This incredibly easy and natural DIY dog toothpaste contains only 3 ingredients! Not only does this recipe have simple ingredients, but they are also common ingredients you may already have in your home. My dog absolutely loves this homemade toothpaste and gets excited when it’s time to brush her teeth.
Your dog is going to love this natural dog toothpaste and your dogs’ teeth will thank you for it! And hopefully, you will say goodbye to any stinky breath your pet may have.
Natural Ingredients
Coconut Oil
- Coconut oil has natural antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. It can help reduce harmful bacteria in your dog’s mouth, which can contribute to plaque, gum disease, and bad breath.
- Coconut oil is also known for its soothing effects on inflamed gums. If your dog has early signs of gingivitis, coconut oil can help calm irritation.
- Coconut oil can help reduce plaque buildup by creating a barrier on the teeth. When used regularly, it helps prevent tartar from hardening and sticking to the teeth.
- Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects that promote healthier gums and teeth over time.
Baking Soda
- Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a gentle abrasive that helps scrub away plaque and tartar from a dog’s teeth without being too harsh on their enamel.
- It has natural deodorizing properties, which can help freshen your dog’s breath by neutralizing the acids that cause bad smells in the mouth.
- Baking soda can help maintain a balanced pH level in your dog’s mouth, which is important for preventing the growth of bacteria that lead to plaque, tartar, and gum disease.
- While baking soda is safe for dogs in small amounts, avoid using too much as ingesting large quantities can lead to stomach upset. A few teaspoons of baking soda mixed into a larger amount of toothpaste is usually well tolerated.
Optional Flavorings: chicken bouillon, beef bouillon, fresh mint, fresh parsley, or 3 drops of essential oils may help entice your dog to use this DIY toothpaste. You can mix and match your dog’s preference. If you aren’t sure what they would like best, then you can mix a small amount of coconut oil with the flavorings you have and let your furry friend try them out. Then you make whichever one they like best!
Easy Dog Toothpaste Recipe – Homemade
Here’s a simple DIY natural dog toothpaste recipe that you can make at home:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda (mild abrasive to clean teeth)
- 1/2 cup of coconut oil (antibacterial and soothing)
- 1/2 teaspoon of flavoring (optional)
- small glass mason jar or airtight container
- small bowl
- spoon/whisk
Flavoring options include chicken bouillon, beef bouillon, fresh mint, fresh parsley, or 2 drops of essential oils (peppermint or spearmint).
Instructions:
- Combine the 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda and coconut oil in a small bowl, mixing until smooth. I like to use a whisk, but a spoon will work if you don’t have many lumps.
- Add in your flavorings if using. If using fresh mint or fresh parsley, finely chop it and add 1/2 teaspoon to the mixture. If using chicken or beef bouillon, then add a 1/2 teaspoon to the mixture. You can use fresh parsley and bouillon, but I would adjust the amount to 1/4 teaspoon each to not overwhelm your doggo. Or add 2 essential oils of peppermint or spearmint. (I used fresh mint leaves in my recipe.)
- If the paste is too thick, add a few drops of water to reach your desired consistency.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 months. If using fresh mint or parsley, this may decrease how long the shelf life.
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How to Use Your Dog’s Homemade Toothpaste
Brushing your dog’s teeth with DIY toothpaste is a great way to maintain their oral health and prevent dental issues like plaque, tartar, and bad breath. You can use this dog toothpaste 1-3 times per week to maintain good oral hygiene.
If you haven’t made this DIY dog toothpaste yet, you can use good quality store-bought toothpaste for dogs as well.
1. Get Your Dog Comfortable:
- Choose a calm, quiet environment where your dog feels comfortable. Sit or kneel beside your dog instead of standing over them, as this is less intimidating.
- Gently handle your dog’s mouth area to get them used to having their mouth touched if they aren’t already familiar with it.
2. Let Your Dog Taste the Toothpaste:
- Put a small amount of the DIY toothpaste on your finger and let your dog lick it. This helps them associate the process with something tasty and pleasant.
3. Introduce the Toothbrush:
- Gently lift your dog’s lip to expose their teeth.
- Put a pea-sized amount of the dog’s toothpaste on the brush
- It’s a good idea to start brushing just a few teeth at a time. Focus on the outside of the teeth, especially the upper molars and canines, as these areas accumulate the most plaque.
4. Brush in Small Circles:
- Use a soft dog toothbrush, finger brush, or soft child size toothbrush to gently brush your pet’s teeth.
- Brush the teeth in gentle, circular motions, focusing on the gum line and teeth surfaces, especially any tartar buildup.
- Brush for 1-2 minutes in a circular motion or as long as your dog will allow, gradually increasing the time as your dog becomes more comfortable with the process.
5. Be Gentle and Patient:
- Take breaks if your dog seems stressed. You can brush a few teeth, then reward them with a treat or some praise, and continue later if needed.
- Keep the sessions short and positive, especially if your dog is new to tooth brushing.
6. Reward Your Dog:
- After you finish brushing, reward your dog with a treat, praise, or playtime. This reinforces positive associations with brushing.
Additional Tips:
- Frequency: Aim to brush your dog’s teeth at least 2-3 times per week. Daily brushing is ideal for optimal oral health.
- Introduce Gradually: If your dog is not used to having their teeth brushed, start slowly. Begin by just letting them lick the toothpaste, then gradually work up to brushing a few teeth at a time.
- Use Positive Reinforcement: The best thing is to stay calm and patient, and always reward your dog after brushing to make the experience enjoyable for them.
- Use Dog Toothpaste: Avoid using human toothpaste, as it contains ingredients that can be harmful to dogs.
With consistency and a gentle approach, brushing your dog’s teeth with this natural toothpaste can become a regular and stress-free part of their routine!
Easy, Natural Dog Care Recipes
Hi, I’m Kristin.
I am so glad you are here ready to make some really incredible diy recipes with simple ingredients. Join me in learning how to use essential oils in all of your homemade personal care products and creating a natural home.
Lastly, if you make this diy recipe please share your comments below. I love to hear from everyone who makes these homemade recipes and do my best to respond to all of them!
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