Can dogs use human toothpaste?

If you’re beginning to put together an oral routine, that can help to manage your dog’s oral health, you may have a few questions. One of which is: Can dogs use human toothpaste? The short answer is no. Dogs should use a toothpaste that’s specifically designed for them. If you want the long answer, below is a brief explanation as to why human toothpaste is no good for dogs.
Fluoride
Fluoride can be toxic. Some human toothpaste has enough fluoride to poison your canine—if consumed on a regular basis.
Below are some symptoms to be aware of, if your dog ingest too much fluoride:
- Restlessness
- Drool
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- No Bladder Control
- Weakness
- Sporadic Limping
- Teeth Discoloration
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is a chemical found in shampoos, soaps, detergents and toothpaste. SLS helps to create the foam that these products make when used. If a high enough level of SLS is consumed by your dog, it can cause gastrointestinal upset.
Xylitol
Xylitol is a substitute for sugar that is used in foods and products for hygiene. It’s also known to help fight tooth decay. This is why it is used as an ingredient to sweeten toothpaste and enhance dental health. However, Xylitol has been linked to causing low blood sugar in dogs and damage to the liver. These issues can be fatal.
In conclusion, when it comes to your dog’s oral health, it’s best to use a toothpaste that is designed especially for dogs. In addition, it’s important to check the label for ingredients, that may be hazardous to your pet’s health. Hopefully this article can help you make an informed choice, concerning your dogs oral health. Thanks for reading “Can dogs use human toothpaste?”