Jessisodes: How to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth — Vet HQ Darlinghurst & Double Bay

In this Jessisode, Dr Jess introduces us to Tebow after his dental procedure and shows how to brush a dog’s teeth at home using a soft children’s toothbrush, chicken-flavoured toothpaste, and positive reinforcement with treats. She demonstrates step by step how to make dental care stress-free.

She explains that brushing helps break up plaque, the sticky biofilm that leads to tartar, gingivitis, and bad breath. Some dogs may need to start slowly with just finger-touch training before moving to a toothbrush. Over time, pets learn to enjoy the process, especially when rewards are part of the routine.

At Vet HQ Darlinghurst and Double Bay, home dental care is strongly encouraged alongside professional dental cleans.

Want help starting a dental routine? Contact Vet HQ in Darlinghurst or Double Bay for dental care advice from Dr Jess.

“Brushing isn’t just for people. With patience and rewards, dogs can learn to love it too.” — Dr Jess, Vet HQ Darlinghurst

MEET THE AUTHOR

Dr Jessica Green

Dr Jessica Green is Head Veterinarian at Vet HQ Darlinghurst. With extensive experience across Sydney, Melbourne, and New York, Jess brings expertise in both general practice and emergency care. She’s passionate about senior rescues and challenging medical cases, leading her team with empathy and enthusiasm. Jess believes in building lasting relationships with clients and their pets, delivering exceptional, individualised care at every visit.

Outside the clinic, she enjoys spending time with her family at the beach and is a proud enthusiast of Chihuahuas. Her philosophy says it all: “We don’t have to do this; we get to do this.”

Benefits of working with Vet HQ

Why Brush Your Dog’s Teeth?

  • Prevents tartar, gum disease, and bad breath.
  • Reduces the need for frequent professional cleans.
  • Supports overall health. Dental bacteria affect the heart and kidneys.
  • Strengthens the bond between pets and owners.

Practical Pet Tips from Vet HQ

Start slowly if your dog is shy around the face.

Use chicken-flavoured toothpaste made for pets.

Brush the back teeth where plaque builds up most.

Reward with treats immediately after brushing.

Key Takeaways from Vet HQ

Brushing interrupts plaque and prevents dental disease.

Patience, rewards, and routine make brushing successful.

Vet HQ supports dental care in Darlinghurst & Double Bay.

Brushing your pet’s teeth helps prevent plaque and dental disease.

Book your pet’s appointment today and experience trusted, compassionate care from our dedicated Vet HQ team

FAQ’s for our Vet HQ Family

How often should I brush my dog’s teeth?

Jessisodes Darlinghurst recommends brushing your dog’s teeth daily if possible, or at least a few times a week, to keep plaque under control.

What toothpaste do vets in Double Bay recommend for dogs?

Always use pet-safe toothpaste, like chicken-flavoured veterinary brands, never human toothpaste.

What’s the easiest way to start brushing?

Start slow with finger-touch training, then move to a soft children’s toothbrush. Always reward your pet with treats to make it positive.

Do all pets need brushing, or just professional cleaning?

Vet HQ encourages both. Home brushing helps daily, but professional cleans are still needed to treat hidden disease.

What are the signs my pet might already have dental disease?

Look for bad breath, red gums, plaque build-up, or difficulty chewing, all signs that your pet needs a dental check.

How often should I brush my dog’s teeth?

Ideally, you should brush your dog’s teeth daily to prevent plaque build-up and dental disease. If daily brushing isn’t realistic, aim for at least 3–4 times per week. Even occasional brushing is better than none, and starting slowly helps your dog get comfortable with the routine over time.