Does Your Dog Need Their Teeth Brushed? 5 Signs

Dog breath should not clear the room. If you have noticed funky smells or buildup on your pup’s teeth, it is not just cosmetic. It is an early warning sign.

Brushing often gets skipped because it feels like a hassle, but dental care is one of the easiest ways to keep your dog healthy long-term. Spotting problems early means less pain for your pup and fewer surprise vet bills for you.

Here are five signs it is time to bring out the toothbrush.

1. Bad Breath (Halitosis)

If your dog’s mouth smells bad, it is more than “dog breath.” Odor often comes from bacteria thriving on leftover food particles. Over time, that bacteria can lead to gum disease or infections that spread beyond the mouth (AVMA – Pet Dental Care).

2. Yellow or Brown Teeth

Plaque looks soft and sticky at first, but when it hardens into tartar, it turns yellow or brown. Once tartar locks onto teeth, it can only be scraped off by a veterinarian. The longer it sits, the higher the risk of cavities, gingivitis, and eventual tooth loss (VCA – Dental Cleaning in Dogs).

3. Red or Swollen Gums

Healthy gums are bubblegum pink. If you notice redness, swelling, or even a little bleeding after chewing, that is gingivitis, the earliest stage of periodontal disease. Left unchecked, gum problems hurt more than smiles. They can impact heart and kidney health too (VCA – Gingivitis and Stomatitis in Dogs).

4. Drooling or Chewing Differently

Is your dog suddenly drooling more? Or maybe avoiding their usual kibble crunch? Dogs hide pain well, but subtle changes in chewing often point to discomfort from tooth decay or sore gums.

5. Avoiding Chew Toys

A pup who suddenly ignores their favorite bone or rubber toy could be protecting a sore mouth. What looks like pickiness may actually be pain. That is your cue to investigate.

What Happens If You Do Not Brush

Ignoring dental care does not just mean stinky breath. It can snowball into serious and expensive problems. About 80% of dogs show signs of dental disease by age three. When plaque and tartar creep below the gumline, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and affect vital organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys (VCA – Dental Disease and Systemic Health).

Advanced dental cleanings often require anesthesia and can cost hundreds or even thousands at the veterinarian. The worst-case scenario is tooth extractions or chronic health issues that could have been prevented with a simple daily brush.

The good news is brushing your dog’s teeth does not have to be a struggle. When the toothpaste actually tastes good, it becomes part of the routine, not a battle.

That is why we created Pupspaste. Our small-batch dog toothpaste is made with real flavors like blueberry, pumpkin, and peanut butter, so pups come running instead of hiding.

👉 Pupspaste officially launches January 10, 2026. Mark your calendars. Healthier dog smiles are on the way. 🐾