My Pet Hates Having Their Teeth Brushed: What Should I Do?

This blog is written in partnership with ChewMate and Pet Releaf to help pet parents find easy and enjoyable solutions to their pet’s dental health. 

Brushing your pet’s teeth is crucial for their health, but if your pet dislikes the taste of toothpaste or hands in their mouth, the task can be a struggle leading 80 percent of dogs to having dental disease by age two.  

While most pet parents understand the importance of keeping up with their own oral hygiene, two in three dog owners neglect actually neglect their pet’s dental health completely. Luckily, there are ways outside of traditional brushing to make dental care more enjoyable for your pets, and stress-free for you. 

Why Dental Care Matters 

Just like in humans, plaque and tartar buildup can lead to gum disease and bad breath in pets. Regular brushing is essential for keeping your pet’s teeth and gums healthy, but some pets just aren’t fond of the process. 

Dental Toys for Pets

Dental toys are a great way to support your pet's oral health while keeping them entertained. They work by helping to remove plaque and tartar as pets chew, which can significantly reduce the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. Additionally, dental toys can massage the gums, promoting better circulation and overall gum health. 

Many dental toys are designed with grooves, ridges, or bristles that make them more effective at cleaning hard-to-reach areas. Regular use of these toys can complement other dental care routines, providing a natural, enjoyable way for pets to maintain healthy teeth. One such option is ChewMate’s Treatbrush™ for dogs and their Treatbrush for cats, which combines the benefits of a science backed dental toy that brushes and flosses with the added advantage of holding treats for extra motivation and enrichment. 

Choosing Healthy Ingredients 

The ingredients in your dog's food and supplements can have a significant impact on their dental health. Highly processed foods with artificial additives, excessive sugars, or fillers can contribute to plaque buildup and poor gum health, leading to issues like bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease.  

On the other hand, natural ingredients like high-quality proteins, fiber, and nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals help support healthy teeth and gums. These ingredients can aid in reducing plaque buildup and promoting better saliva production, which naturally cleans teeth. Choosing natural ingredients in both food and supplements ensures that your dog receives the best nutrition for overall health, including optimal dental hygiene, without the harmful effects of artificial chemicals or fillers. 

Pairing ChewMate Treatbrush with Pet Releaf Edibites is an effective way to make dental care more enjoyable. These plant-based chews contain natural ingredients that promote holistic health with added benefits like calming. When placed inside the ChewMate brush, they give your pet something delicious to chew on while helping clean their teeth at the same time. 

Making Dental Hygiene Fun  

Next time your dog freaks out at the sight of a toothbrush: don’t panic. Remember that if your pet hates traditional brushing, there are many other great solutions out there that can help support your dog’s dental hygiene. These products make dental care more enjoyable by turning it into a fun, rewarding activity for your pet, helping maintain their oral health in the process. 

Explore ChewMate’s Treatbrushes and Pet Releaf’s Edibites for the perfect combo. Simply insert a Pet Releaf Edibite into the Treatbrush™, and let your pet enjoy the combination of a tasty chew and a fun, natural way to clean their teeth. It’s an easy, low-stress way to support their dental health.