Dog Dental Care: What I Do Since Georgie Hates Teeth Brushing

The first time I tried to brush Georgie’s teeth, it was a scene straight out of a slapstick comedy. Picture it: me, armed with a tiny toothbrush and chicken-flavored toothpaste, kneeling over a writhing, 8-pound fluffball who was clearly auditioning for an exorcism movie. He spun, he snarled (as much as a morkie can snarl), and he let out a series of yelps that made it sound like I was performing medieval torture. I ended that attempt with more toothpaste on my shirt than in his mouth, and a new respect for people who can actually brush their dog’s teeth. (Check out our top pick: dog grooming brush.)

Here’s the thing: dental health for dogs is not optional. Period. Plaque and tartar buildup don’t just lead to stinky breath; they can cause painful gum disease, tooth loss, and even systemic health issues. My vet hammered this home, gently reminding me that even though Georgie is small, his teeth are just as susceptible as a Great Dane’s. Since direct brushing was clearly off the table, I had to get creative, and more importantly, realistic. My clear point is this: if brushing is a battle you’re losing, find effective alternatives and stick to them with unwavering consistency.

My first line of defense is dental chews. Not just any old rawhide that Georgie devours in two seconds, but vet-approved chews designed to scrape plaque and freshen breath. I give him one every single day, without fail, usually in the late afternoon when he’s looking for a distraction. It’s a treat he loves, and it’s doing double duty. The trick is to find one that he genuinely enjoys and that actually has some therapeutic benefit – look for the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) seal if you want to be sure. I also incorporate dental wipes. While they don’t get into all the nooks and crannies like a brush, a quick wipe around his gumline after dinner helps remove some of the day’s debris. It’s less intrusive than brushing and Georgie tolerates it much better, seeing it as a strange, but ultimately harmless, petting session. (Check out our top pick: training treats.)

Finally, water additives are a sneaky, low-effort way to boost his oral hygiene. I add a capful to his water bowl every morning. He doesn’t notice it, it doesn’t change the taste of his water, and it helps inhibit bacterial growth in his mouth. It’s not a standalone solution, but it’s an excellent complementary tool in my “Georgie Hates Brushing” arsenal. These three methods – daily dental chews, regular dental wipes, and a daily water additive – have made a noticeable difference in Georgie’s breath and the health of his gums, according to our vet. It’s not brushing, but it’s far better than doing nothing, which was my initial, frustrated approach.

If your dog also treats a toothbrush like a mortal enemy, consult your vet to tailor a dental care routine that actually works for you and your pet.

Related: Dog Dental Care: Why It Matters and How to Do It

Related: Senior Dog Care Guide: What Changes When Your Morkie Gets Older

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