The Best Dental Chews for Dogs: What Really Works?
Bad breath and dental disease plague many dogs—about 80% over age three show signs of oral issues. Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to bigger problems like gingivitis, periodontal disease, and even infections. While daily brushing is the gold standard for canine dental care, it’s not always practical. That’s where dental chews step in as a valuable supplement.
Why Use Dental Chews?
Dental chews do more than just freshen your dog’s breath. Their texture and chewing action help reduce tartar and plaque, provide jaw exercise, and sometimes deliver added nutrients that support overall health. Still, not all chews are created equal. Some work better than others—and a few can even be hazardous if they’re too hard or poorly sized.
What Makes a Dental Chew Effective?
- VOHC Seal of Acceptance: This seal means the product has been proven to reduce plaque or tartar.
- Appropriate Texture: The chew should be abrasive enough to clean teeth but not so hard it risks breaking them.
- Safe Ingredients: Choose ingredients that fit your dog’s dietary needs—avoid common allergens if necessary.
- Calorie Content: Make sure treats fit within your pet’s diet.
- Proper Size & Shape: Pick something your dog can chew safely without choking or swallowing whole.
Avoid antlers, bones, or very hard treats—they can crack teeth or cause injury. Always supervise your pet with any chew.
The Top VOHC-Approved Dental Chews for Dogs
- Greenies Dental Chews: These come in various sizes and flavors, help reduce plaque and tartar, freshen breath, and offer options for weight management, puppies, and grain-free diets. They’re made with soluble ingredients fortified with vitamins and minerals.
- Virbac C.E.T. VeggieDent Fr3sh Chews: Plant-based Z-shaped chews that clean teeth through mechanical action—great for dogs with meat or gluten sensitivities.
- OraVet Dental Hygiene Chews: Contain delmopinol to create a barrier against bacteria; especially helpful for large dogs or those prone to bad breath.
- Milk-Bone Brushing Chews: Designed with ridges and nubs to mimic brushing; contain spearmint for fresher breath and no artificial flavors.
- Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Dental Chewz: Rawhide-based chews formulated for tartar control; main ingredient is beefhide (not suitable for dogs with beef allergies).
- Pedigree Dentastix: Available in multiple sizes and flavors; helps reduce tartar buildup effectively.
- ProDen PlaqueOff System Dental Care Bones: Made from seaweed and other natural ingredients (including omega fatty acids), these come in flavors like turkey & cranberry or mint fusion—plus mini varieties for small breeds.
- You’ll also find VOHC-accepted options like Checkups Chews, Tartar Shield Soft Rawhide Chews, and Whimzees Brushzees—each featuring different materials (plant-based or rawhide) to suit sensitive tummies or specific dental needs.
Diets & Supplements That Support Oral Health
Certain dental diets (Hill's Science Diet Oral Care, Royal Canin Dental, Eukanuba Adult Maintenance, Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets DH) are designed to clean teeth as your pet eats. Edible treats often include prebiotics or joint-support nutrients. Water additives, gels, sprays, and powders (like ProDen PlaqueOff Powder or Tropiclean Fresh Breath) can further assist oral care when verified by VOHC standards.
Treat Selection Tips
- Select products made from natural, non-toxic ingredients
- Avoid rawhide if your dog has digestive sensitivities
- Avoid excessively hard chews or cooked bones
No chew replaces regular tooth brushing or professional veterinary care—but they’re a helpful addition when used wisely. For best results combine daily brushing (or as often as possible), VOHC-accepted dental chews or diets, regular vet checkups (including professional cleanings if needed), and watch for signs of dental trouble: bad breath, discolored teeth, drooling, broken/loose teeth, or gum swelling.
