Frequently Asked Questions

The following questions are the most frequently asked, and the answers should help clarify some of the more common misconceptions about cosmetic dog teeth cleaning.

Where are you located?

What services do you offer?

Where do you travel to?

How long is the appointment usually?

For new clients we’ll start with a consultation first and then follow with a cleaning if your dog is a candidate. Consultations typically last between 5-10 minutes, while the teeth cleaning itself takes about 10-25 minutes. We use an UltraSonic scaler, which is both time-efficient and gentle on your dog’s teeth. After the cleaning, your dog is promptly reunited with you, as we do not kennel our clients. This approach helps make the entire process quick and as stress-free as possible for both you and your pet.

How can you clean a dog's teeth while it's wiggling around on your lap?

Most of our smaller doggies are gently swaddled in our laps during the teeth cleaning process, while larger dogs are comfortably settled on our cozy cleaning bed. We offer a variety of positioning options to ensure we maintain control while keeping your dog relaxed and at ease. Our team is highly trained to work with dogs of all personalities, allowing us to provide effective care with minimal stress for your pet.

What is the cost of a teeth cleaning?

Teeth cleaning quotes range from $70 – $200, depending on the amount of plaque buildup and the number of teeth that need to be cleaned. The first appointment includes a consultation to determine if your dog is a good candidate for cosmetic teeth cleaning. If we don’t find any issues that need veterinary attention, we’ll provide you with a quote for the cleaning, which can be performed immediately. However, if we detect any concerns in your dog’s mouth, we will not proceed with the cleaning. The consultation fee is $45.

When should I bring my puppy in?

We typically see dogs around the age of 1 for their first teeth cleaning. To help prepare your pup for a visit with us, the groomer, or the vet, it’s best to start getting them accustomed to having their teeth cleaned at home. Regularly handling their mouth—whether it’s looking inside, brushing, or wiping their teeth—will help desensitize them and make the process much easier. Consistency is key!

We recommend starting to wipe / brush your dog’s teeth or simply getting your hands in there to gently inspect their mouth. A baby toothbrush works great as it’s gentle and easy to handle.

We also offer locally made, organic toothpaste that the pups love! If you’d like, we’d be happy to discuss our toothpaste and brushing techniques with you—feel free to stop by the store during business hours.

Won’t my dog panic when you attempt to use tools in their mouth?

We work one-on-one with your dog to build trust and approach each pet with patience and care. Animals are highly sensitive to energy, and our team has years of experience working with them. Our calm and confident demeanor helps put pets at ease, allowing them to feel more comfortable throughout the process. We introduce the tools gradually, and once your pet realizes there’s no pain involved, most dogs are happy to allow us to continue with the cleaning.

Can clients stay in the room during the cleaning?

Unfortunately, we do not allow clients to stay in the room while their pet is being worked on. It’s important for us to build a trusting relationship with your pup, based on communication and comfort. When an owner stays, it can create confusion for the dog and form a barrier that makes it more difficult for us to establish that trust and connection. We appreciate your understanding and encourage you to relax in our reception area or explore the shopping centre while we care for your dog!

Are old dogs that have health issues candidates for anesthetic-free teeth cleaning?

Can Happy Tails perform cleanings on every dog?

No, not all dogs are candidates for our services. Dogs with dental disease, fractured teeth, or loose teeth may not be suitable for our cleaning procedure. Additionally, some dogs may have behavioral or temperament traits that make the process too stressful or unsafe, in which case we would recommend a veterinary teeth cleaning instead. Our team is experienced in recognizing these issues and will discuss the best course of action for your dog to ensure their well-being.

How do you handle aggressive or fearful dogs?

During the consultation, we can usually assess your dog’s temperament within the first few minutes to determine if they are a good candidate for a cleaning. In most cases, we are able to calm fearful dogs with our gentle touch and calm energy. However, if your dog displays highly aggressive behavior, they will not be a suitable candidate for anesthetic-free cleanings. In such cases, we may recommend a veterinary teeth cleaning instead.