New toy allows dogs to brush their own teeth

Photos courtesy of Woof.

Woof, the dog toy maker known for the Pupsicle, is back with a new product aimed at improving dogs’ daily dental hygiene: the Bite n’ Brush. The V-shaped toy has a hollow center, meant to hold treats and encourage chewing. The treats are exposed to dogs through open slots, surrounded by bristles, which brush the dogs’ teeth while they chew. With similar functionality to a human toothbrush, Woof is selling the Bite n’ Brush as a toothbrush for dogs.¹

“The Bite n’ Brush is more than just a toy; it’s a game-changer in canine dental care,” Daniel Haarburger, founder and CEO of Woof, said in a news release.¹ “Traditional methods of maintaining a dog’s teeth, such as toothbrushing or professional cleanings, can be expensive and stressful for both pets and their owners.”¹

A 2020 questionnaire study conducted by BMC Veterinary Research found that less than 4% of dog owners brushed their dog’s teeth daily. Of dog owners who did not already report daily brushing, 27.2% would consider adding it to their daily routine. According to the same study, periodontal disease remains the most common disease in dogs older than 3 years. The prevalence of periodontal disease is reported as high as 89%, though it is largely preventable by toothbrushing.²

Although nearly 95% of responding Veterinarians recommend toothbrushing to improve dental health,2 alternative dental products can still be effective. A Rutgers University study by Lindsay Gallagher on “The Effect of Dental Products and Natural Chews on Canine Oral Bacteria” tested the efficacy of 4 distinct options for dog dental care: C.E.T. enzymatic toothpaste, C.E.T VeggieDent canine chews, bully sticks, and raw marrow bones. The study found each of the products to be successful in reducing bacteria on the dog’s teeth, and none of the treatment options were statistically different.³

“The Bite n’ Brush makes dog oral care fun,” Haarburger said. “This really is a novel solution for dog owners everywhere.”1 The new product comes in sizes for both small (<30lbs) and large (≥30lbs) dogs. The treat slots are designed to hold Woof’s Dental Refills, made from ingredients like parsley, green tea extract, and peppermint oil.Each ingredient was chosen for their unique dental benefits, ranging from freshening breath to reducing plaque formation.¹

Dog owners who want to give the Bite n’ Brush a try can do so for $19.99, regardless of size. Dental refills are available for $14.99, and the Bite n’ Brush Starter Pack –consisting of the product with 1 dental refill pack–is available online for $29.99.¹

References

1. Woof Revolutionizes Dog Dental Care with the Bite n’ Brush. News Release. Woof. August 6, 2024. Accessed August 6, 2024. https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/woof-revolutionizes-dog-dental-care-with-the-bite-n-brush-302212710.html
2. Enlund KB, Brunius C, Hanson J, et al. Dental home care in dogs-a questionnaire study among Swedish dog owners, veterinarians and veterinary nurses. BMC Vet Res. 2020;16(1):90. doi:10.1186/s12917-020-02281-y
3. Gallagher L. The effect of dental products and natural chews on canine oral bacteria. J Biol Sci. 2014. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://jbs.camden.rutgers.edu/index/letters-general-microbiology-2014/effect-dental-products-and-natural-chews-canine-oral-bacteria-lindsay-gallagher/