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Is it safe to brush my dog's teeth with coconut oil and baking soda?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Siberian Husky | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 6 months old

Can I use coconut oil and baking soda to brush my dog's teeth?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 19th, 2019

I wouldn’t recommend using this combination to brush your dog’s teeth. While the coconut oil probably tastes good, it will just add unwanted calories to your dog’s diet, even if you are using a small amount. And the baking soda will be too harsh and abrasive for your dog. Instead I would recommend a toothpaste specifically made for dog’s. Or, you don’t even have to use toothpaste at all! The most important part of brushing a dog’s teeth is the mechanical action of brushing away the plaque that builds up on the teeth! If you do this daily it will go a long way to helping your dog’s teeth stay nice and healthy. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck!

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