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Ensuring your canine BFF has good oral health is a must for their overall wellbeing.
But choosing the right dental toy can be tricky, so we’ve compiled a list of our top picks for best dog dental toys in 2023 – each carefully chosen based on research-backed recommendations from experts.
From KONG Dental Toy Large Dogs to Arm Hammer Dog Dental Toy and more; this guide will tell you all that you need to know about why dogs need these chews, how they work as well as what benefits come along with them.
Read on for everything you should consider when selecting one of these treats or chews so your pup gets all the oral love they deserve!
Table Of Contents
Top 9 Best Dental Toys for Dogs
Looking for the best dental toys to keep your pup’s teeth and gums healthy? Here is a list of nine top-rated products that are vet-recommended, from Pedigree Dentastix Dog Treats to Nylabone Power Chew Chicken XL.
These chewable treats have been clinically proven to reduce plaque and tartar buildup while providing fresh breath, cleaning down to the gumline, and controlling bacterial growth.
Pedigree Dentastix Dog Treats
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Enjoy the benefits of Pedigree Dentastix Dog Treats, clinically proven to reduce plaque and tartar buildup while treating your pup with a tasty reward! These chewable treats feature an X-shape design that scrapes away plaque and tartar from down to the gumline.
Perfect for small and medium breed dogs 15-40 lbs, these rawhide-free dental chews are made in the USA using quality global ingredients.
Dental health is vital for dogs, which makes this product a great option as part of their regular routine.
- Clinically proven to reduce plaque & tartar buildup
- Unique X-shape design scrapes away down to gumline
- Patented ingredient system freshens breath
- Hard consistency may be concerning for some owners
- Dogs with sensitive stomachs may not tolerate
- Pricey compared to other options
OraVet Small Dog Chews
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Try OraVet Small Dog Chews for a clinically-proven way to reduce plaque and tartar buildup in your pup’s mouth. These once-a-day chews contain delmopinol, which creates a barrier preventing bacterial attachment.
Easily digestible with wag-worthy flavor, these treats are perfect for small breed dogs weighing 15 – 40 lbs who struggle with maintaining dental health.
Vets recommend OraVet Small Dog Chews as an easy and convenient oral care option that is reasonably priced.
- Clinically proven to reduce plaque and tartar
- Delmopinol creates a barrier against bacteria
- Easy digestion and palatable flavor
- No ingredients listed, which may be concerning
- Hard consistency could be difficult for some breeds to chew
- May upset sensitive stomachs of dogs missing teeth
Greenies Dental Dog Treats
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Give your pup a tasty treat with Greenies Dental Dog Treats, the vet-recommended way to keep their teeth and gums healthy. Made in the USA with quality global ingredients, these natural dog treats are rawhide-free and formulated specifically for adult medium breed dogs.
The unique texture helps clean down to the gumline while fighting plaque and tartar buildup – all while giving them an irresistible flavor they’ll love! Plus, it’s enriched with essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that help promote fresh breath too.
Reviewers love this product as it keeps their pet’s dental health in check without having to resort to brushing or expensive professional cleanings every time! They also report that dogs get excited when given a Greenie treat – making oral care much easier than before.
- Vet recommended for at-home dental care
- Irresistibly chewy texture helps remove plaque and tartar
- Contains highly soluble ingredients for safe and easy digestion
- Provides vitamins, minerals, and nutrients
- Dogs love the taste
- Pricey compared to other products
- Limited size range not suitable for large breed dogs
Milk Bone Dog Treats Dental Chews
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Give your pup a dental treat that’s clinically proven to fight bad breath and reduce tartar buildup with Milk Bone Dog Treats Dental Chews! These vet-recommended chews are designed for all adult dogs, including small and medium breeds.
Not only do they feature 12 essential vitamins and minerals, but the patented twisted shape helps to clean hard-to-reach teeth.
Dogs love the delicious chicken flavor that keeps their teeth and breath fresh. It’s an easy way to maintain oral hygiene without having to brush twice weekly.
- Clinically proven to be as effective as brushing twice weekly
- Contains 12 essential vitamins and minerals
- Patented twisted shape cleans hard-to-reach teeth
- Delicious chicken flavor enjoyed by dogs
- Maintains oral health without needing regular brushing
- Reasonable price point
- May not be suitable for smaller dog breeds
- Some ingredients may cause digestive issues
Virbac Cet Medium Dog Chews
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Virbac Cet Medium Dog Chews are a vet-recommended dental chew specifically designed for adult medium breed dogs that helps reduce tartar buildup – but how effective is it really? This innovative dental chew features an exclusive Z-shape design which aids with chewing and grasping, plus a delicious veggie flavor.
It’s also rawhide-free and contains 12 essential vitamins and minerals to keep your pup healthy.
- Vet recommended for dental health
- Delicious veggie flavor that dogs seem to love
- Rawhide-free with 12 essential vitamins & minerals
- Patented Z-shape design helps with chewing/grasping
- Pricey for daily use
- Contains corn which some owners avoid
- Quality issues reported (hard, brittle)
- Questions about the effectiveness of reducing tartar
Overall, Virbac Cet Medium Dog Chews offer many benefits in terms of freshening breath and helping reduce plaque build-up on teeth. However, there may be potential drawbacks such as price or quality concerns depending on individual cases.
DentaLife Dog Treats Small Medium
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DentaLife Dog Treats Small Medium can help freshen breath and reduce plaque and tartar for adult small to medium breed dogs with their scientifically tested porous texture. These treats are approved by the VOHC, making them a great option for dental health.
Thousands of air pockets create a chewy yet porous texture that helps scrub teeth clean while the 8 distinct ridges penetrate down to the gumline. Customers also report improved dental health, fresh breath, and dogs loving the taste of these chicken-flavored treats! However, some customers have had issues with digestibility or hardness of these treats, so results may vary depending on your dog’s chewing strength and habits.
For best results, use daily in conjunction with other oral care products such as toothbrushes or rinse solutions recommended by your vet.
- VOHC approved for dental health
- More affordable than other similar options
- Porous yet chewy texture scrubs teeth clean & freshens breath
- May leave crumbs/bits on the floor as the dog eats
- Texture & hardness not suitable for all breeds
- Results may vary depending on chewing strength
KONG Dental Toy Large Dogs
KONG’s Dental Toy for large dogs is made of durable natural rubber and helps clean teeth, massage gums, and prevent plaque and tartar buildup. The hollow interior can be filled with treats to help keep your pup occupied while promoting dental health.
Plus, the patented Denta-Ridges clean down to the gumline while freshening breath.
This toy offers an easy way to maintain your dog’s oral hygiene without having them endure regular brushing or vet trips for professional cleaning treatments! It measures 5.5 inches long, which makes it ideal for larger breeds over 30-65 lbs, as well as aggressive chewers who may otherwise destroy other toys quickly.
- Durable natural rubber formula
- Hollow interior can be filled with treats
- Patented Dent-Ridges clean teeth & massage gums
- Supervision required at first use
- More expensive than other toys
- Grooves are messy when filling holes
Arm Hammer Dog Dental Toy
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Arm & Hammer’s Gorilla Treadz dental chew toy is the perfect way to keep your pup’s teeth and gums healthy while providing hours of entertainment! Made from natural rubber, this durable toy is stuffing-free and squeaker-free.
It features tire-like treads that help reduce tartar and plaque. Additionally, it contains Arm & Hammer baking soda for fresher breath.
The fun gorilla shape keeps dogs busy without destroying other items in the house. It is available in a size suitable for dogs up to 35 lbs., making it an ideal choice among pet owners looking for an effective yet entertaining way to promote oral health care at home.
- Durable enough even for aggressive chewers
- Tire treads help remove tartar/plaque buildup
- Infused with Arm & Hammer baking soda
- Fun gorilla shape keeps pups entertained
- Not suitable if the dog has a sensitive stomach or allergies
- May not last as long as expected
- Can become boring quickly
Nylabone Power Chew Chicken XL
Nylabone’s Power Chew Chicken XL tantalizes tastebuds and tames tartar with its toothsome texture, making it a terrific treat for your tail-wagger. Designed specifically for large dogs weighing over 50 lbs., this durable chew toy is made of natural nylon material that can withstand powerful chewing sessions.
The chicken flavor keeps your pup occupied while discouraging destructive behaviors such as furniture gnawing.
Plus, unlike real bones, which can splinter and crack, Nylabone’s Power Chew won’t create any mess in the house.
- Durable construction designed specifically for large dogs
- Tantalizing chicken flavor discourages destructive behavior
- Hollow interior great for filling with treats or peanut butter
- Safer alternative than real bones that may splinter/crack
- Can leave specks around from chewing
- May develop sharp edges after prolonged use
Why Do Dogs Need Dental Chew Toys?
Dental chew toys are important for your pup’s dental health. They help promote good hygiene by scrubbing away plaque and tartar buildup, stimulating blood flow to the gums, and preventing bacteria from building up in their mouth.
Promotes Dental Hygiene
Dental chew toys help promote your pup’s oral hygiene, cleaning plaque buildup while they have fun! Chewing on these toys can provide interactive dental care and scrub away tartar. Products like KONG classic are durable for aggressive chewers and may dispense treats too.
Nubs scrape plaque from teeth, stimulating gums to keep them healthy with fresh breath. Squeakers will motivate biting in cactus-shaped chews, while deep grooves clean all tooth areas in a rubber ball toy.
Greenies, Pedigree Dentastix, Milk Bone Brushing Chews are VOHC approved; consider size & action when choosing one – vets recommend brushing weekly plus annual cleanings for preventive pet health care & adjust dog diet accordingly to maintain good dental hygiene daily.
Helps Clean Plaque and Tartar
By investing in dental chew toys, you can help your pup keep their teeth clean and free of plaque and tartar buildup – like a knight with a shining armor defending against the dragon’s breath. Chews mechanically remove bacteria from teeth while promoting oral hygiene. Veterinarians recommend incorporating them into an overall dental diet to combat bad dog breath caused by treat ingestion or inadequate brushing.
Look for veterinary advice on the right size chews that reduce tartar, promote freshness, and clean all areas of the tooth surface.
To maximize effectiveness, look for chew toy durability as well as ingredients that aim to reduce plaque, such as delmopinol or baking soda-infused products! Dental chews provide interactive care via chewing, which helps protect canine health long-term better than traditional brushing alone!
Stimulates Blood Flow to Gums
Treat your pup to toys that stimulate their gums with blood flow, making playtime beneficial for dental hygiene. Toothbrush stick toys and multifunctional tooth cleaning balls are great options – they massage gums while scraping plaque buildup.
Nubs provide fresh breath and prevent bacteria and tartar from forming. Squeakers help motivate aggressive chewers, while deep grooves clean teeth areas on various shapes of toys like cactus or corn cob designs.
Look out for treats or peanut butter-infused chews, as well as rubber bristles, to further benefit gum health! Dental chew toys can be an effective tool in the pursuit of oral hygiene without having to use a toothbrush – perfect for pups who may not enjoy it otherwise!
For optimal benefits, ensure you select one suitable size-wise based on breed type. Smaller breeds should avoid choking hazards. Also, check nutritional info so you can adjust food portions accordingly when needed too.
Prevents Bacteria Buildup
Using dental chew toys can help prevent bacteria buildup and maintain your pup’s healthy teeth and gums – but how do you know which ones are best? Consider the chew size, dental hygiene benefits like tartar reduction, and bacterial prevention.
Look for rope or rubber treats with toothbrush designs that target all areas of the teeth. Vet cleanings should be scheduled annually to ensure optimal care while incorporating dental treats into the routine will enhance protection between visits.
How to Choose the Right Dog Dental Chew Toy?
When choosing the right dog dental chew toy for your pup, it’s important to consider durability, size, flavor, and potential hazards. Look for a product that is made from sturdy materials like rubber or nylon, which can stand up to aggressive chewing.
Make sure the treat fits appropriately with your pet’s size and breed – too small of treats may be choking hazards, while larger toys may not provide adequate oral stimulation. Lastly, look at what flavors are available as some pups prefer certain tastes over others.
Durability
When choosing a dental chew toy, consider its durability to ensure it lasts for aggressive chewers. Check the size of the toy for your dog’s breed and the nutritional information regarding calorie intake.
Consult with your veterinarian on selecting appropriate toys that are safe and effective in cleaning teeth. Choose shapes and features like treat dispensing that will protect teeth while providing an enjoyable chewing experience for your pup.
Rawhide chews can be hazardous, so make sure you choose those endorsed by vets, as they provide dental care benefits such as reducing tartar buildup or whitening teeth when used correctly according to their instructions.
Size
Consider the size of your pup when selecting a dental chew toy to make sure it’s appropriate and safe. Dog breeds vary in size, as do treat options. If you choose one that’s too small, there’s a risk of choking or bacterial reduction from consuming too many calories at once.
Toy shape and flavor should also be taken into account, as they can affect plaque buildup on teeth while providing an interactive way to promote regular dental hygiene habits. Different toys are available for different sizes of dogs. Look out for VOHC certification indicating chews reduce tartar and plaque by 15-20%.
Be mindful not to give puppies under 6 months old any chew toys due to developmental issues with their teeth cleanings.
Flavor
Taste the difference with dental chews in a variety of flavors to satisfy your pup’s cravings. From beef and chicken to peanut butter and coconut, dog owners can find flavor diversity that appeals to their pet.
While considering ingredient safety for calorie control, it is important to look into dental science when selecting digestible chews like gluten-free options. Pet nutrition labels can also help determine if chewing will aid in tooth decay prevention or not.
Hazards
Be sure to watch out for hazards when picking out a dental chew toy for your pup. Some might be too small or hard, leading to choking and mouth injuries. Look before you buy; inspect the ingredients list and check if it contains any toxic components that may put your dog’s health at risk.
Choose toys in the proper size – not too big nor tiny – taking into account the chewing behavior and strength of jaws of your pet breed.
Dental sticks are a great way to improve gum disease and freshen breath while providing a good source of entertainment.
What Are Dental Treats and Chews for Dogs?
Dental treats and chews for dogs are a fun way to improve your pup’s dental health. Not only do they help remove plaque and tartar buildup, but many also provide additional benefits like fresher breath, healthier gums, and teeth whitening.
They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and textures – from sticks to balls – making them ideal interactive toys that keep your pup entertained while benefiting their oral hygiene.
Definition and Purpose
Experience the joy of watching your pooch benefit from dental chews and treats, designed to clean their teeth and gums while providing them with a tasty reward! Dental hygiene is important for all dogs, regardless of size.
When choosing a chew toy, consider dog size, durability, as well as cleaning action. Treat portions should be adjusted according to nutritional info; the maximum of 10% of calories should come from treats.
Greenies, Dentastix, and Pedigree Chew Toys are some of the best out there when it comes to promoting good oral health for your pup.
Benefits for Dental Health
By providing mechanical removal of bacteria and food debris, dental chews can help freshen breath, clean teeth, and reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Dog owners should brush their pet’s teeth daily with dog-safe toothpaste, schedule regular professional vet cleanings, and adjust food portions to include dental treats in 10% of the diet.
Dental chews come in many forms, such as rawhide bones or sticks infused with baking soda for whitening power, and rubber toys that have nubs to scrape away plaque while bristles massage gums.
Veterinarians recommend at least two to three chewable treats per week for optimal results, but not every day due to potential choking hazards for small breeds.
Are Dental Chews Worth It?
As a responsible dog owner, you know dental care is essential for keeping your pup healthy. Experts recommend incorporating dental chews into canine oral hygiene care as an effective way to combat plaque and tartar buildup compared to brushing or professional cleanings.
With the wide variety of chew products available, it’s important to consider factors like size and shape when selecting the best ones for your pet.
Expert Recommendations
Experts advise following a regular dental hygiene routine for your pup, such as brushing teeth and scheduling cleanings. However, they also recommend supplementing with VOHC-approved dental chews. Chew size should be considered based on dog nutrition and treat consumption needs, while toy shape helps access all areas of the mouth.
Toothpaste/treat grooves or rubber bristles massage gums, while nubs scrape plaque away with vitamins and minerals found in food.
Effectiveness Compared to Other Dental Care Methods
Discover how dental chews compare to other dental care methods and find out if they’re worth investing in for your pup! Dental chews are a great way to promote oral hygiene. They help remove plaque and tartar while freshening breath. Unlike brushing or vet cleanings, they provide mechanical removal of bacteria from teeth with anti-plaque agents like delmopinol.
The size of the chew should be appropriate for the dog’s breed as well as their calorie intake when considering treats versus food portions.
Considerations for Choosing Dental Chews
When choosing dental chews, consider factors such as action, size, and durability to ensure your pup’s teeth stay clean and healthy while they enjoy their chew toy.
Start with the basics of caring for your dog’s dental health – brushing teeth regularly, selecting a diet that is beneficial for them – then decide which type of chew suits best.
Look at the treat selection available; some contain anti-plaque agents like delmopinol that provide added benefits beyond mechanical cleaning.
Remember to check nutritional information so you can adjust food portions accordingly too!
Finally, remember VOHC certification indicating chews reduce plaque and tartar 15-20% can be helpful when making decisions about which products are most effective in providing optimal oral care.
Why Trust Select?
When it comes to selecting the best dental toys for dogs, trust Select. Our research-based recommendations are backed by expert opinion and advice from veterinarians, professors, and licensed vet technicians.
We’ve fact-checked all of our dog dental health information with vets so that you can have confidence in our suggestions.
Research-based Recommendations
With research from veterinarians, professors, and licensed vet technicians, you can find the perfect dental chew toy for your pup.
To help keep teeth clean, look for Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) certification that reduces plaque/tartar up to 20%. Check nutritional info/calorie count to adjust food portions; no more than 10% should come from treats.
Popular VOHC-approved brands include Pedigree Dentastix Dog Treats or OraVet Small Dog Chews – plus Greenies Dental Dog Treats or Milk Bone Brushing Chews.
As always, follow vets’ advice on brushing teeth with dog-safe toothpaste and scheduling professional cleanings too!
Expert Opinion and Advice
Experts recommend brushing your pup’s teeth at least twice a week and scheduling annual cleanings. They also suggest giving 2-3 dental chews per week to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. With over 70% of dogs showing signs of oral disease by the age of 3, it’s important to take preventive care steps now for their long-term health.
Consider the chew size for your dog when choosing dental toys. Look for Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) certification, which indicates that the chew reduces tartar by 15-20%. Dog diets also affect dental hygiene, so treats should make up a maximum of 10% of their calorie intake.
There are several VOHC-approved dental chews available, such as Greenies, Dentastix, and Milk Bone Chews. These chews come in sizes designed for different breeds. For example, the Coconut toy has rubber bristles that clean gums, while the beef-flavored option has a squeaker to motivate aggressive chewing.
If you’re looking for an alternative to real bones that won’t splinter or crack, consider the Nylabone Power Chew Chicken XL. It’s made of durable nylon material that helps keep teeth and gums healthy, all without sacrificing flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are dental chew toys safe for all dogs?
Dental chew toys are generally safe for all dogs, but it’s important to choose the right size and type. A good analogy is like buying a pair of shoes: find something that fits your pup properly to ensure comfort and safety.
Be sure to also follow guidance from experts on frequency and ingredients for optimal dental health.
How often should I give my dog dental chews?
Give your dog dental chews 2-3 times per week, not daily. Choose the right size for their breed and track calories to adjust food portions. Always avoid small breeds choking on treats or toys. Professional cleanings annually are best for dogs that inhale treats too quickly.
Are dental chews an effective substitute for brushing?
Dental chews are an effective substitute for brushing, but not a complete replacement. They can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, freshen breath, and promote dental health. However, regular brushings with vet-approved toothpaste are still recommended by vets to ensure overall oral hygiene.
What are the benefits of using dental chews?
Dental chews can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, freshen breath, and promote healthy teeth and gums. They provide an interactive dental care option for dogs that do not like a toothbrush. Chewing toys are typically made of rubber or nylon with nubs or bristles to clean teeth areas.
Vets recommend using them as part of a routine, but they should not replace brushing or professional cleanings.
Are dental chews suitable for puppies?
Dental chews are not suitable for puppies under 6 months old. Consult your veterinarian regarding the most effective dental hygiene routine for your puppy, which should involve brushing with dog-safe toothpaste and regular cleanings.
Conclusion
Treat your furry companion to the best dental toys for dogs and help keep their teeth and gums healthy. From Pedigree Dentastix Dog Treats to Nylabone Power Chew Chicken XL, there are a variety of dental chew toys on the market that can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup while providing hours of entertainment.
Be sure to check the size and flavor of the toy as well as the durability before purchasing. Additionally, make sure to follow the expert recommendations for dental hygiene, such as brushing teeth, using dog-safe toothpaste, and scheduling regular cleanings.
By doing so, you can rest assured that your pup’s teeth and gums will be in great shape.
