Best Dog Dental Chews: Top 10 Vet-Approved Treats to Keep Teeth Healthy (2024)

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When searching for the best dog dental chews, look for treats with the VOHC seal, indicating they effectively reduce plaque and tartar buildup.

Greenies, Dentastix, and Milk-Bone Brushing Chews are top vet-recommended options, offering abrasive textures to scrape away buildup while freshening breath.

Consider your pup’s size, calorie intake, and dental condition when choosing.

For the best possible oral health, pair quality dental chews with regular professional cleanings.

By investing in the right chews, you’ll help guarantee your furry friend’s teeth stay healthy and strong for years to come.

You’ll discover more invaluable tips to maintain that winning smile.

Top 10 Dog Dental Chews

You’re looking to keep your dog’s teeth in tip-top shape, and dental chews can be a great addition to their oral care routine. From trusted brands like Greenies, Pedigree Dentastix, Milk-Bone, and Virbac, there are vet-approved options formulated with scientifically-backed ingredients to help remove plaque and tartar buildup, freshen breath, and promote gum health.

1. Greenies Regular Dental Dog Treats

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Greenies Regular Dental Dog Treats are a popular choice for dog owners seeking to better their pet’s dental health. These chews are designed to clean dogs’ teeth by fighting both plaque and tartar buildup, freshening breath, and maintaining healthier teeth and gums. The unique texture of these treats cleans down to the gumline, effectively removing plaque and tartar. Greenies are vet-recommended and accepted by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) for at-home dental care.

Each Greenies product features the VOHC Seal of Acceptance, which verifies that the product is effective in retarding plaque and tartar when used as directed. They’re made with natural ingredients, including vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that supplement a dog’s diet. Greenies are suitable for medium breed dogs and are available in various package sizes.

It is recommended to feed one Greenies Dental Chew per day for dogs weighing 25-50 lbs. They aren’t suitable for dogs under 5 lbs or dogs less than 6 months of age. Greenies are safe to digest and can be given daily. To guarantee the treat is adequately chewed, monitor your dog to prevent gulping, which can be harmful or even fatal.

Greenies have been involved in two lawsuits, one in 2006 and the other in 2015, but they haven’t been recalled. Despite some concerns about the use of unspecified ingredients and natural fruit juice color, Greenies are generally considered worth it for their dental benefits.

Best For: Dog owners seeking to improve their pet’s dental health and maintain healthy teeth and gums.

2. Pedigree Dentastix Original Dental Dog Treats

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As regards the preservation of your canine companion’s dental hygiene, Pedigree Dentastix Original Dental Dog Delicacies are a masticatory remedy that might well induce your dog to wag its tail with exuberance.

These treats have been meticulously crafted with a distinctive texture that facilitates the removal of plaque and tartar, notably in regions that are difficult to access.

Their purpose extends beyond mere cleansing, as they also impart freshness to the breath by virtue of a patented ingredient complex.

Appropriate for breeds of petite to medium stature, these treats constitute a rawhide-free alternative for daily dental maintenance.

Envision your puppy’s countenance after gnawing upon these—pearly whites and minty breath could engender an augmentation of joyful canine kisses.

Best For: Small and medium breed dogs who need help with dental hygiene.

3. Milk-Bone Original Brushing Chews Dog Treats

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Milk-Bone Original Brushing Chews Dog Treats are a popular choice for maintaining canine oral health.

These treats are scientifically designed and formulated to help maintain canine oral health, with a unique formula, firmer texture, patented design, and toothpaste-like packaging.

They’ve undergone clinical testing to earn the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) Seal of Acceptance for tartar control, demonstrating their effectiveness in reducing tartar buildup and bad breath.

Milk-Bone Brushing Chews are available in different sizes, including large, small/medium, and mini, catering to dogs with varying weights and sizes.

Best For: Dogs of all ages and sizes looking to maintain healthy teeth and gums.

4. Oravet Dental Chews Small Dogs

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OraVet Dental Chews for Small Dogs are a popular choice for pet owners looking to maintain their dog’s oral health. These chews contain delmopinol, a human oral rinse ingredient that creates a protective barrier against bacterial attachment, preventing plaque and tartar buildup. They’re formulated to be easily digestible and have a vanilla flavor that dogs find appealing.

OraVet Dental Chews are recommended for dogs six months of age or older weighing 3.5 pounds or more. They’re designed to work with a dog’s natural chewing action, loosening and dislodging plaque, and are clinically proven to reduce plaque and tartar buildup. They’re also suitable for small breeds and are available in different sizes to fit various dog weights.

It is important to note that OraVet Dental Chews should be given as directed by a veterinarian and shouldn’t be under-dosed, as this may present a risk of choking. They should also be given one per day and kept out of reach of children and animals.

These chews have received positive reviews from pet owners, with some reporting improved dental health and fresher breath in their dogs. However, they may cause gum irritation if swallowed whole, and some dogs may experience vomiting or have the chew’s color appear in their stool.

Best For: Owners of small dogs looking to maintain their dog’s oral health.

5. Virbac Cet Veggiedent Fr3sh Dental Chews

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Virbac C.E.T. VeggieDent Fr3sh Tartar Control Dog Chews are a plant-based dental chew that can help reduce plaque buildup and tartar in dogs.

These chews are made without animal protein, wheat gluten, artificial, or GMO ingredients, making them suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs.

The z-shaped chews are designed to scrub plaque from your dog’s teeth when they bite down, and they also freshen bad breath.

The chews are low enough in calories that they can be given daily, and they’re VOHC approved, indicating their effectiveness in controlling tartar.

Best For: Dogs with specific dietary needs looking for a plant-based dental chew.

6. Dental Dog Treats Small Medium

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Dental Dog Treats Small Medium are an excellent option for maintaining your dog’s oral health, particularly for small to medium-sized breeds. These treats are designed to assist in reducing plaque and tartar accumulation, promoting improved dental health and overall well-being.

Best For: Small and medium-sized dogs who need to improve their oral health.

7. Whimzees Wellness Variety Dental Dog Treats

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Regarding maintaining your furry companion’s teeth sparkling and gums healthy, Whimzees Wellness Variety Dental Dog Treats revolutionize dental care.

These treats are more than mere snacks; they’re a force for dental well-being.

Composed of vegetarian, gluten-free ingredients, they feature a distinctive knobby design that invigorates gums and channels that penetrate between teeth for a comprehensive cleaning.

Furthermore, they’re low in fat and abound with vitamins and antioxidants, promoting overall health.

It’s worth mentioning that they’re produced sustainably without artificial additives, making them an ethical option for your canine friend.

So, if you seek to enhance your dog’s dental health and maintain their enthusiastic tail wags, Whimzees are the optimal choice.

Best For: Dogs seeking dental health improvement and a healthy lifestyle.

8. Blue Buffalo Dental Bones Dog Treats

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Blue Buffalo Dental Bones are a popular choice for dog owners seeking a natural, highly digestible dental chew for their pets. These treats are structured to aid in cleaning teeth, rejuvenating breath, and maintaining healthy teeth and gums in dogs. They’re devoid of chicken or poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, and soy, as well as synthetic preservatives and colors like red dye 40. The regular size of Blue Buffalo Dental Bones is appropriate for dogs weighing between 25 and 50 pounds.

These dental chews come in various sizes, including small, regular, and large, accommodating dogs of diverse sizes and chewing capabilities. They’re also available in puppy and wilderness grain-free varieties, providing options for dogs with distinct dietary requirements. It’s vital to select the suitable size of Blue Buffalo Dental Bones for your dog, as overfeeding or underfeeding can result in health issues. Always monitor your dog while they’re chewing to guarantee they chew the treat adequately and provide fresh drinking water.

Blue Buffalo Dental Bones aren’t suitable for puppies or dogs under 5 pounds. They’re formulated with added minerals and wholesome ingredients, making them a healthy treat choice for dogs. However, they may not be suitable for dogs with food allergies, as they contain ingredients like rice, vegetable glycerin, and natural flavor.

When contemplating Blue Buffalo Dental Bones for your dog, it’s vital to confer with your veterinarian for specific recommendations based on your pet’s size, weight, and any existing health conditions. Regular veterinary checkups and dental cleanings are critical for maintaining your dog’s overall oral health.

Best For: Dogs seeking a natural, highly digestible dental chew to maintain oral health.

9. Ark Naturals Brushless Dental Dog Treats

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Seeking a dental chew that’s not just effective but also natural?

Consider Ark Naturals Brushless Dental Dog Treats.

These treats aid in maintaining your dog’s dental health without synthetic additives.

They’re crafted with all-natural ingredients and are devoid of grains, gluten, and soy, making them ideal for dogs with sensitive digestive systems.

Additionally, they come in various sizes to accommodate your dog’s needs.

Please provide supervision during chewing and consult your veterinarian for tailored recommendations.

Best For: Dogs seeking a natural and effective dental chew.

10. Bocces Bakery Dailies Brushy Sticks Coconut Mint

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Bocces Bakery Dailies Brushy Sticks Coconut Mint is a dental treat designed to support your dog’s dental health and provide fresh breath.

These treats are made with simple, limited ingredients, including nutty coconut and crisp mint, which help in cleaning your dog’s teeth and keeping their breath fresh.

They’re bristle-shaped, providing extra cleaning power.

The treats are available in three sizes, guaranteeing you can choose the right one for your dog based on their weight.

They’re wheat-free, made with 100% real ingredients, and baked in the USA.

The recommended feeding instruction is to feed one Brushy Stick per day.

It’s crucial to observe your dog to ensure they chew the treat properly to avoid choking hazards.

Best For: Dogs of all ages and breeds who need dental support and fresh breath.

What to Look for in Dog Dental Chews?

When choosing dental chews for your dog, search for the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal, which verifies the treat’s potency in decreasing plaque and tartar buildup. Examine factors such as cleaning ability, palatability, flavor, and endurance to identify a suitable option that not just furthers oral well-being but also aligns with your pet’s flavor preferences and chewing proclivities.

VOHC Registered Seal

The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) is a non-profit organization that aims to promote oral health in dogs and cats by providing a seal of acceptance for products that help control plaque and tartar. Here’s what you need to know about the VOHC seal:

1. Seal approval process: To earn the VOHC seal, products must undergo rigorous testing to demonstrate their effectiveness in controlling plaque and tartar on dogs’ and cats’ teeth. The testing criteria include a minimum of two separate trials, with differences in at least two of the following criteria: population of test animals, location of trial, date of trials, and principle investigator/scorer.
2. VOHC testing criteria: Products must be tested using standardized protocols, and the teeth to be scored are prescribed for each species based on their importance, likelihood of accumulating plaque and tartar, and likelihood of being present in the mouth of a patient with moderate periodontal disease. The trials must show a 15% reduction in plaque or calculus score between the test and negative control groups in each trial, a 20% reduction for chemical plaque control, and an average ≥20% reduction across the two trials.
3. VOHC member benefits: VOHC membership provides benefits such as access to standardized protocols, increased research in the field of plaque and calculus control, and easier interpretation of claims for practitioners and clients. The VOHC seal is a reliable indicator of a product’s ability to help control plaque and tartar in dogs and cats.
4. VOHC certification validity: The VOHC seal is valid for as long as the product continues to meet the VOHC’s standards and requirements. The VOHC seal is a registered mark that mustn’t be used in association with specific products without prior approval from the VOHC.
5. VOHC seal requirements: To use the VOHC seal, companies must sign a formal Agreement governing use of the seal, which includes specific language regarding advertising, packaging, etc.. The VOHC seal will be provided to the company as an electronic image, and the specific claim(s) for which the Seal was awarded must be included as part of the Seal on product packaging and advertisements.

Cleaning Power

When choosing dog dental chews, consider their cleaning power. Look for chews with a suitable texture for your dog and high-quality ingredients that support dental benefits. VOHC approval indicates plaque reduction and tartar control. Enzymatic dental chews can enhance cleaning power. Remember, a dog’s dental plaque is a concern, so choose chews that address this issue effectively.

Edibility

When selecting dental chews for your dog, evaluate the chew’s edibility, texture, and hardness to guarantee safety and proper digestion. Edible chews consist of natural ingredients and are safe for your dog to consume, even if they ingest some of the chew’s shavings. However, they aren’t suitable for all dogs, as some may have sensitive stomachs or allergies to certain ingredients. Hence, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian to determine the optimal chew for your dog’s specific needs.

Regarding texture, the chew should be neither excessively hard nor too soft. A chew that’s too hard may result in tooth fractures or pose a choking risk, while a chew that’s too soft may not effectively remove plaque and tartar. The chew’s size should also be appropriate for your dog, as a chew that’s too large may cause discomfort or injury to your dog’s mouth.

In addition to considering the chew’s texture and hardness, it’s essential to note the chew’s flavor. While flavor may not be a primary concern for maintaining dental health, it can be a factor in encouraging your dog to chew on the dental chew regularly. Some chews come in various flavors, such as chicken or peanut butter, which may appeal to your dog’s taste preferences.

When selecting dental chews, always consider the chew’s size and weight recommendations, as well as the frequency of use. Dental chews are recommended for daily use to prevent plaque buildup, but it’s crucial to consider your dog’s calorie consumption and food budget. Additionally, seek advice from your veterinarian for specific recommendations based on your dog’s weight and dental health needs.

Flavor

When selecting dental chews for your dog, consider their flavor preference.

Look for chews with a variety of flavors, such as Greenies Regular Dental Dog Treats, Virbac C.E.T. Veggiedent Fr3sh Dental Chews, Whimzees Wellness Variety Dental Dog Treats, Blue Buffalo Dental Bones All Natural Regular Dog Treats, and Ark Naturals Brushless Dental Dog Treats.

These options cater to different tastes and preferences, ensuring your dog enjoys their dental chews while benefiting from their health advantages.

Durability

When picking dog dental chews, think of them as sneakers for a marathon runner. Durability matters! You wouldn’t want your pup to sprint through their treat, risking choking hazards or tooth damage from an inappropriate size.

Benefits of Dental Chews for Dogs

Dental chews offer multiple benefits for your dog’s oral health. They remove plaque and tartar buildup, massage gums to reduce inflammation, maintain tooth health by preventing issues like periodontal disease, freshen breath by reducing bacteria, and aid digestion through the chewing action.

Plaque and Tartar Removal

Dental chews are a crucial component of maintaining your dog’s oral well-being. They can aid in preventing plaque and tartar accumulation, which can result in gum disease, tooth loss, and other health concerns. When selecting dental chews for your dog, consider the following factors:

1. VOHC Seal of Acceptance: Seek out dental chews bearing the VOHC seal, indicating that the product has been научно доказано to reduce plaque and tartar in dogs.
2. Size: Confirm that the chews are appropriately sized for your dog. Avoid treats that are excessively large or small for your pet.
3. Frequency: Dental chews should be utilized daily to prevent plaque buildup.
4. Calorie Considerations: Be aware of the calorie content of edible dental sticks, as they can contribute to your dog’s overall calorie intake.
5. Professional Veterinary Cleaning: Regular professional cleanings at the vet’s office are essential for maintaining your dog’s oral health.
6. Breed-Specific Frequency: Certain breeds may necessitate more frequent professional cleanings than others.
7. Ingredients: Avoid ingredients that may induce allergies or gastrointestinal distress in your dog.
8. Flavor and Edibility: Select dental chews that your dog will relish consuming and that are effortless for them to chew.
9. Durability: Verify that the chews are sufficiently durable to withstand your dog’s chewing habits.

Gum Massage and Inflammation Reduction

Gum massage and inflammation reduction are significant benefits of dog dental chews.

These chews work by promoting gum health, stimulating blood flow, and promoting healthier gum tissues.

They can help reduce gingivitis, periodontal disease, and plaque buildup, which are common issues in dogs.

Additionally, dental chews can freshen your dog’s breath by controlling bacterial growth.

By incorporating dental chews into your dog’s routine, you can support their overall oral health and well-being.

Tooth Health Maintenance and Prevention of Health Issues

Maintaining your dog’s dental health is paramount for their general well-being.

Dog dental chews can aid in preserving oral hygiene, preventing dental problems, and even mitigating bad breath.

These treats can help avoid tooth loss and dental disease, rendering them an integral aspect of your dog’s preventative care routine.

By selecting the appropriate dental chews, you can ensure your canine companion a healthy, contented existence.

Breath Freshening

Dental chews not merely maintain oral hygiene and prevent health issues, but they also freshen your dog’s breath. Here are three ways dental chews contribute to breath freshening:

• Veggiedent Fr3sh Tartar Control Dog Chew: This VOHC-approved chew is engineered to freshen breath while removing tartar and plaque.
• Oravet Dental Care Hygiene Chews: These chews not only mitigate plaque and tartar buildup but also freshen breath.
• Dentalife Daily Oral Care Dental Treats: These treats aid in controlling tartar and plaque while providing breath freshening benefits.

Digestive Assistance

Dog dental chews offer digestive assistance by providing fiber, probiotics, and prebiotics that support gut health. Allergy management is essential, and dental chews with limited ingredients or no common allergens are recommended. Digestive enzymes can also be beneficial for dogs with sensitive tummies. Consult your veterinarian for specific dietary advice.

Choosing the Right Dental Chews for Your Dog

When picking dental chews for your dog, it’s vital to think about the right size based on your pet’s weight and breed to stop choking hazards. It’s also vital to think about the right size based on your pet’s breed to ensure effective cleaning.

While using dental chews every day is suggested for the best mouth hygiene, you should watch your dog’s calorie intake. You should also adjust their regular meals accordingly, as some dental chews can be high in calories.

Regular cleanings by a vet are still needed, as dental chews alone cannot take the place of full dental care.

Size Appropriate for Pet

Deciding the appropriate size for your dog’s dental chews is essential. Here’s a concise guide:

1. Adhere to size recommendations to avert choking risks.
2. Pair chews with tooth size for thorough cleaning.
3. Take into account your dog’s caloric consumption.
4. Steer clear of overly large chews to prevent oral health problems.

Frequent Cleaning (Recommended Daily)

Regular cleaning is essential for preserving your dog’s dental well-being. Dental chews are suggested daily to discourage plaque accumulation. Modify treat usage and calorie consumption consequently. Be vigilant about choking risks and select chews suitable for your dog’s size and chewing tendencies. Consistent veterinary dental scaling, polishing, and radiographs are fundamental.

Calorie Considerations for Edible Dental Sticks

When selecting edible dental sticks for your dog, consider calorie consumption and food budget. Choose chews appropriate for your dog’s weight and size. Plan meals to avoid overfeeding. Look for chews with limited allergens or ingredients that cause stomach upset, such as grain-free or vegetarian options. Consult your veterinarian for dietary advice for dogs with health conditions.

Regular Professional Veterinary Cleaning and Checkups

Regular professional veterinary cleaning and checkups are essential for your dog’s dental health.

Dental exams under anesthesia aid in detecting issues early, reducing anesthesia risks.

Post-cleaning care includes home dental care and professional frequency, which may vary depending on your dog’s oral health.

Dog dental chews can be incorporated into your dog’s daily routine, but they should not substitute for regular dental cleanings and checkups.

Dental Chew Usage Guidelines

Dental chew usage guidelines are essential for maintaining your dog’s oral health.

Chewing frequency should be daily to prevent plaque accumulation.

Nutritional value, cost, and efficacy should be considered when selecting dental chews.

Calorie consumption should be adjusted according to the chews’ nutritional content.

Choking risks should be avoided, and chews should be appropriate for your dog’s size.

Regular professional veterinary cleaning and checkups are necessary for maintaining dental health.

The frequency of professional checkups may vary depending on the breed.