Can Dogs Use Human Toothpaste? Here's What Most Dog Parents Don't Know
By Dr Joe Inglis BVSc MRCVS ·
Can dogs use human toothpaste? Discover which ingredients to avoid, why dog toothpaste is different and what vets recommend for brushing your dog's teeth.
This week I was sent a video by a UK Vet, Dr. Alex, who was discussing the importance of in-clinic teeth cleaning. While watching, I saw in the comments a lot of pet parents asking if they can use human toothpaste for their dogs. Unfortunately, the answer is no. You’re better off using toothpaste made for dogs. Here is why.
Why Shouldn't Dogs Use Human Toothpaste?
Unlike us, dogs don’t spit out their toothpaste, so they end up swallowing whatever we use to brush their teeth.
There are two ingredients found in human toothpaste that can be harmful to dogs.
Xylitol
This is the one that really concerns us. Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that is used in some adult and children's toothpastes. It's safe for people, but it can be extremely toxic to dogs.
When a dog swallows xylitol, it can trigger a sudden release of insulin, causing their blood sugar to drop dangerously low. In serious cases, it can cause seizures, liver damage and even death.
Not every human toothpaste contains xylitol, but the outcome can be severe enough that it's not worth the risk.
Fluoride
Fluoride is a common ingredient in human toothpaste because it helps protect our teeth against decay. But remember, dogs swallow their toothpaste.
Swallowing a little fluoride toothpaste usually isn't a concern, but larger amounts can cause vomiting and diarrhoea.
The Purpose and Ingredients in Dog Toothpaste are Different
Besides the ingredients, the purpose of a dog toothpaste and human toothpaste are actually different. Human toothpaste is designed largely around preventing tooth decay, whereas canine dental care focuses heavily on plaque and periodontal (gum) disease.
Human toothpaste often contains foaming agents like sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), which help spread toothpaste around your mouth and loosen debris. Dogs don't need all that foam, especially since they end up swallowing it.
Dog toothpaste, on the other hand, is formulated to be swallowed as directed. Our own toothpaste Sparkle & Shine Dental Gel uses ingredients like calcium carbonate to help polish teeth, magnolia bark extract, which has been studied for its antibacterial properties, and Lactobacillus ferment to help control plaque build-up. It is a gel, so it's easy to spread across your dog's teeth.
Dogs Like Different Flavours Than We do
Lastly, there’s the practical side of using human toothpaste. If you’re going to brush your dog’s teeth, you want to make it as easy as possible. And if they don’t like the taste of the toothpaste, you’re already making things harder.
We humans love that minty taste, but many dogs find these flavours too intense. In fact, mint isn’t just a flavour. Menthol activates the sensory receptors that create that tingly feeling in our mouths. Dogs have these receptors too, and research suggests that many dogs find this discomforting.
That doesn’t mean every dog dislikes mint, but why make brushing harder than it needs to be?
What Do We Use at Luna?
At Luna, we've developed our own Sparkle & Shine Dental Gel, formulated for dogs and cats. Our vet team carefully selected each of the ingredients.
Here are some of the key ingredients we use and why.
- Magnolia Bark Extract: Contains natural compounds studied for their antibacterial activity against oral bacteria linked to plaque, gum disease and bad breath.
- Lactobacillus Ferment: A 2025 study found that Lactobacillus-derived postbiotic helped reduce plaque and improve the oral microbiome.
- Calcium Carbonate: A mineral used to help polish teeth and remove surface deposits.
- Fermented Willow Bark Extract: A plant ingredient with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Vitamin E: An antioxidant that has also been studied for its potential role in gum health.
Sparkle & Shine is a gel, making it easy to use alongside a Luna finger brush or pet toothbrush.
Not Sure About Your Dog's Dental Health?
One thing we always remind dog parents at Luna is that brushing is brilliant for prevention, but it can't fix every dental problem.
If your dog already has significant tartar, inflamed gums or painful teeth, they may need professional dental care.
That's why we offer FREE dental health checks at Luna.
Our team can take a look at your dog's teeth and gums, talk through any concerns and help you understand whether further dental care is needed.