5 Ways to Remove Tartar from Your Dog Yourself
Tartar buildup in dogs can lead to serious health issues, including gum disease, tooth loss, and even organ damage.
While professional scaling by a veterinarian is effective, it can be expensive and stressful for pets.
Thankfully, there are natural, veterinarian-recommended methods to help reduce or even remove tartar buildup at home.
Here are the top 5 proven, expert-backed ways to naturally remove tartar from your dog’s teeth.
1. Brush Your Dog's Teeth Regularly
Brushing is the most effective way to prevent and remove tartar.
Use a soft-bristled dog toothbrush and dog-safe toothpaste (never human toothpaste, as it may contain xylitol or fluoride, which are toxic to dogs).
Brushing at least 3-4 times a week is ideal, though daily brushing yields the best results.
Expert Tips:
Start slowly and make it a positive experience with praise and rewards.
Let your dog taste the toothpaste before brushing to get used to it.
Focus on the gum line where plaque tends to accumulate.
Dog Owner Insight: Many pet owners find finger toothbrushes easier to use for smaller breeds or dogs that resist traditional brushes.
2. Use Dental Chews and Tartar-Control Treats
Dental chews provide mechanical cleaning action as your dog gnaws on them.
They help scrape off soft tartar and massage the gums.
Look for VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council)-approved products for proven effectiveness.
Expert Tips:
Choose chews based on your dog’s size and chewing strength.
Avoid overly hard chews that can fracture teeth.
Dog Owner Insight: Popular VOHC-approved chews include Greenies, Whimzees, and OraVet Dental Chews.
Some owners find that rotating between different textures keeps their dogs more engaged.
3. Give Your Dog Safe Chewing Options
Chewing naturally helps clean teeth.
Raw bones (never cooked) and antlers can help scrape away tartar.
These provide hours of engagement while supporting dental health.
Expert Tips:
Always supervise chewing to avoid choking hazards.
Avoid weight-bearing bones from large animals, which can crack teeth.
Dog Owner Insight: Raw chicken necks and deer antlers are popular, but some owners prefer softer alternatives like yak chews or rubber dental toys filled with treats.
4. Use Dental Wipes or Oral Sprays
If your dog refuses brushing, dental wipes or sprays are a great alternative.
Wipes physically remove plaque, while sprays can reduce bacterial growth and freshen breath.
Expert Tips:
Use wipes daily, especially after meals.
Apply sprays directly onto the teeth or mix with water, depending on the product.
Dog Owner Insight: Many owners find wipes easier to use with small dogs or those with sensitive gums.
Sprays with natural enzymes like aloe vera or chlorhexidine are often well-tolerated.
5. Add Dental Supplements and Water Additives
Dental supplements, often made with natural seaweed (like Ascophyllum nodosum), help reduce plaque-causing bacteria.
Water additives are also effective and require no effort from your pet.
Expert Tips:
Always choose veterinarian-approved products.
Monitor for changes in drinking behavior when using additives.
Dog Owner Insight: Brands like PlaqueOff or TropiClean are highly rated among dog owners.
Supplements can be added to food or offered as treats.
Bonus Tips for Long-Term Dental Health
Feed Dry Kibble or Dental Diets: Some prescription dog foods are designed to help clean teeth as dogs chew.
Schedule Annual Vet Checkups: Early detection of dental issues saves money and prevents pain.
Avoid Harmful Chews: Skip hard plastic bones, hooves, or anything harder than your dog’s teeth.
Final Thoughts: Dog tartar
Maintaining your dog’s dental health doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated.
By incorporating these natural, at-home tartar removal methods into your routine, you can significantly reduce dental issues and improve your dog’s overall health and happiness.
Choose the methods that best suit your dog’s personality and lifestyle, and remember: consistency is key.
Top 10 Questions About Removing Dog Tartar
1. What causes tartar buildup on my dog's teeth?
Tartar, or dental calculus, forms when plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—accumulates on the teeth and hardens due to minerals in the saliva.
If not removed promptly, this can lead to gum disease and other oral health issues.
2. How can I tell if my dog has tartar buildup?
Signs include yellow or brown discoloration on the teeth, especially near the gum line, persistent bad breath, red or swollen gums, and difficulty eating or chewing.
Regularly inspecting your dog's mouth can help in early detection.
3. Is it safe to remove tartar from my dog's teeth at home?
While regular brushing and dental chews can help prevent and reduce tartar, attempting to remove hardened tartar at home using sharp instruments is not recommended.
Improper techniques can injure your dog's gums or enamel.
Professional cleanings are advised for significant tartar removal.
4. How often should I brush my dog's teeth to prevent tartar?
Daily brushing is ideal, but brushing at least two to three times a week can significantly reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
Use a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste, as human products can be harmful to dogs.
5. Are there specific diets that help reduce tartar in dogs?
Yes, certain dental diets are formulated to reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
These diets often have a kibble texture designed to mechanically clean the teeth and may contain additives that promote oral health.
Consult your veterinarian for recommendations tailored to your dog's needs.
6. Can dental chews effectively remove tartar from my dog's teeth?
Dental chews can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup through mechanical action and may contain ingredients that support dental health.
However, they should complement, not replace, regular brushing and professional cleanings.
7. What are the risks of untreated tartar buildup in dogs?
Untreated tartar can lead to periodontal disease, causing pain, tooth loss, and infections.
Bacteria from dental infections can enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting the heart, kidneys, and liver.
8. At what age should I start cleaning my dog's teeth?
It's best to start dental care routines, including brushing, when your dog is a puppy to acclimate them to the process.
However, it's never too late to begin. Early and consistent dental care helps prevent tartar buildup and associated health issues.
9. How often does my dog need professional dental cleanings?
The frequency depends on factors like age, breed, diet, and at-home dental care.
Many dogs benefit from annual professional cleanings, but your veterinarian can provide guidance based on your dog's specific needs.
10. Are there natural remedies to help control tartar buildup in dogs?
In addition to regular brushing, offering raw bones, carrots, or specially designed dental chews can aid in reducing plaque.
Some owners use coconut oil or diluted apple cider vinegar as natural additives, but it's essential to consult with your veterinarian before introducing new remedies to ensure they're safe and appropriate for your dog.
Consistent dental care, including at-home practices and professional consultations, is key to preventing and managing tartar buildup in dogs.
So far, we have looked at 5 ways to remove tartar from a dog. I hope this article was of some help to those who raise dogs, and I would appreciate it if you could share this article with those who need it.
