’s toothbrushes are way different than a dog’s toothbrush. A human toothbrush is too hard for your pooch and can cause bleeding and sore gums.
When I first got Mindy my black Pug, we used a soft toothbrush that was designed for human babies, until I realized that I needed a canine toothbrush.
We’ll discuss more in detail about the different types of dog toothbrushes that are available.
What To Look For In A Pug Toothbrush?
Most Pug owners don’t realize how challenging it can be to find the right toothbrush for your dog. There is literally a wide range of different types of canine toothbrushes available on the market.
This can make it totally confusing for anyone who just wants to clean their Pug’s teeth.
Choose a toothbrush that is specifically designed for canines. You’ll want to find one that is both easy for you to use and comfortable for your Pug. Here are some things to consider when shopping for a Pug toothbrush.
FDA Approved Food Grade Materials: Choose pet products that are FDA-approved, food-grade, and utilize pet-safe materials in the bristles. The toothbrush in your bathroom is FDA approved to keep you safe, your Pugs should be too.
Sizing: A Pug is a brachycephalic dog with a small shorter jaw. Take this into consideration when shopping either online or at your local Walmart. Opt for a toothbrush with a small head, to ensure that it fits in your Pug’s mouth without making them uncomfortable.
Length: The average adult dog has 42 teeth, which is more than the average human. You’ll want to find a toothbrush that is long enough to brush all their teeth, not just their front teeth. For the best comfort, find one that is 7 – 9 inches in length.
Angle: A dog’s toothbrush should have an angled head. This makes it easier to brush your dog’s chompers, even those way in the back of their mouth.
Soft Bristles: Choose one that has soft bristles to prevent injuring your pet’s fragile gums and teeth. Hard bristles will aggravate your pet’s gums and can even lead to infection.
Dual Head: This type of dog toothbrush has 2 brush heads located on both ends of the handle.
How Often Should You Replace Your Dog’s Toothbrush?
Just like you replace your toothbrush every 3 months, you should replace your Pug’s toothbrush as well.
If you notice your the bristles becoming worn, you should purchase a new one.
Also, if you have more than one dog, they each should have their own individual toothbrush.
Do You Need To Brush Your Pug’s Teeth?
Dental disease is a chronic problem that affects over 80% of dogs, and unfortunately, the Pug dog breed is more prone to having problems with their teeth.
According to Pet WebMD, you should brush your dog’s teeth 2-3 times per week.
Types of Toothbrushes for Pugs
Now let’s take a look at some of the most common types of products you can use to keep your Pug’s teeth clean. Remember, every dog is different so you’ll want to find one that works for your Pug!
#1 Vet’s Best Finger Dog Toothbrush
The Vet’s Finger Toothbrushes work great for reducing plaque and tartar on your dog’s teeth. Perfect if you have more than one dog as they come in a 10-count pack.
They fit perfectly on people who have small and medium-sized fingers.
Pros:
Easy to Use: They fit in perfectly on your fingertip and won’t fall off easily. The soft, flexible bristles are easy on your dog’s teeth and gums and won’t cause bleeding or aggravation.
Safe Food Grade, BPA Free: You DON’T HAVE TO WORRY about any synthetic estrogen that is commonly used to harden polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resin, which can be dangerous for Pets.
Disposable: Can be used anywhere and perfect if you’re traveling.
Affordable: Extremely affordable for Pug owners and can help you maintain good doggie dental care.
Dental Care: Helps remove plaque, tartar and promotes healthy gums.
Cons:
Dog Size: These are perfect for smaller dogs.
How to Use:
These toothbrushes are 3/4 inches in diameter. Place one silicone toothbrush on your index finger. Gently brush your dog’s teeth to remove plaque, tartar and any built-up food particles.
Keep your Pug's teeth clean with these easy-to-use Vet's Dental Finger Dog Toothbrushes. You'll love the fresh breath and whiter teeth.
#2 Pet Republique Toothbrushes for Pugs
Pet Republique toothbrushes are perfect for both dogs and cats. The ergonomic handle makes it easy to hold while you brush your dog’s teeth.
Pros:
100% Safe: Phthalate-free, non-toxic and BPA free. Toothbrush bristles are constructed from recycled material, the handle is compostable/biodegradable.
Handle: Small hump to help you get a better grip.
Veterinarian Safe: Highly recommended from vets to help maintain your dog’s oral care.
Curved Bristles: Makes brushing easier for those hard to reach teeth.
Packaging: 100% recycled materials
Cons:
Tiny Dogs: Some people have said that it is too large for tiny dogs.
Size:
These come in several different sizes for small, medium, and large dog breeds.
How to Use:
Put a small amount of dog toothpaste on the bristles and brush your dog’s teeth thoroughly. After use, wash and dry the bristles.
You’ll want to replace this toothbrush every 3-4 months for effectiveness.
Protect your Pug's teeth with the Pet Republique's Canine Dual-Head Toothbrush to help scrub away tartar and grime!
#3 Vetoquinol Dual-Ended Toothbrush
The Vetoquinol Dual-Ended Toothbrush is perfect for both dogs and cats. It features both a small and large head on either end, which makes it perfect for dogs of all sizes.
You can opt to purchase the stand-alone dual-ended toothbrush or the complete oral dental kit, with toothpaste and finger brush.
Pros:
Kit: The kit contains triple enzyme formula toothpaste to help remove food particles and plaque. Poultry flavored toothpaste your Pug is sure to love.
Eliminate Bad Breath: Brushing regularly can help eliminate bacteria that cause bad breath.
Dual-Ended Brushes: Makes it perfect for both cats and dogs.
Bristles: The soft bristles won’t aggravate your dog’s teeth or gums.
Angled Heads: Makes it easy to reach brush those hard to reach places.
Cons:
Toothpaste Taste: Some people complained that neither their cat or dog liked the flavor.
How to Use:
For best results use an Enzadent Enzymatic Toothpaste and brush your dog’s teeth on a regular basis.
Keep your Pug's teeth healthy and clean with the Vetoquinol Vet Solutions Enzymatic Poultry Flavored Toothbrush Kit.
#4 Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Kit For Puppies
The Nylabone oral kit for puppies has everything you’ll need to start caring for your pup’s teeth right.
Oral care made easy to help keep your puppy maintain healthy teeth, gums, and fresh breath.
Pros:
Specifically For Puppies: half-inch toothbrush head makes it easy clean your pup’s teeth with a gentle massaging motion.
Angled Neck With Soft Nylon Bristles: Nylon bristles and angled neck make it easy to reach those back teeth.
Denta-C Toothpaste: Proven to reduce plaque that is responsible for causing bacteria.
Complete Kit: Comes with a finger brush, small toothbrush, (for puppies) and 2.5-ounce toothpaste tube.
Cons:
Three-Sided Toothbrush: Can be difficult to get your dog’s teeth lined up to get cleaned properly, especially, if your puppy squirms a lot. Basically, the rubber massagers make it more challenging to get a good cleaning.
How to Use:
Use the finger brush in small circular motions to remove debris and keep their teeth clean. Gently massage their teeth and gums without using a lot of force.
When using the toothbrush, apply a small amount of Nylabone® Dental Toothpaste. No rinsing is necessary, but make sure you have fresh water, as your dog may want to drink some water.
This Nylabone Advanced Oral Care will help get your Pug puppy into the habit of cleaning their teeth. Plus, they will love the yummy peanut flavor!
#5 Arm & Hammer Clinical Dental Toothpaste and Brush Kit
Get into the habit of cleaning your Pug’s teeth with this Arm & Hammer’s Dental Toothbrush & Toothpaste Kit. The enzymatic toothpaste is infused with baking soda to help clean the bacteria from those hard to reach places.
Pros
- Designed for sensitive teeth and inflamed gums.
- Finger brush makes it easy to massage your pet’s gums and teeth.
- Delicious chicken flavor and fresh mint your furbaby will love.
- Toothpaste is infused with baking soda to do a deep clean.
Cons
- Some people have complained about the smell, but their dog’s love it.
Get your Pug into good dental hygiene practice with the Arm & Hammer's Dental Toothpaste and Brush Kit. Easily cleans the grime and tartar from your dog's teeth.
Other Ways to Keep Your Pugs Teeth Clean
I realize that it may not be possible to brush your Pug’s teeth every 2-3 days. The great thing is you can use dental treats, chew bones and other toys to help keep Fido’s teeth clean.
As a dog owner, it’s vital to learn how to brush your dog’s teeth. With proper doggie dental care, you can prevent heart disease, arthritis, and other related health problems.
If you don’t feel comfortable brushing your Pug’s teeth, then I’d recommend investing in Pug dog insurance. It’s a great way to protect your pet’s teeth in case of accidents or illnesses.
Final Word On Toothbrushes For Pugs
Taking the time to find the right toothbrush for your Pug can make a huge difference in their oral hygiene. Hopefully, this article will help you find something that is comfortable for both you and your dog.
If your Pug doesn’t like getting their teeth brushed, you may also want to check out these dental treats to help keep their teeth clean between teeth cleanings.
Resources And Further Reading
Kressin, “Dog dental & oral health care,” Animal Dentistry & Oral Surgery Specialists, 2018
Quest, “Oral health benefits of a daily dental chew in dogs,” Journal of Veterinary Dentistry, 2013.
South Boston Animal Hospital – Dr. Nataile Waggener – How Your Dog’s Dental Health Affects His Overall Wellness