Frequent Questions

How does Paw & Parker work?

It's simple: you add one tablespoon (15ml) to your dog's 500ml bowl of drinking water each day. As your dog drinks normally throughout the day, the active ingredients work in the mouth to help support cleaner teeth and fresher breath — no brushing, no rinsing, no fuss.

What do the ingredients in Paw & Parker actually do?

Aqua (Water) — The base of the formula that delivers the active ingredients into your dog's mouth.

Sodium Citrate — Helps balance the pH of the formula and has mild antimicrobial properties to reduce harmful bacteria in the mouth.

Zinc Citrate — A mineral that supports oral health by strengthening teeth and gums. Zinc is naturally antimicrobial, helping prevent plaque-forming bacteria.

Sodium Benzoate & Potassium Sorbate — Preservatives that keep the product safe and fresh. These prevent bacterial and fungal growth while the bottle is open. (Note: These are the non-natural components, that make up 0.6% of our formula.)

Citric Acid — Creates a slightly acidic environment that discourages plaque and tartar buildup on teeth. It also contributes to fresher breath.

Sodium Bicarbonate — Neutralizes odors and acidity in the mouth, helping combat bad breath naturally.

Together, these ingredients work to reduce plaque, freshen breath, and support overall oral health—all delivered simply through drinking water.

What's in that 0.6%?

The 0.6% consists of our preservative system. While the preservative is partially of natural origin, it also contains non-natural components—either in the active ingredient itself or in other components of the preservative mixture.

Many products with similar formulations use comparable preservative systems. What matters is transparency and safety—we're upfront about the trade-off between natural ingredients and product stability.

Is it safe for daily use?

Yes — it's formulated for gentle, everyday use and is free from alcohol, parabens, fluoride, artificial colours, sweeteners and flavours. Always dilute before use and don't use it neat.

Are there any side effects I should know about?

Paw & Parker is formulated to be safe for daily use and well-tolerated by most dogs. However, as with any product, some dogs may experience sensitivity:

  • Mild digestive changes — In rare cases, introducing the additive may cause slight changes in digestion. This typically resolves within a few days as your dog adjusts.
  • Allergic reactions — Though uncommon, some dogs may be sensitive to specific ingredients. If your dog shows signs of an allergic reaction (excessive drooling, swelling, difficulty swallowing), discontinue use and consult your veterinarian.
  • Interaction with existing conditions — If your dog has kidney disease, heart conditions, or other health concerns, consult your vet before use, particularly regarding sodium content.

Start gradually — When introducing Paw & Parker, add it to your dog's water slowly over a few days rather than switching entirely at once. This helps their system adjust smoothly.

If you notice any unusual behavior or symptoms after starting the product, stop use and speak with your veterinarian.

Do I need to brush my dog's teeth as well?

No brushing required. Paw & Parker is designed to fit into your dog's day with zero effort — they simply drink their water as normal. It's ideal for dogs that won't tolerate brushing, or owners who don't have time for it.

My dog has existing dental problems—will this help?

Paw & Parker is designed to maintain oral health and prevent future plaque and tartar buildup—it's most effective as a preventative measure.

For dogs with existing issues:

  • Mild plaque/tartar — The product may help slow progression and prevent further buildup, but existing buildup won't disappear.
  • Advanced dental disease — If your dog has significant tartar, gum disease, or tooth decay, professional cleaning by your veterinarian is necessary. Paw & Parker can be used alongside professional care to help maintain improvements long-term.
  • Tooth pain or loose teeth — Stop use and consult your vet immediately. These require professional intervention.

Best approach: Have your vet assess your dog's current dental health. If professional cleaning is recommended, get that done first, then use Paw & Parker to maintain the results.

How long until I see a difference?

Every dog is different. Some owners notice fresher breath within the first couple of weeks, while plaque and tartar support builds with consistent daily use. The key is using it every day as part of their routine.

Will my dog notice it in their water?

It's fragrance-free and formulated to keep water tasting as it should, so most dogs drink it exactly as they normally would.

How long will a bottle of Paw & Parker Dental Water Additive last?

Add one capful to your pet's drinking water daily. Based on this usage, a single bottle will last approximately 1 month.

Is this a substitute for professional dental care?

No. Paw & Parker is a preventative maintenance tool, not a replacement for professional veterinary dental care.

What Paw & Parker does:

  • Reduces plaque and tartar formation between cleanings
  • Freshens breath
  • Supports ongoing oral health
  • Extends the time between professional cleanings (for some dogs)

What Paw & Parker doesn't do:

  • Remove existing tartar or heavy plaque buildup
  • Treat advanced gum disease or infections
  • Replace professional dental cleanings when needed

The ideal approach: Think of it like brushing your own teeth at home—it's essential maintenance, but you still need a professional dentist for deep cleaning and treatment. Similarly, Paw & Parker maintains your dog's daily oral health, but professional veterinary care should remain part of your dog's overall health plan.

Your vet can advise how often your individual dog needs professional cleaning and how Paw & Parker fits into that routine.

Do you have a timeline for switching to a fully natural formulation?

We're constantly reviewing new ingredient options. However, we won't compromise on product safety and shelf life. If a fully natural alternative becomes available that meets our safety and stability standards, we'd consider it. Contact us if you have specific concerns.