How often should Poodles get their teeth cleaned?

Poodles—whether toy, miniature, or standard—have unique dental needs that owners can’t afford to overlook. Those curly coats and playful personalities often steal the spotlight, but their teeth? They’re working overtime, especially with all those treats and kibble. Unlike some breeds, Poodles tend to develop tartar buildup faster, thanks to their smaller jaws (in the toy and mini varieties) or deeper gum pockets in larger standards. That means their teeth need consistent attention to stay healthy.​

So, how often is enough? For adult Poodles, vets typically recommend a professional teeth cleaning every 6 to 12 months. But here’s the thing: puppies under a year old might not need pro cleanings as often—their baby teeth fall out, and establishing good habits matters more. Toy Poodles, with their tiny mouths, can see tartar cling quicker, so leaning toward the 6-month mark makes sense. Standards, with their sturdier jaws, might stretch to a year if at-home care is solid.​

Daily brushing isn’t just a “nice to have”—it’s a game-changer. Most Poodle owners find that a soft-bristled brush and dog-specific toothpaste keeps plaque from turning into hard tartar. Skipping this? Tartar hardens in as little as 48 hours, and once it’s there, only a pro can remove it. I’ve met a mini Poodle named Lulu whose owner thought “chew toys would do the trick.” By age 3, she needed a deep cleaning under anesthesia to fix inflamed gums—avoidable with regular brushing.​

Professional cleanings aren’t just about looks. Vets in states like California and New York now include dental checks in mandatory wellness exams for licensed dogs, part of laws aimed at preventing painful (and expensive) dental issues. A 2023 survey from the American Veterinary Dental College found 72% of Poodles over 5 show signs of periodontal disease, often because owners waited too long between cleanings. That’s not just painful for your pup—it can lead to tooth loss or even infections spreading to the heart.​

What counts as “too long”? If your Poodle starts avoiding hard food, pawing at their mouth, or has bad breath that won’t fade with a minty chew, it’s past time. Those are red flags for gingivitis or worse. Even if they seem fine, skipping a scheduled cleaning could land you on the wrong side of local laws—some counties in Florida, for example, require proof of annual dental care for dogs in public parks or boarding facilities.​

At-home care and pro cleanings work hand in hand. Think of it like your own dental routine: brushing daily keeps things manageable, but twice-yearly checkups catch what you miss. Poodles are smart—they’ll get used to the brush if you start young, turning it into a bonding ritual instead of a fight. And when it’s time for the vet, ask for a pre-cleaning exam to check for loose teeth or infections—most clinics include this in the service, and it’s covered under many pet insurance plans.​

Your Poodle’s smile says a lot about their health. Waiting until there’s a problem isn’t just hard on them—it’s harder on your wallet. Sticking to that 6-12 month schedule for pro cleanings, paired with daily brushes, keeps those teeth strong, their breath fresh, and you both happy. After all, a Poodle with healthy teeth is one that can keep fetching, chewing, and stealing treats for years to come.