How To Make Dog Toothpaste: Easy Natural Recipes

We brush our own teeth every day without a second thought, but when it comes to our dogs, dental hygiene can often fall by the wayside.

You might have tried to brush your dog’s teeth with store-bought paste, only to be met with a turned-up nose or a full-blown wrestling match.

Many commercial dog toothpastes contain long lists of ingredients you can’t pronounce, leaving you wondering what you’re actually putting in your beloved pet’s mouth.

The frustration is real. You know dental health is crucial for your dog’s overall well-being, as poor oral hygiene can lead to painful gum disease, tooth loss, and even more serious health issues affecting the heart and kidneys.

Yet, finding a product your dog actually likes—and that you feel good about using—can be a huge challenge. The cost of enzymatic toothpastes can also add up quickly, making a daily brushing routine feel like an expensive chore.

This guide is your solution. We will show you exactly how to make dog toothpaste at home using simple, natural, and safe ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.

These easy recipes are not only cost-effective but are also designed to be tasty for your dog, turning a dreaded task into a delightful treat. Get ready to take control of your dog’s dental health and create a homemade toothpaste that will have them begging to get their teeth brushed.

Why Your Dog’s Dental Health is So Important

Before we dive into the recipes, it’s vital to understand why brushing your dog’s teeth is one of the most important things you can do for them. It’s about so much more than just bad breath.

• Preventing Periodontal Disease: An estimated 80% of dogs show signs of dental disease by age three. It starts with plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—which hardens into tartar. Tartar buildup irritates the gums, leading to gingivitis (inflammation) and eventually periodontal disease, a painful infection that can destroy gum tissue and the bone that supports the teeth.
• Avoiding Pain and Tooth Loss: Dental disease is painful. Dogs are masters at hiding pain, so you may not even know your companion is suffering. Regular brushing removes plaque and prevents the progression of disease that leads to abscesses, loose teeth, and extractions.
• Protecting Overall Health: The bacteria from an infected mouth can enter the bloodstream and travel to vital organs. Studies have linked advanced periodontal disease to problems in the heart, kidneys, and liver. A healthy mouth contributes to a healthy body.
• Banishing Bad Breath: While some “doggy breath” is normal, truly foul breath is often a sign of underlying dental issues. Brushing regularly helps keep your dog’s breath much fresher.

Understanding Safe and Unsafe Ingredients

When you decide to make your dog’s toothpaste, safety is the number one priority. A dog’s digestive system is very different from ours, and many ingredients that are perfectly safe for humans can be toxic to them.

Safe & Beneficial Ingredients for DIY Dog Toothpaste:

• Coconut Oil: This is a fantastic base for many recipes. It has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help fight plaque-causing bacteria. Plus, most dogs love the taste! Use unrefined, virgin coconut oil.
• Baking Soda: A classic cleaning agent, baking soda is a mild abrasive that helps to scrub away plaque. It also helps to neutralize acids in the mouth, freshening breath. Use it in moderation, as too much can upset a dog’s stomach if swallowed in large quantities.
• Turmeric: This golden spice is a powerful natural anti-inflammatory. A small amount can help soothe irritated gums.
• Parsley: Known for being a natural breath freshener, fresh parsley (specifically the curly variety) contains chlorophyll, which has deodorizing properties.
• Mint (Peppermint or Spearmint): Another excellent breath freshener. A few fresh leaves can be chopped and added to recipes. Be sure to use the fresh plant, not essential oils, which can be too potent.
• Kelp Powder: Rich in vitamins and minerals, kelp can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
• Brewer’s Yeast: Dogs find the savory, nutty flavor of brewer’s yeast irresistible. It can be a great flavor additive to encourage picky dogs. It’s also packed with B vitamins.
• Cinnamon (Ceylon): This spice has antibacterial properties and a pleasant taste. Make sure you use Ceylon cinnamon, not Cassia cinnamon, as the latter contains higher levels of coumarin, which can be harmful in large doses.

CRITICAL: Ingredients to NEVER Use

Human toothpaste is toxic to dogs. It contains ingredients that can cause serious harm. Never use any of the following in your homemade recipes:

• Xylitol: This is the most dangerous ingredient. It is a sugar substitute found in many human dental products and is extremely toxic to dogs, even in tiny amounts. It can cause a rapid, life-threatening drop in blood sugar and liver failure.
• Fluoride: While beneficial for human teeth, fluoride is toxic to dogs when swallowed and can cause severe stomach upset or more serious issues in larger quantities.
• Soaps and Detergents (like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate): These foaming agents are harsh on a dog’s stomach and can cause gastrointestinal distress.
• High Amounts of Salt: While a tiny pinch might be okay, high salt content is not good for dogs.

Easy Natural Recipes: How to Make Dog Toothpaste at Home

Here are three simple, effective, and dog-approved recipes. Each one creates a paste that should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best results, make small batches weekly to ensure freshness.

Recipe #1: The Basic Coconut & Baking Soda Paste (For Plaque Fighting)

This is the simplest recipe and a perfect starting point. It combines the antibacterial power of coconut oil with the gentle scrubbing action of baking soda.

You Will Need:

• ¼ cup of virgin coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons of baking soda
• Optional: ½ teaspoon of finely chopped fresh parsley for breath freshening

Instructions:

1. Soften the Coconut Oil: If your coconut oil is solid, gently warm it until it becomes soft and malleable, but not completely liquid. You can do this by placing the jar in a bowl of warm water or microwaving it for just a few seconds.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the softened coconut oil and the baking soda together.
3. Add Optional Parsley: If using, stir in the finely chopped parsley.
4. Mix to a Paste: Stir everything thoroughly until you have a consistent, smooth paste.
5. Store: Transfer the paste to a small airtight container (a small glass jar works perfectly) and store it in the refrigerator. The paste will firm up in the fridge.

Recipe #2: The Turmeric Golden Paste (For Healthy Gums)

This recipe is fantastic for dogs with sensitive or slightly inflamed gums. Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties can provide soothing relief, while the coconut oil and kelp work on plaque.

You Will Need:

• ¼ cup of virgin coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon of kelp powder
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• Optional: 1 tablespoon of brewer’s yeast for flavor

Instructions:

1. Soften the Coconut Oil: Gently soften the coconut oil until it is easy to stir.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the kelp powder, turmeric powder, and optional brewer’s yeast together.
3. Add Coconut Oil: Add the softened coconut oil to the dry ingredients.
4. Mix Thoroughly: Stir until all the ingredients are fully incorporated and you have a uniform, golden-colored paste.
5. Store: Spoon the mixture into an airtight jar and keep it in the refrigerator.

Recipe #3: The Minty Fresh Breath Paste (For Odor Busting)

If your primary goal is to combat bad breath, this recipe is for you. The combination of mint and parsley provides a powerful, natural deodorizing effect.

You Will Need:

• ¼ cup of virgin coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons of baking soda
• A small handful (about 10-12 leaves) of fresh mint
• A small handful (about a tablespoon) of fresh curly parsley
• Optional: A pinch of Ceylon cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Finely Chop Herbs: Mince the fresh mint and parsley leaves as finely as you possibly can. The smaller the pieces, the better they will incorporate into the paste.
2. Soften the Coconut Oil: Warm the coconut oil until it is soft and creamy.
3. Combine All Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the softened coconut oil, baking soda, finely chopped herbs, and optional pinch of cinnamon.
4. Mix Until Well-Blended: Stir vigorously until all the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the paste.
5. Store: Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. The fresh herbs mean this paste is best used within 5-7 days.

A Tutorial on How to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth

Making the toothpaste is only half the battle. Now you have to use it! The key to success is to be patient and make it a positive experience for your dog.

Step 1: Get the Right Tools

• Dog Toothbrush: Use a toothbrush designed for dogs. They come in various sizes and often have angled heads to make reaching back teeth easier.
• Finger Brush: For beginners or small dogs, a rubber finger brush can be less intimidating. It fits over your index finger and has soft rubber bristles.
• Gauze: You can also simply wrap a piece of gauze around your finger, apply the paste, and use that to rub your dog’s teeth.

Step 2: The Introduction (Days 1-3)

1. Choose a quiet time when your dog is relaxed.
2. Put a small dab of your new homemade toothpaste on your finger and let your dog lick it off. This is just to get them used to the taste.
3. Praise them enthusiastically. Make it a treat! Repeat this once a day for a few days.

Step 3: Introducing the Feeling (Days 4-6)

1. Put the toothpaste on your finger. Let them lick some off, then gently rub your finger along the outside of their teeth and gums.
2. Focus only on the outside surfaces—this is where most plaque accumulates. Don’t try to force their mouth open.
3. Keep the sessions very short (under a minute) and end with lots of praise and maybe a favorite toy.

Step 4: Introducing the Brush (Days 7+)

1. Apply the toothpaste to the dog toothbrush or finger brush.
2. Let your dog lick the paste off the brush.
3. Gently lift your dog’s lip and start brushing the outside of a few teeth in a circular motion.
4. Start with the large canine teeth, as these are often the easiest to access.
5. Gradually increase the number of teeth you brush in each session. Aim to eventually brush all the outer surfaces, especially the back molars where tartar builds up heavily.
6. Always make it positive! Never turn it into a fight. If your dog is stressed, stop and try again tomorrow with a shorter session.

Conclusion: A Healthy Habit for a Happy Dog

You now have the knowledge and the recipes to take a proactive, natural approach to your dog’s dental care. By learning how to make dog toothpaste at home, you are providing your pet with a safe, effective, and tasty product that supports their long-term health. Remember that the goal is consistency. A quick, positive brushing session every day is far more effective than a weekly battle.

Be patient with your dog and with yourself. It may take time to build this new habit, but the rewards are immeasurable.

Every time you brush your dog’s teeth, you are actively fighting painful dental disease and contributing to their overall wellness. You are strengthening your bond and showing your love in one of the most practical ways possible.

Take pride in your homemade creations and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with giving your best friend a healthy smile.