Type of food, real bones, and the denta-bone type chew bones all can help in cleaning teeth. I try to brush Sadie's teeth as often as I can because it is very important. She uses poultry flavor toothpaste and does like the taste. We use a brush and the rubber finger thing - the finger thing works great, easy to use on a dog who isn't thrilled about the experience.

I'd rather not go to the vet since I can't really afford it, and if putting the dog to sleep was involved forget it! It really isn't that difficult at home.

I got my brush kit from my vet but I've seen them in most pet stores.