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Best Dental Chews for Dogs: Top 10 Vet-Approved Picks for Healthy Teeth (2025)

By: Author Mutasim Sweileh

Posted on Last updated:

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best dental chews for dogsFinding the best dental chews for dogs is all about balancing safety, effectiveness, and ingredients.

Look for chews with the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) seal, like Greenies or Virbac Veggiedent, to confirm they reduce plaque and tartar.

Size matters too—smaller breeds need appropriately sized chews to avoid choking, while larger dogs benefit from durable options.

Steer clear of high-calorie or sugar-filled chews; natural, low-calorie ones are a healthier choice.

Dental chews can freshen breath, fight gum disease, and support oral hygiene, but always supervise your dog during chew time.

Curious about the top vet-approved picks? Let’s dig in!

Key Takeaways

  • Look for VOHC-approved dental chews like Greenies or Virbac Veggiedent to ensure they effectively reduce plaque and tartar.
  • Pick the right size and texture for your dog to avoid choking or tooth damage while maximizing cleaning benefits.
  • Choose low-calorie options with natural ingredients to keep your dog healthy and manage weight.
  • Use dental chews as part of an overall oral hygiene routine, including brushing and vet check-ups, for the best results.

Benefits of Dental Chews

Benefits of Dental Chews
Dental chews can help keep your dog’s teeth clean by reducing plaque and tartar buildup while supporting healthier gums.

They also freshen your dog’s breath, making cuddles much more pleasant for both of you.

Removing Plaque and Tartar Buildup

If brushing your dog’s teeth feels impossible, dental chews for dogs can step in.

They’re designed to make plaque removal and tartar control easier. For more information, explore the best dog dental chews.

Plaque control chews work by gently scrubbing teeth as your dog chews, reducing buildup. These tartar removal treats, in addition to promoting dental health, also support better oral care, keeping your pup’s teeth cleaner and stronger.

Reducing Risk of Gum Disease

Gum disease prevention starts with good plaque control methods.

VOHC-approved dental chews can aid tartar removal techniques by gently scrubbing your dog’s teeth and keeping gums healthier.

Adding gum health chews to your dog’s dental care routine helps combat gingivitis, which can lead to periodontitis.

Think of plaque removal chews as small tools in preserving your pup’s long-term oral health.

Freshening Breath and Oral Hygiene

Good oral health matters for your dog, and fresh breath is a big part of it.

Fresh breath dog chews help by reducing bad odors and supporting gum care. Vet-recommended dental chews also aid in plaque control and tartar removal.

Here’s how they improve oral hygiene:

  1. Promote saliva production.
  2. Reduce bacteria buildup.
  3. Remove plaque effectively.
  4. Support cleaner gums, which is crucial for overall oral hygiene.

Choosing Dental Chews

When choosing dental chews, focus on safety, size, and ingredients to make sure they fit your dog’s needs.

Look for the VOHC seal, pick the right texture, and check the calorie content to keep your pup healthy and happy.

VOHC Seal of Approval and Safety

VOHC Seal of Approval and Safety
The VOHC seal guarantees you’re choosing safe dental chews for your dog.

Products meet strict safety trials, regulatory compliance, and prove their product efficacy.

VOHC approved dental chews, like Greenies or CET chews, are vet-recommended for plaque and tartar reduction.

Always verify the seal—it’s a trusted mark of quality, helping you avoid unsafe or ineffective choices for your pet’s health.

Size, Texture, and Durability Considerations

Size, Texture, and Durability Considerations
When picking dog dental chews, size, texture, and durability matter for safety and effectiveness.

Durable dental chews provide better bite resistance, lasting longer for thorough cleaning. For an extensive list of recommendations, explore these vet-approved dental chews.

Texture types help scrub teeth, while proper dental chew sizes reduce choking risks. Watch out for overly hard options to avoid tooth fractures.

Here’s what to explore:

  1. Chew Durability
  2. Texture Types
  3. Dental Hardness
  4. Long Lasting Chews
  5. Suitable Size Options

Ingredients and Caloric Content

Ingredients and Caloric Content
Reading labels matters when choosing dog dental chews.

Focus on ingredient safety and nutrient balance to match your dog’s dietary restrictions.

Low-calorie dog chews are ideal to manage calorie intake, especially for weight-conscious pups.

Avoid sugar content and artificial additives.

Healthy dog chews with natural ingredients offer better options, giving you peace of mind while supporting your pet’s caloric needs.

Top 10 Dental Chews

Finding the right dental chew for your dog can make a big difference in their oral health.

Here are ten vet-approved options to help reduce plaque, fight tartar, and keep those tails wagging.

1. Greenies Original Large Dog Treats

Greenies Original Large Natural DentalView On Amazon
Greenies Original Large Dog Treats are a fantastic choice for keeping your dog’s teeth clean and healthy.

Their chewy texture scrapes away plaque and tartar, promoting healthier gums and teeth. Made with natural ingredients, they’re also enriched with essential vitamins and nutrients.

These treats are VOHC-approved and veterinarian-recommended, so you know they’re effective. Plus, the mint flavor helps freshen your dog’s breath.

Designed for larger breeds (50–100 lbs), they’re a great addition to your pup’s dental care routine.

Best For: Large dogs (50–100 lbs) needing effective dental care and fresh breath.

Pros
  • Reduces plaque and tartar for improved dental health.
  • Made with natural ingredients and enriched with nutrients.
  • VOHC-approved and recommended by veterinarians.
Cons
  • Premium quality comes with a higher price.
  • Contains ingredients sourced globally, which may concern some buyers.
  • Not suitable for small dogs or those under 50 lbs.

2. Pedigree Dentastix Large Dog Dental Treats

PEDIGREE DENTASTIX Large Dog DentalView On Amazon
Pedigree Dentastix Large Dog Dental Treats are a great pick for maintaining your dog’s oral health.

Their unique X-shape design reaches tough-to-clean spots, helping to reduce up to 80% of tartar and plaque when used regularly.

With flavors like Original, Fresh, and Beef, they’re both effective and tasty, and are vet-approved chews that are low in fat, free from artificial flavors.

They are perfect for daily use in large breeds, plus, they freshen breath and promote healthy gums, making dental care simple and enjoyable.

Best For: Large breed dog owners looking for an affordable, vet-approved dental chew to improve oral health.

Pros
  • Reduces up to 80% of tartar and plaque buildup.
  • Freshens breath while promoting gum health.
  • Affordable, low-fat, and free from artificial flavors.
Cons
  • Only suitable for adult large breed dogs.
  • Soft texture may not satisfy dogs who prefer harder chews.
  • Needs daily use for maximum effectiveness.

3. Greenies Teenie Dog Treats Dental Care

Greenies Original Teenie Natural DentalView On Amazon
These chewy dental treats are made for little dogs, combining a minty flavor with plaque-fighting benefits.

Greenies Teenie Dog Treats support oral health by reducing tartar and freshening breath. Their size and texture suit dogs between 5-15 pounds, while the VOHC seal assures effectiveness.

Packed with natural ingredients, vitamins, and nutrients, they’re easy to digest and safe for regular use. They work best alongside brushing and professional cleanings, ensuring your furry friend maintains healthier teeth and gums over time, with the added benefit of freshening breath.

Best For: Small dog owners looking for a veterinarian-recommended treat that supports oral hygiene in breeds weighing 5-15 pounds.

Pros
  • Veterinarian recommended with VOHC approval for dental effectiveness.
  • Made with natural ingredients, vitamins, and nutrients.
  • Designed with a chewy texture that is easy to digest and helps reduce tartar buildup.
Cons
  • Claims of reducing bad breath and improving dental health are not consistently substantiated.
  • Limited effectiveness without additional dental care routines like brushing.
  • May not provide noticeable results for dogs with severe dental issues or persistent bad breath.

4. Wag Dental Chews Large Dog Green

Amazon Brand - Wag DentalView On Amazon
Wag Dental Chews Large Dog Green are a solid pick for keeping your big dog’s teeth healthy.

These chews are designed for large dogs (50–100 lbs) and can reduce plaque and tartar buildup by up to 80% with daily use.

Made in the USA, they’re free from artificial flavors, grains, and poultry by-products, making them a budget-friendly, vet-approved option for dental hygiene, and the textured treats encourage chewing, which helps clean teeth and freshen breath.

The resealable bag keeps them fresh.

Best For: Large dogs (50–100 lbs) needing daily dental hygiene support to reduce plaque and tartar buildup.

Pros
  • Helps reduce plaque and tartar by up to 80% with daily use.
  • Made in the USA with no artificial flavors, grains, or poultry by-products.
  • Cost-effective option with a resealable bag for freshness.
Cons
  • Not suitable for dogs under 5 lbs or younger than 6 months.
  • Must be monitored to prevent swallowing large chunks.
  • Cannot be cut into smaller pieces for easier chewing.

5. Blue Buffalo Large Dental Dog Treats

Blue Buffalo Dental Bones LargeView On Amazon
Blue Buffalo Large Dental Dog Treats are perfect for big breeds weighing 50 pounds or more.

These natural chews help reduce plaque and tartar while freshening your dog’s breath. Made without artificial preservatives or fillers, they provide a safe option for maintaining oral health.

The chewy texture promotes longer chewing, improving their effectiveness. If your pup’s breath makes you hesitate during cuddle time, these might be the answer.

Just one treat daily can support healthy gums, teeth, and a happier, fresher-smelling dog, which can make a big difference during cuddle time, and overall promote a happier dog.

Best For: Large dog breeds 50 lbs or more, especially owners seeking a natural solution to improve their dog’s oral health and breath.

Pros
  • Helps reduce plaque and tartar while improving breath.
  • Made with natural ingredients, free from artificial preservatives, and easy to digest.
  • Designed with a long-lasting texture for better chewing and oral health benefits.
Cons
  • Not specifically designed for extra-large breeds over 100 lbs without modification (e.g., cutting in half).
  • Some dogs may take time to adapt to the flavor or texture.
  • Daily feeding leads to faster product consumption, which may add to cost over time.

6. Dog Dental Chews Made in USA

Purina Dentalife Daily Oral CareView On Amazon
Regarding dental chews made in the USA, numerous reliable options can promote your dog’s oral health.

Greenies, featuring VOHC approval, effectively reduce plaque and tartar. CET Enzymatic Chews are vet-recommended for visible results within a week.

Minties tackle bad breath with their invigorating scent, while Milk-Bone Brushing Chews offer proven plaque reduction.

RedBarn Chew-A-Bulls blend natural ingredients with dental care. Each provides effective cleaning, ensuring you’re offering your dog a safe, trustworthy option for healthier teeth and oral health with reliable options.

Best For: Owners of small to medium adult dogs (20-40 lbs) looking for an effective, USA-made dental chew to reduce tartar and freshen breath.

Pros
  • Reduces tartar by 57% on average.
  • VOHC-approved for dental health efficacy.
  • Made with no artificial flavors or colors.
Cons
  • Chew time may be too short for aggressive chewers.
  • Only suitable for dogs within a specific weight range (20-40 lbs).
  • Not effective for dogs needing long-lasting chews.

7. Dog Dental Chews Small Breeds Fresh Breath

Ark Naturals Soft Shield Protection+View On Amazon
Finding the right dental chews for small breeds can be a game-changer for keeping their teeth clean and breath fresh.

For a detailed list of options, explore these vet-approved dental chews.

Options like Greenies Teenie Treats are VOHC-approved and perfect for dogs under 15 lbs.

OraVet chews help fight plaque buildup while improving breath with their cleaning ingredients.

Whimzees Dental Treats use natural shapes and materials ideal for smaller jaws, and Minties Dental Chews, with their invigorating mint flavor, effectively combat bad breath.

These are all safe, vet-recommended choices for your little companion.

Best For: Small breed dogs (8-20 lbs, 12 weeks+) needing a soft, natural dental chew for improved oral health.

Pros
  • Vet-recommended for small breeds with delicate chewing needs.
  • Free of corn, soy, wheat, artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
  • Proven to reduce plaque, tartar, and bad breath while supporting healthy gums.
Cons
  • Requires twice daily use for optimal results.
  • May not be suitable for dogs over 20 lbs or under 8 lbs.
  • Limited flavor variety for picky eaters.

8. Dingo Dental Sticks for Dogs

Dingo Tartar And Breath DentalView On Amazon
Dingo Dental Sticks are a practical choice for maintaining your dog’s oral health.

Designed to reduce plaque and tartar, they also freshen breath with mint and parsley.

The natural chewing action gently scrubs teeth clean while massaging gums, keeping your dog’s mouth healthy.

Each resealable bag contains 48 low-calorie sticks, ensuring convenience and affordability.

Made with natural ingredients, they’re safe and enjoyable for various breeds.

Supervise your pup during use to prevent choking, and make dental care a daily treat!

Best For: Dog owners seeking an affordable, natural dental treat to improve their pet’s oral health and freshen breath.

Pros
  • Effectively reduces plaque and tartar for better oral hygiene.
  • Made with natural, low-calorie ingredients safe for most breeds.
  • Convenient resealable packaging with 48 sticks for long-term use.
Cons
  • Requires supervision to avoid choking risks.
  • Not suitable for small dogs due to stick size.
  • Daily use may not fully replace professional dental cleanings.

9. Virbac Veggident Tartar Control Chews Medium

Virbac CET VEGGIEDENT FR3SH TartarView On Amazon
Virbac Veggident Tartar Control Chews Medium are an excellent pick if you want a safe, effective dental treat for your dog.

They’re also VOHC-approved, which means they’ve passed strict efficacy standards, and feature a unique Z-shape that cleans hard-to-reach spots, reducing plaque and tartar buildup.

With easily digestible ingredients and a prebiotic to support digestion, they’re gentle on your pup’s stomach while keeping their breath fresh.

Just remember to use one daily for the best results!

Best For: Medium-sized dogs needing a plant-based, VOHC-approved dental chew that supports oral and digestive health.

Pros
  • VOHC-approved for reducing plaque and tartar.
  • Made with easily digestible, plant-based ingredients.
  • Includes prebiotic to support gut health.
Cons
  • One chew daily adds 75 calories to your dog’s diet.
  • May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary restrictions.
  • Requires supervision to prevent swallowing large pieces.

10. Greenies Original Dog Dental Chews

Greenies Original Regular Natural DogView On Amazon
Greenies Original Dog Dental Chews are a top choice for keeping your dog’s teeth healthy.

These treats are vet-recommended and VOHC-approved, meaning they’re proven to reduce plaque and tartar.

Their unique, chewy texture reaches the gumline, ensuring a deep clean. Plus, they’re made with easy-to-digest, natural ingredients, so they’re safe for daily use.

Dogs love the flavor, and you’ll appreciate the fresher breath. Just give one a day, and remember to supervise your pup to make sure safe chewing and enjoyment, using natural ingredients.

Best For: Dogs of all sizes and breeds needing daily dental care to reduce plaque, tartar, and improve breath.

Pros
  • Vet-recommended and VOHC-approved for effective oral health.
  • Made with natural, easy-to-digest ingredients safe for daily use.
  • Unique texture cleans to the gumline for a deep, thorough clean.
Cons
  • Must supervise dogs during chewing to prevent choking hazards.
  • Reported cases of product quality issues such as worm infestation.
  • Requires careful monitoring for potential allergies or calorie intake.

Using Dental Chews Safely

Using Dental Chews Safely
Using dental chews the right way is key to keeping your dog’s teeth healthy and safe.

Pay attention to their chewing habits, stick to the recommended frequency, and don’t skip regular vet cleanings for the best results.

For dog dental health maintenance, follow Daily Use Guidelines for vet-recommended chews.

Most experts suggest giving dental chews a few times a week, aligning with Feeding Schedules and Dosage Control to avoid overuse.

The Veterinary Oral Health Council advises Usage Limits for effective results.

Rotate the best dental chews in your dog’s oral health routine to maintain effectiveness.

Monitoring Chewing Habits

Keep an eye on your dog while they chew.

Match the chew texture and size to your dog’s bite force and chewing style.

Too-hard chews might harm teeth, while overly soft ones may not clean effectively.

Limit chew time to 5–10 minutes per session, aligning with their feeding schedule.

Vet recommended chews support dog oral health and maximize dental chew benefits.

Combining With Professional Cleanings

While plaque removal chews and tartar control chews are great for dog dental care, they work best alongside professional cleanings.

For more information, explore the best dog dental chews.

Regular vet visits guarantee deep cleaning and spot potential issues early, think of chews as helpful tools, not complete solutions, to achieve better oral health.

Combine vet-recommended chews with thorough dental routines for a balanced, preventive care approach for your pup’s teeth.

Best Dental Chew Features

When choosing dental chews, it’s important to focus on features like high-quality ingredients, the right size, and a safe texture.

Look for options with vet approval to guarantee they’re both effective and safe for your dog.

Ingredients

Ingredients
Always check the ingredient list.

Look for plant-based dog chews with natural additives like organic kelp or rawhide-free options.

Sodium tripolyphosphate and other chemical antiplaque agents can help reduce tartar, while essential vitamins improve oral health.

Consider exploring natural dog dental chews for more options.

Natural dental chews with low caloric content are better for daily use.

Avoid anything artificial or overly processed for your pup’s safety, opting for natural choices instead.

Size

Size
Choosing the right size is key when picking dental chews.

Small dog dental chews should fit comfortably in your pup’s mouth, while larger breeds need appropriately sized dog dental sticks to avoid choking.

A helpful resource is a dental chew size chart.

Consider chew dimensions that match your dog’s measurements and bite force.

Always make sure the chew suits their mouth space for safe, effective cleaning.

Dog sizes truly matter!

Texture

Texture
How a chew feels matters!

Texture Variety, like texturized ridges or bristlelike nubs, guarantees effective plaque removal through mechanical scrubbing.

Chews with the right Bite Resistance and Abrasive Quality gently clean without hurting your dog’s teeth.

Ridged chews or long stick designs also maximize contact. Surface Roughness helps tackle buildup, making teeth cleaning fun for your pup!

Vet’s Recommendation

Vet’s Recommendation
Vet advice is key when choosing dental chews for your pup.

Vet-recommended chews, especially VOHC-approved dental chews, maintain effectiveness and safety.

Dental problems can lead to serious health complications.

Veterinary oral health experts prioritize your dog’s nutrition and oral health by endorsing products that prevent plaque and tartar build-up.

These chews, combined with regular pet care routines, deliver reliable dental guidance to keep your dog’s teeth in top shape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the best dog dental chews?

Think of dental chews as your dog’s toothbrush in disguise.

They reduce plaque, freshen breath, and support oral health—your dog will thank you!

Greenies, Whimzees, and VOHC-approved Virbac C.E.T. VeggieDent are top picks, all reducing plaque and supporting oral health.

What is the best food for teeth?

Crunchy kibble designed for dental health can reduce plaque, while wet food is less effective.

Look for foods with Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) approval, as they’re proven to promote healthier teeth and gums.

Where can I buy a dog dental chew?

You can grab dog dental chews online at Amazon, Chewy, or Walmart, and in-store at Petco or your local pet shop.

Look for VOHC-approved options to guarantee safety and effectiveness for your pup’s teeth.

Are dental chews a good substitute for dog food?

Did you know over 80% of dogs develop dental issues by age three?

Dental chews help maintain oral health but can’t replace dog food.

They’re like dessert—fun but not enough for balanced nutrition.

Are dental chews safe for dogs?

Dental chews are generally safe for dogs when you choose the right size and VOHC-approved products.

Always supervise your dog while chewing to prevent choking, and don’t overuse them to avoid weight gain or stomach issues, focusing on VOHC-approved products.

What is a dental dog chew?

It’s funny how dogs hate toothbrushes but love chewing treats.

A dental dog chew is a tasty, textured treat designed to clean teeth, reduce plaque, and promote oral health—all while your dog enjoys a snack!

What is the best dental chew for dogs?

Choose dental chews like Greenies, Whimzees, or Virbac C.E.T., all VOHC-approved for reducing plaque and tartar.

Opt for the right size, watch calorie intake, and remember, they’re a supplement—not a replacement—for brushing.

Do any dog dental chews actually work?

Yes, many dog dental chews work effectively, especially those with the VOHC seal.

They help reduce plaque and tartar, freshen breath, and support oral health.

They’re best used alongside brushing and professional cleanings.

What do vets say about dental chews for dogs?

Vets generally recommend dental chews as a helpful tool for reducing plaque and tartar.

Look for products with a VOHC seal.

Chews work best with regular brushing, professional cleanings, and proper monitoring to avoid overuse.

Which is better, whimzees vs greenies?

Over 80% of dogs develop dental issues by age three.

Your choice depends on personal preferences and your dog’s needs.

Whimzees work well for sustainability and unique shapes, while Greenies boast VOHC approval and vet recommendations.

Conclusion

A happy dog starts with a healthy smile, and the best dental chews for dogs make that possible.

By choosing VOHC-approved options like Greenies or Virbac Veggiedent, you’re helping reduce plaque, freshen breath, and support oral health.

Remember to pick the right size and keep an eye on your pup while they chew, as consistent use, alongside professional cleanings, keeps their teeth in top shape.

Healthy teeth, happy dog—it’s that simple, and your furry friend will thank you!

Avatar for Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is the founder and editor-in-chief with a team of qualified veterinarians, their goal? Simple. Break the jargon and help you make the right decisions for your furry four-legged friends.

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