Human toothpastes should never be used for your pet. They contain ingredients that can cause stomach upset or digestive problems when swallowed—plus, we know pets can’t spit! Human toothpastes also may contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs, or have high levels of sodium that can make your pet sick. Also avoid using baking soda as a toothpaste alternative. Due to its high alkaline content, baking soda can upset the acid balance in the stomach and digestive tract—and it tastes awful!