Best Chews That Help Remove Tartar Buildup in Dogs
Maintaining your dog’s dental hygiene is essential for their overall health. One of the easiest and most effective ways to combat tartar buildup is by using dental chews. These chews work mechanically to scrub your dog’s teeth as they chew, helping reduce plaque and tartar accumulation.
Why Tartar Removal Is Important
Tartar, a hardened form of plaque, can lead to periodontal disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. If not addressed, it can also cause systemic health issues in your dog. Regular dental care, including the use of tartar-removing chews, can significantly improve your pet’s oral and general health.
How Dental Chews Work
Dental chews clean teeth in several ways:
- Mechanical action: The texture of the chew scrapes off plaque and soft tartar as the dog gnaws on it.
- Chewing time: Longer chewing times result in better cleaning effect.
- Saliva production: Chewing increases saliva, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria.
Recommended Dental Chew Types
Here are some of the most effective types of chews for removing tartar:
- Rawhide Chews: These are traditional chews that soften over time and allow dogs to scrape tartar off their teeth.
- Enzymatic Dental Chews: These contain enzymes that help break down plaque and tartar while the dog chews.
- Compressed Vegetable-Based Chews: These are digestible and often infused with breath-freshening ingredients.
- Nylon Dental Bones: Durable chews designed to promote chewing and scrape tartar without splintering.
- Chews Approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC): These products have met standards that prove they reduce tartar and plaque.
Features to Look For in a Dental Chew
When choosing a dental chew, consider these features to ensure safety and effectiveness:
- Size-appropriate: Select a chew that suits your dog’s size to prevent choking.
- Durability: Should last long enough to be effective but not so hard as to break teeth.
- Digestibility: Ensure the product can be safely consumed and digested.
- Low-calorie: Helpful for dogs on weight management diets.
Additional Tips for Tartar Control
Besides dental chews, here are other steps to maintain your dog’s oral hygiene:
- Daily brushing: Use dog-specific toothpaste and brushes.
- Routine vet visits: Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings detect early signs of disease.
- Dental diets: Specialized kibble designed to reduce plaque and tartar.
- Water additives: Oral hygiene supplements added to drinking water may reduce bacteria.
When to Consult a Veterinarian
If your dog already has heavy tartar buildup or signs of dental disease such as bad breath, bleeding gums, or difficulty eating, it’s best to consult a veterinarian. Chews are most effective for prevention and mild tartar, not as a substitute for professional care.
Conclusion
Dental chews are a convenient and enjoyable way for dogs to clean their teeth naturally. By incorporating VOHC-approved chews and following a complete dental care routine, pet owners can effectively reduce tartar and improve their dog’s oral health. Make tartar control a part of your pet’s everyday care, and you’ll both benefit from more tail wags and fresh kisses.
