Let’s face it: most dogs don’t exactly line up to have their teeth brushed. In fact, here at Fox Creek Farm, we joke that convincing a dog to sit still for a toothbrush is like trying to fold a fitted sheet: possible, but you’ll probably sweat a little. The good news is that dental care doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right approach, a little humor, and some breeder-tested tricks, keeping your dog’s smile sparkling clean can actually be fun.

We’ve raised Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles for many years, and we can say with confidence: dogs with good dental care are happier, healthier, and live more comfortable lives. And let’s be honest, fresher breath makes those nose-to-nose cuddles a lot more pleasant.

Why Dog Dental Care Matters

Think of your dog’s mouth as their Swiss Army knife: it does it all. They eat, chew, carry toys, play tug-of-war, and even express their feelings with it (ever had your sleeve chewed on when you were late for dinner?). If plaque and tartar build up, it doesn’t just affect their breath. Gum disease, tooth loss, infections, and even organ problems can sneak up quickly.

We’ve seen it firsthand. One family brought a Goldendoodle back for a visit, and his once-bright puppy teeth were already turning yellow at just two years old. They hadn’t kept up with brushing or chews, and a professional cleaning was needed. The good news? Once they committed to a routine using pawTree’s Plaque Control chews, the improvement was amazing. Prevention really is easier and cheaper than correction.

Brushing Without the Battle

Brushing is the gold standard, but that doesn’t mean it has to be a rodeo. If you choose brushing over giving pawTree’s Plaque Control chews, here’s how we ease our puppies and their families into it:

• Start small and positive. When our puppies are still here with us, we get them used to having their mouths handled. Families tell us this makes a world of difference later. Before introducing a toothbrush, let your pup lick a little dog toothpaste off your finger. Suddenly, it’s not scary, it’s tasty.
• Finger brushes first. Those little silicone brushes that slip over your finger feel far less threatening than a full toothbrush. We’ve used them on wiggly doodles who wanted nothing to do with brushing, and it helped us ease into the habit.
• Keep it short. Don’t go in expecting to brush all 42 teeth on day one. Do two or three teeth today, a few more tomorrow. In a couple of weeks, you’ll have brushed the whole mouth without overwhelming your pup.

One of our Bernedoodle moms used to clamp her mouth shut whenever she saw the toothbrush. Instead of forcing it, we took a step back. We rewarded her for sniffing the brush, then for letting us touch her teeth for a second, and eventually, she came around. Now she’ll tolerate a quick brush in exchange for a dental chew. Persistence and positivity pay off.

The Secret Weapon: pawTree Plaque Control

Here’s the game-changer: pawTree’s Plaque Control Large soft chews. These aren’t your typical dental chews that just scrape the teeth. They actually work from the inside out, reducing plaque and tartar while supporting healthy gums, teeth, and fresher breath. No more brushing battles, your dog just thinks they’re getting a tasty treat. They are made from Scandinavian kelp and parsley and they work systemically through their saliva. Plaque becomes unable to stick to the teeth.

We use them daily with our adult dogs at Fox Creek Farm, and the difference has been remarkable. Puppies should begin using Plaque Control at 8 weeks as it helps bring in stronger, healthier adult teeth. Cleaner teeth, better breath, and no more dramatic Doodle theatrics when it’s time for oral care. Families have told us their vets commented on how healthy their dog’s teeth looked after a few months of Plaque Control. That kind of feedback makes us confident in recommending them to every new puppy family. And yes, they’re delicious. Our Doodles line up like it’s cookie time.

Diet: The Unsung Hero of Dog Dental Care

Here’s a breeder secret: what goes in your dog’s bowl affects what sticks to their teeth. Dogs on lower-quality diets often have more plaque buildup. That’s why we stick with pawTree’s Real Chicken & Oatmeal Recipe mixed with pawTree’s Salmon & Sweet Potato for our puppies and adult dogs. It’s nutrient-dense, supports digestion, and we’ve noticed better breath and firmer stools compared to other foods we tried years ago.

We also like to add pawTree’s Gastro Pro. While it’s marketed for GI health, we’ve found that overall wellness makes dental care easier, too. A healthy immune system helps prevent gum issues from escalating into more serious problems.

Professional Help When Needed

Even with the best brushing, chews, and diet, some dogs will need a professional dental cleaning now and then. We’ve taken our older Doodles in for cleanings, and the difference afterward is huge: they’re more comfortable, more playful, and you can tell they feel better.

Your vet can see and clean areas you just can’t reach at home. Think of it as your pup’s version of a spa day: anesthesia, polishing tools, and a fresh, clean smile at the end.  However, giving a tasty Plaque Control chew daily can possibly eliminate the need for expensive professional cleanings and avoid the risk associated with anesthesia.  

Making Dog Dental Care Fun

The secret to stress-free dental care? Make it a game. At Fox Creek Farm, we’ve sung ridiculous brushing songs (yes, the dogs tilt their heads at us like we’ve lost our minds). We give belly rubs after each attempt, and we always reward success with something tasty.

One family even told us their Goldendoodle waits patiently by the sink while they brush their own teeth. As soon as they finish, he trots over for his turn. When dental care becomes a routine, it stops being a battle.

Breeder’s Tried-and-True Routine

After years of raising Doodles, here’s the combo we’ve found works best for most families:

1. Start brushing young. Get your puppy used to it before they ever think it’s weird.
2. Use pawTree’s Plaque Control daily. If you commit to this, you can skip the brushing!.
3. If you choose brushing over a daily chew, keep it light. Smile, laugh, and don’t make it a chore. Dogs pick up on our energy.

FAQ: Stress-Free Dog Dental Care

How often should I brush my dog’s teeth?
Ideally, daily. But realistically, a few times a week.  However, pawTree’s Plaque Control can eliminate this need.

What if my dog refuses the toothbrush?
Begin with finger brushes or simply rub their gums with toothpaste. Pair it with lots of praise and rewards. Many dogs will warm up over time.

Are dental chews enough on their own?
Yes, if it is pawTree’s Plaque Control chews.  They are the only chew on the market that works systemically due to the Scandinavian kelp. 

Do puppies need dental care too?
Yes! Start young to build good habits. Even baby teeth benefit from brushing and Plaque Control, making the transition to adult teeth easier.  

What about bad breath that won’t go away?
Persistent bad breath can signal an underlying problem like gum disease. That’s when it’s time to see your vet for a check-up.

Do diet and food matter for dental health?
Absolutely. We recommend pawTree food because we’ve seen how a balanced, high-quality diet supports not just teeth but overall wellness.

Final Thought

Your dog doesn’t need a Hollywood smile, but a healthy mouth is one of the best gifts you can give them. It means less pain, fewer vet bills, and more joyful years together. And honestly, those cuddles are so much sweeter when you’re not dodging stinky breath.

At Fox Creek Farm, we believe caring for your dog’s teeth should never feel like a chore. With a little patience, pawTree’s trusted products, and some breeder-tested tricks, you’ll find it’s just another way to strengthen the bond you share with your pup.