This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.
You’ll find the best dental chews for dogs in trusted brands like Greenies and Pedigree Dentastix, which are VOHC-approved and proven to reduce tartar by up to 80%.
For large pups (50-100 lbs), Greenies Original treats are a tail-wagging favorite, while smaller dogs (5-15 lbs) love Greenies Teenie.
These chewy champions feature special textures that clean deep into the gumline, keeping your furry friend’s breath fresh and teeth healthy.
Just remember to match the chew size to your dog’s weight – like picking the right shoe size, it’s important for safety.
There’s more to choosing the perfect dental treat than meets the eye.
Table Of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- 10 Best Dental Chews for Dogs
- 1. Greenies Original Large Dog Treats
- 2. Pedigree Dentastix Large Dog Dental Treats
- 3. Greenies Teenie Dog Treats Dental Care
- 4. Wag Dental Chews Large Dog Green
- 5. Blue Buffalo Large Dental Dog Treats
- 6. Dog Dental Chews Made in USA
- 7. Dog Dental Chews Small Breeds Fresh Breath
- 8. Dingo Dental Sticks for Dogs
- 9. Virbac Veggident Tartar Control Chews Medium
- 10. Greenies Original Dog Dental Chews
- Benefits of Dental Chews for Dogs
- Choosing The Right Dental Chews for Your Dog
- How to Incorporate Dental Chews Safely
- Common Mistakes When Using Dental Chews
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What are the best dog dental chews?
- What is the best food for teeth?
- What are dog dental chews?
- Are dental chews a good substitute for dog food?
- Are dental chews safe for dogs?
- Is dentalife a good dog chew?
- What is the most effective dog dental chew?
- What do vets say about dental chews for dogs?
- Do dental treats really work for dogs?
- Are greenies or dentastix better?
- Conclusion
Key Takeaways
- You’ll find the best results with VOHC-approved dental chews like Greenies Original and Pedigree Dentastix, which can reduce tartar buildup by up to 80% when used daily.
- You must match your dog’s size to the chew – large breeds (50-100 lbs) need Greenies Original Large, while small dogs (5-15 lbs) should use Greenies Teenie to prevent choking hazards.
- You shouldn’t rely on dental chews alone – they work best as part of a complete dental care routine that includes regular brushing and professional cleanings.
- You’ll want to limit dental chews to 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake and monitor their chewing habits to ensure they’re not swallowing pieces that are too large.
10 Best Dental Chews for Dogs
You’ll find the perfect dental chew for your pup in our vet-approved selection, featuring trusted brands like Greenies and Virbac that effectively combat plaque and freshen breath.
Whether you’re shopping for a tiny Yorkie or a gentle giant, we’ve tested these dental treats to confirm they’re safe, effective, and tasty enough to make your dog’s daily dental routine feel like a treat.
1. Greenies Original Large Dog Treats
View On Amazon
Anyone looking for vet-recommended dental chews will find Greenies Original Large Dog Treats hard to beat.
These VOHC-approved chews come in a convenient 36 oz pack with 24 treats, perfect for dogs between 50-100 pounds.
Their unique chewy texture fights plaque and tartar while reaching deep into the gumline.
Made in the USA with natural, digestible ingredients, one daily treat’s all your pup needs for fresh breath and healthy teeth.
For more information on dental chews, remember factors like size, edibility, and the VOHC seal when selecting the best option.
They’re pricier than some alternatives, but their proven effectiveness and quality ingredients make them worth every penny.
Best For: Large dog breeds (50-100 lbs) needing daily dental care to combat plaque, tartar, and bad breath.
- Veterinarian-recommended and VOHC-approved for effective dental cleaning.
- Made with natural, easy-to-digest ingredients for safe consumption.
- Unique chewy texture cleans down to the gumline, freshening breath and fighting plaque and tartar.
- Can be more expensive than other dental chews.
- Some dogs may not enjoy the texture or flavor.
- Not suitable for small or medium-sized dogs.
2. Pedigree Dentastix Large Dog Dental Treats
View On Amazon
Countless dog owners trust Pedigree Dentastix for their pups’ dental health, and it’s easy to see why.
These treats come in a value-packed 51-count bag featuring original, fresh mint, and beef flavors.
With their unique X-shape design, they’re clinically proven to reduce tartar buildup by up to 80%.
You’ll love that they’re low in fat and perfect for daily use in dogs over 40 pounds.
They’ve earned rave reviews for freshening breath and maintaining healthy gums, plus they’re made with vet-recommended ingredients in quality-controlled facilities.
Best For: Large breed dog owners seeking a convenient and effective way to improve their dog’s dental hygiene.
- Clinically proven to reduce tartar and freshen breath.
- Variety of flavors keeps dogs interested.
- Cost-effective compared to professional cleanings.
- Some dogs may not like the texture or flavor.
- Not suitable for small breeds or puppies.
- May not be as effective as professional cleaning for severe dental issues.
3. Greenies Teenie Dog Treats Dental Care
View On Amazon
Your tiny pup deserves a dental treat that’s just their size, and Greenies Teenie treats fit the bill perfectly.
They’re specifically designed for dogs between 5-15 pounds, with a texture that helps fight plaque while being easy to digest.
They’re packed with natural ingredients plus essential vitamins and minerals for balanced nutrition.
While some pet parents report mixed results with breath freshening, dogs absolutely love the taste.
Consider them a tasty daily treat that supports oral health rather than a complete dental care solution.
Best For: Small dogs (5-15 lbs) who enjoy a tasty treat that offers some dental health support.
- Designed for small mouths and easy digestion.
- Made with natural ingredients, vitamins, and minerals.
- Highly palatable, making it easy to give regularly.
- Effectiveness in combating bad breath varies.
- May not significantly reduce plaque and tartar buildup for all dogs.
- Should be used as a supplement to, not a replacement for, professional dental care.
4. Wag Dental Chews Large Dog Green
View On Amazon
Big dogs deserve big benefits, and Wag’s Large Dog Green dental chews deliver exactly that.
These textured treats come in a pack of 24, perfectly sized for dogs between 50-100 pounds, and help reduce plaque buildup through natural chewing action.
Pet parents praise their effectiveness, with many reporting consistently clean teeth and fresh breath during vet checkups.
Made in Minnesota by a family-owned facility, they’re free from GMOs, grain, corn, and artificial additives.
While they’re a bit pricey, regular users agree they’re worth the investment.
For ideal dental health benefits are also available from other reputable brands, offering a range of solutions for pet owners, and can be found at dental health benefits
Best For: Large breed dogs (50-100 lbs) needing help with plaque and tartar control, plus a breath refresh.
- Effective plaque and tartar reduction through chewing.
- Made with wholesome ingredients, free of common allergens.
- Supports overall dental hygiene and freshens breath.
- Can be a bit pricey compared to some alternatives.
- Not suitable for small dogs or puppies under 6 months.
- Treats should not be broken into smaller pieces.
5. Blue Buffalo Large Dental Dog Treats
View On Amazon
Looking for a dental treat that pulls double duty?
Blue Buffalo Large Dental Dog Treats combine wholesome ingredients with a tooth-cleaning design that’ll keep your pup’s smile bright.
You won’t find any chicken by-products, corn, wheat, or artificial preservatives here – just natural ingredients enhanced with minerals.
They’re highly digestible and sized perfectly for dogs over 50 pounds.
While your German Shepherd chomps away happily, these treats work to scrape off plaque and freshen breath.
Plus, you can break them into smaller pieces if needed for portion control.
Best For: Large breed dogs over 50 pounds needing dental care and breath freshening.
- Natural ingredients and added minerals support dental health.
- Designed to scrape away plaque and tartar for cleaner teeth.
- Highly digestible, even for sensitive stomachs.
- May need to be broken into smaller pieces for some large dogs.
- Only suitable for dogs over 50 pounds.
- Might not be as effective as professional dental cleaning.
6. Dog Dental Chews Made in USA
View On Amazon
You’ll love how Purina DentaLife chews blend American-made quality with proven results.
These USA-manufactured treats feature eight distinct ridges and a unique porous texture that reaches deep between your pup’s teeth.
They’re scientifically proven to reduce tartar buildup by 57%, and there’s no artificial flavors or colors.
Perfect for dogs between 20-40 pounds, these VOHC-accepted chews come in a convenient 40-count pouch.
Plus, they’re gentle on sensitive stomachs and don’t create messy flakes, making them a great option with proven results for small to medium-sized adult dogs only.
Best For: Small to medium-sized (20-40 lbs) adult dogs looking for a daily dental chew made in the USA.
- Scientifically proven to reduce tartar buildup by 57%.
- VOHC-accepted and made with no artificial flavors or colors.
- Easy and mess-free, doesn’t flake or break apart.
- May not be durable enough for aggressive chewers.
- Not suitable for dogs outside the 20-40 lbs weight range.
- Size and durability can vary.
7. Dog Dental Chews Small Breeds Fresh Breath
View On Amazon
When a small breed’s oral health is at stake, these specialized dental chews deliver powerful 5-in-1 protection.
They’re perfectly sized for pups under 25 pounds, with a textured surface that reaches those tight spaces between tiny teeth.
The soft-baked formula includes natural breath fresheners like cinnamon and clove, while astaxanthin boosts protective antibodies in your dog’s saliva.
You’ll appreciate that they’re corn-free and made in the USA. Give one chew twice daily to dogs 12 weeks and older – they’re vet-recommended and proven to improve dental exams.
Best For: Small breed dogs (8-20 lbs) over 12 weeks old needing dental care and fresh breath, especially those with sensitive mouths or delicate teeth.
- 5-in-1 dental benefits: tackles plaque, tartar, gum health, breath, and provides a satisfying chew.
- Small breed specific: perfectly sized and textured for tiny teeth and smaller mouths.
- Natural and safe: made with natural breath fresheners and astaxanthin, free of artificial ingredients, corn, soy, and wheat.
- Twice-daily dosage: might be inconvenient for some pet owners.
- Not a substitute for brushing: still requires regular brushing and vet checkups.
- Price point: could be more expensive than other dental chews.
8. Dingo Dental Sticks for Dogs
View On Amazon
Recent safety concerns have emerged with Dingo Dental Sticks, making them a questionable choice for your pup’s dental care.
While these treats contain chicken filling and breath-freshening ingredients like baking soda and parsley seed, multiple reports indicate potential health risks.
For safer alternatives, consider VOHC-approved options that offer similar dental benefits.
If you’re currently using these sticks, it’s worth discussing alternatives with your vet, especially given recent emergency room incidents linked to these treats.
Best For: Dog owners seeking a dental chew to help freshen breath and maintain oral health, but with safety concerns.
- Contains real chicken and breath-freshening ingredients.
- Designed for daily oral health care and tartar reduction.
- Available in various sizes and convenient packaging.
- Recent safety concerns and potential health risks have been reported.
- VOHC-approved alternatives offer similar benefits with better safety profiles.
- Emergency room incidents linked to these treats raise serious concerns.
9. Virbac Veggident Tartar Control Chews Medium
View On Amazon
Looking for a plant-based powerhouse for your medium-sized pup?
Virbac’s Veggident Tartar Control Chews pack a triple threat with their unique Z-shape design. They’re clinically proven to freshen breath from day one, with 90% of pet parents noticing immediate improvement.
You’ll love that they’re gluten-free and contain no artificial ingredients, while their prebiotic formula supports healthy digestion. At 75 calories per chew, they’re a sensible choice for daily dental care.
The best part? They’re VOHC-approved, so you know they actually work.
Best For: Medium-sized dogs (22-66 lbs) needing plant-based dental chews for tartar control and fresh breath.
- VOHC-approved and clinically proven to reduce tartar and freshen breath.
- Plant-based, gluten-free, and easily digestible with a prebiotic for gut health.
- Contains no artificial ingredients or chemicals.
- Moderate calorie content (75 kcal per chew) may need to be considered for dogs on a restricted diet.
- Not a substitute for professional dental cleaning.
- Effectiveness may vary depending on individual dog’s chewing habits.
10. Greenies Original Dog Dental Chews
View On Amazon
Veterinarians consistently rank Greenies Original Dog Dental Chews as a top choice for their proven effectiveness.
These VOHC-accepted treats feature a unique texture that cleans right down to your dog’s gumline, tackling both plaque and tartar buildup.
They’re packed with natural ingredients, plus essential vitamins and minerals, making them both delicious and nutritious, and they’re proudly made in USA facilities.
You’ll find them in various sizes to match your pup’s needs, and just one treat daily is all it takes for fresher breath and healthier teeth.
Best For: Dogs of all sizes who need help maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing plaque and tartar buildup.
- Cleans teeth down to the gumline, fighting plaque and tartar.
- Made with natural ingredients plus added vitamins and minerals.
- VOHC-accepted and veterinarian recommended.
- Some bags may contain infestations.
- Can be expensive compared to other dental treats.
- Not all dogs enjoy the texture or flavor.
Benefits of Dental Chews for Dogs
You’ll find that dental chews aren’t just tasty treats for your dog – they’re powerful tools that fight plaque, massage gums, and prevent serious health issues.
Just like your morning tooth-brushing routine, these vet-approved chews work to keep your pup’s teeth clean and breath fresh, making those slobbery kisses much more enjoyable with fresh breath.
Removing Plaque and Tartar Buildup
The power of dental chews for dogs lies in their proven plaque removal abilities.
Recent studies show they can reduce plaque by 15.2% and tartar buildup by an impressive 78.4%.
The special textures and ridges of plaque removal chews reach spots where regular oral care might miss.
For the best results, selecting best dog dental chews that are suitable for your dog’s size and breed is recommended.
Reducing Risk of Gum Disease
Nearly 80% of dogs develop gum disease by age three, but you’re not powerless against it.
Regular use of dental chews creates a protective barrier against harmful bacteria that cause gingivitis.
These vet-recommended chews work double-duty – they’re not just plaque removal tools, they’re gum health champions.
The gentle massaging action stimulates blood flow to your pup’s gums, promoting stronger tissue and healthier teeth.
Freshening Breath and Oral Hygiene
Beyond protecting your pup’s gum health, fresh breath dog chews work like natural mouth cleaners.
Scientific studies show these dental chews substantially reduce breath-causing sulfur compounds, while acting as daily floss for your dog’s teeth.
Your dog’s oral hygiene improves as these plaque removal chews target hard-to-reach spots between teeth, making those slobbery kisses much more pleasant for everyone.
Choosing The Right Dental Chews for Your Dog
You’ll want to pick dental chews that match your dog’s size and chewing style, with the VOHC seal guaranteeing safety and effectiveness.
While the market offers countless options, from plant-based treats to durable bones, you can narrow down your choice by focusing on texture, ingredients, and caloric content that work best for your furry friend.
VOHC Seal of Approval and Safety
While dental chews can freshen breath, you’ll want to look for the VOHC seal on the package – it’s like a gold star for dental treats.
The Veterinary Oral Health Council puts products through rigorous testing, requiring at least 15% reduction in plaque or tartar.
Vet-recommended chews with VOHC certification must pass strict safety standards and clinical trials, giving you peace of mind that they’re safe and effective.
When selecting the best dog dental chews, consider the benefits of daily use and the importance of combining them with regular veterinary cleanings for ideal oral health.
Size, Texture, and Durability Considerations
How can you pick the perfect dental chew that’s safe and effective for your pup?
Start by matching the size to your dog’s weight – small breeds need tiny chews while larger dogs require substantial ones that won’t pose choking risks.
Look for durable chews with grooved surfaces that maintain their shape during use, and consider durable dog options for long-lasting results.
Chews should have a firm yet slightly yielding texture that encourages thorough chewing without splintering, which is key to finding the perfect dental chew for a safe experience.
Ingredients and Caloric Content
Choosing natural dog chews means digging deep into what’s inside them.
Smart pet parents check ingredient sourcing and caloric density to keep their pups healthy.
For convenient shopping, explore these low-calorie dog chew options.
When picking your healthy dog chews, focus on these essentials:
- VOHC-approved ingredients for proven dental benefits
- Natural protein sources without artificial additives
- Low calorie content (under 50 calories for small breeds)
- USA-sourced ingredients with quality control testing
How to Incorporate Dental Chews Safely
You’ll want to confirm your pup’s dental treat routine is both safe and effective, just like planning a balanced diet.
While dental chews can work wonders for your dog’s oral health, you’ll need to follow some essential guidelines to prevent choking hazards and maintain the right caloric balance.
Recommended Frequency of Use
Consistency is key with your dog’s dental care routine.
Your daily chew allowance should be one treat, ideally after meals when food debris needs clearing.
For best results, establish a chew timing schedule – morning or evening works equally well.
For more options, check out these recommended dental chews.
Remember to integrate dental chews into a broader care plan that includes professional cleanings, and adjust frequency based on your pup’s individual chewing habits and health needs.
Monitoring Chewing Habits
Now that you’ve established a routine with dental chews, watch how your dog interacts with them.
Every pup has unique chewing habits that affect their safety and the chew’s effectiveness.
- Look for aggressive chewing or gulping habits that might lead to swallowing pieces too quickly
- Monitor chew duration – it should last 5-10 minutes for ideal cleaning
- Check for chew consistency changes that could indicate wear or breakdown
Remember, adjusting portions or switching to a tougher chew might be needed if your dog’s too rough with their treats.
Combining With Professional Cleanings
Professional teeth cleaning forms the backbone of your dog’s dental care routine.
While VOHC approved dental chews help maintain daily hygiene, they can’t replace annual cleanings.
Your vet’s deep-cleaning expertise tackles issues that chews can’t reach.
For convenient access to a variety of options, explore these vet approved chews.
| Timing | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Pre-cleaning | Continue dental chews until 24h before |
| Post-cleaning | Wait 48h to resume chews |
| Frequency | Annual cleanings for most dogs |
| High-risk breeds | May need cleanings every 6 months |
This routine is crucial for your dog’s overall health, emphasizing the importance of annual cleanings and the role of dental chews in maintaining daily hygiene.
Common Mistakes When Using Dental Chews
You might be surprised at how many pet parents unintentionally make mistakes with dental chews.
From choosing the wrong size to treating them like a replacement for teeth brushing, while dental chews can be a fantastic tool for your dog’s oral health, knowing these common pitfalls will help you use them safely and effectively.
Ignoring Size and Chew Safety
While looking for safe dog chews, matching the size to your pup isn’t just a suggestion – it’s essential for preventing choking hazards and dental injuries.
You’ll want to avoid inappropriate size dental chews that your dog could swallow whole or struggle to handle.
Watch for obstruction dangers with treats that are too small or large, as these swallowing risks can turn your well-meaning dental care into an emergency vet visit.
Overuse Leading to Excess Calories
Those dental chews might keep your pup’s teeth clean, but they pack more calories than you’d expect.
You’ll want to factor chew frequency into your dog’s daily calorie intake – they should make up no more than 10% of their diet.
Considering the best dog dental chews can help you make informed decisions about your dog’s oral health.
Too many treats can lead to weight gain, so consider low calorie dog chews or breaking them in half.
Just like us, portion sizes matter for your four-legged friend.
Using Chews as a Replacement for Brushing
Many pet parents hope dog dental chews can be a complete replacement for brushing, but research shows they can’t do the job alone.
Think of dental chews as supplementing brushing rather than replacing it – like using mouthwash instead of brushing your own teeth.
Your pup’s dental care needs both: regular brushing for thorough cleaning and dental chews for extra plaque-fighting power.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the best dog dental chews?
The most trusted dental chews for your pup include Virbac Tartar Control, Greenies Originals, and VOHC-approved Whimzees.
They’re all terrific at fighting plaque while being tasty treats your dog will love.
What is the best food for teeth?
Studies show dry kibble helps clean teeth naturally.
You’ll want to choose dental diets like Science Diet Oral Care or Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Dental, which are specially formulated to scrub teeth while eating.
What are dog dental chews?
Dog dental chews are specially designed treats that help clean your pup’s teeth while they enjoy a tasty snack.
They’re textured to reduce plaque and tartar buildup, massage gums, and freshen breath.
Are dental chews a good substitute for dog food?
Even if they’re the tastiest treats on Earth, dental chews can’t replace your dog’s food.
They’re supplements meant to help with oral care, not meals.
You’ll need proper dog food for nutrition.
Are dental chews safe for dogs?
Yes, dental chews are safe when you choose VOHC-approved products and supervise your pet.
Just match the chew size to your pup’s mouth, introduce them gradually, and don’t exceed 10% of daily calories.
Is dentalife a good dog chew?
Like a dental hygienist in a bag, Purina DentaLife delivers powerful oral care for your pup. You’ll find it’s VOHC-approved, made with high-quality ingredients, and effectively reduces plaque buildup.
What is the most effective dog dental chew?
Virbac C.E.T. VeggieDent chews consistently outperform other brands in reducing plaque and tartar.
You’ll find their Z-shaped design and plant-based formula especially effective for maintaining your dog’s dental health long-term.
What do vets say about dental chews for dogs?
Just as brushing keeps your smile bright, vets recommend VOHC-approved dental chews for your pup’s daily dental care.
But remember, they’re not a substitute for professional cleanings – they complement them.
Do dental treats really work for dogs?
Yes, dental chews work effectively when used daily. They’ll help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, freshen breath, and massage gums. However, they can’t replace regular brushing or professional dental cleanings.
Are greenies or dentastix better?
Like two champions in a dental ring, both pack powerful benefits.
Greenies excel with natural ingredients and VOHC approval, while Dentastix shine with budget-friendly pricing.
You’ll win either way for your pup’s smile.
Conclusion
Armed with the right knowledge about the best dental chews for dogs, you’re ready to make smart choices for your pup’s oral health.
Remember to pick treats that match your dog’s size, monitor their chewing habits, and combine these treats with regular dental care.
While dental chews aren’t magic solutions, they’re valuable tools in your pet’s dental care toolkit, and your furry friend’s fresh breath and healthy smile will thank you for the extra attention.
