I might be a little scared of the toothbrush but I would like your help.
I've shared some ideas on how you can help me to understand that brushing my teeth is a good idea.

Choose the Right Tools
Start with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. Human toothpaste can be harmful to dogs, so it's important to use one formulated for me. I like when we spend together so a finger toothbrush may be less scary than a traditional toothbrush.

Jasper Dog Finger Toothbrush

Let me taste the toothpaste
I eat all sorts of things (grass, lizards, human food) and so I am curious how this tastes. Most dog toothpastes are flavored to appeal to me. The 'Malt' flavor tastes like the pills you give me that taste yummy. On the other paw, you can't go wrong with anything that tastes like chicken.

Petrodex Toothpaste

Let's ease into this
Before using the toothbrush, you might want to let me get used to the sensation by gently rubbing my teeth and gums with your finger. Brushing my teeth requires me to have a lot of trust that this new 'game' is good. Please go slowly and let me set the pace.

I would like to try brushing now
Lift my lips and gently brush my teeth in a circular motion, focusing on the gum line. You don't need to brush the inside surfaces of my teeth as thoroughly; my tongue helps keep that area cleaner. It's a special touch to add a little teeth gel to remove plaque and tartar when you have finished brushing. It's fun to lick it off of my teeth. If I pull away, growl, or otherwise tell you to stop, then please take a break until tomorrow. This part of the process will take me some time to get used to it. Please don't rush me.

Fresh Breath by TropiClean Brushing Dental & Oral Care Gel for Dogs & Cats

Be Gentle and Patient
The first few times, you might only brush a few teeth. Gradually increase the number as I get more comfortable. Brushing my teeth should be a bonding experience and not a game of combat.

"Hiding Out" image by Andrew Roberts

Routines make me comfortable
If you brush my teeth daily, it will become a normal part of our routine. If that doesn't work out, then it's ok to brush a few times a week.

Image by rawpixel.com

Dental Chews and Toys!
Did someone say toy??These can help reduce plaque and tartar build-up. Make sure they are size-appropriate for me. I may act like a big dog but my mouth belongs to a little dog.

Regular Dental Check-ups
Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help spot and address dental issues early. Personally, I enjoy it when my vet sprays string cheese on the floor for me while she checks my joints. I wonder what she will give me to check my teeth?

Healthy Food
A good diet can also contribute to better dental health. I want to keep my teeth so that I can share your food for a long time. Please feed me healthy food and hide the sugar foods.

Fresh Water
You have taught me to have very high standards. My water should always be fresh, as it helps in keeping my mouth clean. Personally, I like the CoolerDog Dog Water Fountain that keeps the water moving through filters. So refreshing after I chase a squirrel!

CoolerDog Dog Water Fountain