Many of us have gone to the dentist starting at an early age. Over the years, you were probably told about the importance of fluoride for strengthening our teeth and preventing decay and why fluoride is often added to many different dental products, such as mouthwash and toothpaste. Fluoride is absorbed into the enamel of your teeth, which is how it helps to strengthen it. If your pet comes across a tube of toothpaste, they might think it looks like a fun toy and chew on it. You may even consider brushing your dog’s teeth with your toothpaste. This can lead to inadvertent ingestion of fluoride.

The good news is, fluoride consumed in small amounts is not severely toxic for your pet. Usually, mild signs of gastrointestinal upset, such as diarrhea and vomiting, are seem if only a small amount is consumed. More serious side effects, such as heart and central nervous system signs, can develop with large ingestions. Management of these side effects requires hospitalization and monitoring by your veterinarian.

For pets who consume fluoride toothpaste, the focus is on preventing further absorption of the fluoride in the stomach. Specific treatment should be done under the guidance of your veterinarian or a professional at Pet Poison Helpline.

Overall, ingestion of a small amount of fluoride toothpaste may cause mild self-limiting signs. However, if your pet has signs that last longer than 12 hours or are repeatedly vomiting, you should consult a veterinarian and the Pet Poison Helpline for treatment recommendations.

Written by:

Hailey Everhart, Pet Poison Helpline DVM Student Extern, Iowa State University, Class of 2025

Samantha Koch, CVT, Associate Pet Poison Helpline Representative II, Lead Shift Technician