Can Dogs Share Toothbrushes? Vet-Verified Facts & FAQ
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View 4 More +All dogs need dental care, including having their teeth brushed regularly. If you have multiple dogs, you may wonder if you can just use the same toothbrush for all of your dogs. So, would there really be any harm in your dogs using the same toothbrush?
It’s best to have a separate toothbrush for each dog to prevent spreading bacteria. In this article, we will go over the reality of sharing toothbrushes between your pooches.
Can Dogs Use the Same Toothbrush?
If we're being realistic, dogs are constantly swapping spit. Dogs communicate with their mouths, play with their mouths, and even share the same toys, but that doesn’t mean we should promote it. It’s best to use different toothbrushes for each dog if possible. If not, disinfecting the brush between dogs may be best.
Risks of Dogs Sharing a Toothbrush
Much like humans, dogs are susceptible to catching illnesses from other canines. If you have two dogs and you brush their teeth with the same toothbrush, you could, in fact, transmit an infection or illness from one to the other.
We want to be clear that other things can do this as well, like sharing toys or playing with open mouths.
Some illnesses and issues that could pass through saliva include:
- Salmonella
- Brucella
- Leptospira
- Rabies
- Norovirus
- Pasteurella
While all this is true, if you have two dogs in close proximity, the likelihood of them swapping spit at some point is inevitable—with or without the toothbrush.
The 4 Types of Dog Toothbrushes
You know the pet market, constantly coming up with different products for us to try. Here are a few different toothbrush styles for dogs. Check them out and see if any of them capture your attention.
1. Angled Handle Toothbrushes
Angled handle toothbrushes are generally pretty long, allowing you to get those hard to reach spaces in your dog's mouth without getting your fingers too close. They are generally pretty inexpensive and easy to come by.
The Pet Republique Dog and Cat Dual-Head Toothbrush is a great example.
2. Multiple Head Toothbrushes
Some toothbrushes have multiple heads so you can use different sizes and textures to get all the nooks and crannies.
H&H Pets 360 Degree Bristle Dog & Cat Toothbrushes have a 360-degree bristle rather than using multiple heads to get the fully clean effect.
3. Finger Toothbrushes
Finger toothbrushes generally fit from the tip of your finger to your second knuckle. They allow you to get up close and personal with your dog, wearing away the plaque from the teeth and may be less scary than brushes with handles. They are generally inexpensive and come in packs, so they would be a great option if you have more than one dog.
The Jasper Finger Dog and Cat Toothbrush is a fabulous example of an efficient finger brush for pups.
4. Dental Chews
Dental chews can provide a great way for your dog to expel energy and promote chewing behavior while getting their pearly whites scrubbed. This is a hands-off approach to dental care.
Greenies Dental Treats are a fabulous option from a totally trusted brand. They freshen all your dogs' breath and don’t share bristles.
Can You Use Human Dental Care Products for Dogs?
You don’t necessarily have to go the canine route when it comes to toothbrushes, a soft-bristled, small headed human toothbrush can work as well. Just be sure it fits well into your dog’s mouth and isn’t overly firm to where it can cause injuries.
Never, ever use human toothpaste for dogs as most of it is toxic. It contains fluoride and sometimes xylitol, two very toxic ingredients to our canine counterparts.
Dental Care Is Crucial
Dental care is often an overlooked part of dog ownership. We kind of just accept the fact that Fido’s breath smells like week-old garbage.
But dental disease is a real problem among dogs. Not only can it affect how a dog’s breath smells, and how comfortably they can eat, it can also lead to infections in other areas of the body, mainly the heart.
It is important for us, as pet lovers, to raise awareness and encourage owners to pay more attention to their canine’s canines—pun intended. If you need guidance on keeping your dog's dental hygiene healthy, we suggest you speak to a vet.
If you have a question about your dog's health or behavior, why not Ask a Vet for free? Our veterinary team answers reader questions and provides trusted advice to help you better understand your dog.
Conclusion
If possible, don’t share a toothbrush between dogs. You run the risk of potentially cross-contaminating one or the other. Practice good hygiene and use your own discretion when necessary.
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to your veterinarian for professional advice. They will be able to guide you on the best route to maintaining proper dental hygiene for your dogs.
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Sources
Featured Image Credit: Buday Anatoliy, Shutterstock
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Ashley Bates is a freelance dog writer and pet enthusiast who is currently studying the art of animal therapy. A mother to four human children— and 23 furry and feathery kids, too – Ashley volunteers at local shelters, advocates for animal well-being, and rescues every creature in need. Her mission is to create awareness, education, and entertainment about pets to prevent homelessness. Her specialties are dogs and cats.
