7 Best Dog Treats for Dental Health
I’ll admit, I didn’t think much about dental health for dogs until it became a problem for Toby, my sweet Cockapoo mix. Watching him go through the pain of having teeth removed was heartbreaking. I knew I had to do something to protect his gums and keep his remaining teeth healthy. That’s when I started looking into dental treats.
Turns out, dental chews are fantastic for fighting plaque and tartar, and they even help with stinky breath (which by the way is often a sign of tooth decay!). After a lot of trial and error (and Toby’s enthusiastic taste tests), I’ve rounded up the best dog dental treats to share with you.
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Why Dental Health Matters for Dogs
Keeping your dog’s teeth clean isn’t just about avoiding bad breath; it’s essential for their overall health. Plaque and tartar can build up quickly, leading to gum disease, tooth loss, and even more serious infections that affect their heart or kidneys. By age three, most dogs already show signs of dental disease, which is why prevention is so important.
Regular chewing can reduce plaque, and studies show certain treats can cut tartar build-up by up to 70%. Paired with annual vet check-ups, these simple steps can make a huge difference in your dog’s health and happiness.
What Makes a Good Dental Treat?
Dental treats aren’t just snacks—they’re specifically designed to clean teeth and reduce plaque. Many are made with special textures that scrub the teeth as your dog chews. Others have added ingredients to fight bacteria and freshen breath.
The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) is an excellent resource when choosing dental treats. Products with their seal of approval have been tested and proven to reduce plaque or tartar by at least 10-20%.
While dental treats don’t replace brushing, they make oral care easier, especially for dogs who aren’t fans of having their teeth brushed. Combining treats with regular brushing and vet visits is the best way to keep your dog’s teeth healthy.
My Picks for the Best Dog Treats for Dental Health
After lots of research (and Toby’s thorough taste testing), these are my top seven dental treats:
1. Greenies Regular Dog Dental Treats
Greenies are a classic for a reason. They’re great for tackling plaque and tartar, come in different sizes for all breeds, and are easy to digest. Plus, dogs love the taste!
2. Virbac CET Veggiedent FR3SH Tartar Control Chews
If your pup has a sensitive stomach or you prefer plant-based options, these Z-shaped chews are perfect. They’re gluten-free and help reduce tartar effectively.
3. Purina DentaLife Chews
With a long stick shape and ridges, these chews do a great job of scrubbing away plaque. Bonus: they’re excellent for freshening breath.
4. Pedigree Dentastix
An affordable option that works surprisingly well. Their unique X-shape gets down to the gumline and delivers essential nutrients.
5. Pupford Dental Chews
Low-calorie and minty fresh, these thicker chews are perfect for dogs who like to take their time.
6. OraVet Hygiene Dental Chews
Packed with delmopinol (a plaque-fighting ingredient), these chews are amazing for gum health and preventing gingivitis.
7. Milk-Bone Original Brushing Chews
With a crunchy texture and added vitamins, these treats help clean teeth while supporting overall oral health.
Why I Trust VOHC-Approved Treats (and so should you!)
The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) reviews dental products to ensure they actually work. Products with the VOHC seal have been rigorously tested to reduce plaque or tartar by at least 10-20%, depending on the formulation.
While VOHC doesn’t test for safety, their approval is a strong indicator of effectiveness. For me, it’s something I look for when choosing dental treats for Toby.
Dental Chews Are Great, but Not a Magic Fix
Dental chews are an excellent tool, but they’re not a complete solution. They help reduce plaque and tartar, but they can’t clean every surface of your dog’s teeth, especially tricky areas like the back molars. Regular brushing is still essential, even if it’s just a few times a week.
They also can’t fix existing dental issues like gum disease or severe tartar build-up. That’s where regular vet visits come in. Professional cleanings can reach areas that chews and brushing miss, catching problems before they become serious.
Finally, choosing the right chew matters. Make sure it’s the right size and texture for your dog to avoid choking or tooth damage. Supervise your dog while they chew to ensure their safety.
When combined with brushing, vet check-ups, and a healthy diet, dental chews are a fantastic way to keep your dog’s teeth and gums healthy.
Adding dental chews to Toby’s routine has made a noticeable difference in his oral health. His breath is fresher, his teeth are cleaner, and he looks forward to his daily chew.
While no single product can replace brushing or vet visits, dental chews are a valuable part of a comprehensive care plan. With the right combination of habits, you can help your dog maintain a healthy smile and enjoy better overall health.
