Brushing your Golden Retriever's teeth may seem a bit extreme to you but it can save you a bundle down the road in veterinary care. Goldens don't usually develop a lot of plaque and tartar on their teeth, but preventative dental care can help keep the quality of their lives at a healthy high. There are many dog toothpastes on the market today that should be applied to the teeth with a soft brush or gauze pad. Most dogs like the taste, as they are flavored, and will tolerate a quick wipe better than a full-blown brushing.

Using a dental instrument to remove plaque and tartar isn't recommended, since using it to scrape the teeth often leaves grooves in the enamel, which will attract more plaque in the future. If you can't wipe or brush the plaque off easily, consider having your dog's teeth cleaned professionally.