Looking after your pup’s teeth matters a lot, just like your own shiny chompers. Dental chews work wonders to keep those doggie smiles sparkling. These awesome treats clean teeth, freshen breath, and cut down on tartar. You can find them in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and flavors. Some even help with joint health or ease anxiety. Watch your furry friend grin with joy by treating them to dental chews today!
When it comes to choosing the best dental chews for your dog, there are a few things to consider. First, you’ll want to make sure that the chews are the right size for your dog’s breed and weight. Giving your dog a chew that’s too small or too large can be a choking hazard or ineffective at cleaning their teeth. You’ll also want to look for chews that are made from high-quality, natural ingredients and are free from artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors.
After researching and testing various dental chews, we’ve identified the top picks for the best dental chews for dogs. These chews not only effectively clean teeth and freshen breath, but they’re also made from safe and healthy ingredients that your dog will love.
Best Dental Chews for Dogs
As dog owners, we know how important it is to maintain our furry friends’ dental hygiene. Regular brushing is recommended, but let’s face it, not all dogs are cooperative when it comes to having their teeth brushed. That’s where dental chews come in handy. Not only do they help clean teeth and freshen breath, but they also provide a tasty treat for your pet to enjoy. After researching and testing various options, we have compiled a list of the best dental chews for dogs.
1. ORAVET Dental Chews for Dogs
If you’re looking for an effective dental chew for your dog, we highly recommend the ORAVET Dental Chews for Dogs. These chews are designed to provide at-home dental care for your furry friend. They use your dog’s own chewing action to loosen and dislodge plaque, promoting good oral health.
Pros
- ORAVET chews are clinically shown to reduce plaque and tartar build-up, helping to keep your dog’s teeth cleaner and fresher.
- These chews contain delmopinol, an ingredient used in human oral care rinses, which forms a protective barrier against the bacteria that lead to plaque, tartar, and bad breath.
- ORAVET chews are easy to give to your dog on a daily basis and are formulated to be easily digestible.
Cons
- ORAVET chews are a bit pricey compared to other dental chews on the market.
- Some dogs may not like the vanilla aroma and poultry flavor of the chews.
- These chews are only suitable for dogs and puppies six months of age or older weighing 3.5 pounds or more.
In our experience, the ORAVET Dental Chews for Dogs are a great investment in your dog’s oral health. We’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s breath and overall dental hygiene since starting him on these chews. Plus, they’re easy to give to your dog on a daily basis and have a pleasant aroma and flavor.
If you’re looking for an effective dental chew for your dog, we highly recommend giving ORAVET Dental Chews a try. Along with regular veterinary dental checkups, ORAVET chews are designed to be part of your dog’s daily dental home-care routine to promote good oral health.
2. Virbac CET Veggiedent FR3SH Tartar Control Chews for Dogs
If you’re looking for a dental chew that can clean your dog’s teeth, freshen their breath, and support proper digestion, then the Virbac CET Veggiedent FR3SH Tartar Control Chews for Dogs might be the perfect fit.
Pros
- The plant-based chew has a unique “Z shape” that maximizes prehension, allowing the chew to scrape away the tartar in hard-to-reach places while enhancing the mechanical action of chewing.
- It addresses the oral causes of bad breath to freshen your dog’s breath over the short and long term, with a significant improvement from day one.
- The chew contains a prebiotic known to promote a balanced and healthy gut flora, supporting proper digestion.
Cons
- The chews are a bit pricey compared to other dental chews on the market.
- Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the chews.
- The chews may not work as effectively for dogs with severe dental issues.
We’ve been using the Virbac CET Veggiedent FR3SH Tartar Control Chews for Dogs for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s breath and dental health. The chews are easy to give to our dog, and he seems to enjoy the taste and texture. We appreciate that the chews are plant-based, gluten-free, and easily digestible, making them a healthy treat for our dog.
Overall, we highly recommend the Virbac CET Veggiedent FR3SH Tartar Control Chews for Dogs to any pet owner looking for a dental chew that can clean their dog’s teeth, freshen their breath, and support proper digestion.
3. Minties Dental Chews for Dogs
If you’re looking for a dental chew that is affordable and made from natural ingredients, Minties Dental Chews for Dogs is a great option. We’ve been using it for a while now, and here’s what we think.
Pros
- The bumps and divots on the chews are carefully designed and positioned for maximum tooth abrasion, which helps to clean teeth, freshen breath, remove plaque, and tartar.
- Made in the USA, Minties Dental Chews for Dogs contains no wheat, soy, corn, artificial flavor, or animal by-products.
- Chewing Minties Dog Dental Treats daily helps to promote good dog oral health and freshens your dog’s breath.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the mint flavor.
- The chews may not be suitable for dogs with sensitive teeth.
- The chews may not last very long for aggressive chewers.
Overall, we recommend Minties Dental Chews for Dogs as an affordable and effective option for promoting good oral health in dogs. The unique design of the chews encourages dogs to chew, which helps to remove plaque, tartar, and bad breath at its source. Plus, the fact that it’s made in the USA and contains natural ingredients is a big plus for us.
In our experience, the chews do a great job of cleaning our dog’s teeth and freshening their breath. However, we did notice that some dogs may not like the mint flavor, so it’s important to take your dog’s preferences into consideration. Additionally, the chews may not be suitable for dogs with sensitive teeth, so it’s always best to consult with your vet before introducing any new dental chews to your dog’s diet.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and effective dental chew for your dog, we highly recommend giving Minties Dental Chews for Dogs a try.
4. Greenies Original Dental Treats
If you’re looking for a natural way to care for your dog’s dental health, Greenies Original Dental Treats are a great option to consider.
Pros
- The unique texture of Greenies chews helps to clean down to the gumline, fighting plaque and tartar buildup while also freshening your dog’s breath.
- These treats are made with natural, easy-to-digest ingredients and are nutritionally complete, so you can feel good about giving them to your dog.
- Greenies Dental Treats are vet-recommended for at-home oral health care and are accepted by the Veterinary Oral Health Council.
Cons
- These treats may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies, so be sure to check the ingredients list before purchasing.
- Some dogs may not find the texture of Greenies chews appealing, which could make it difficult to get them to eat them.
- While Greenies chews are effective at cleaning your dog’s teeth, they may not be a substitute for regular brushing or professional dental cleanings.
In our experience, Greenies Original Dental Treats are a tasty and effective way to care for your dog’s dental health. The natural ingredients and vet-recommended formula give us peace of mind, and our dogs love the delicious flavor. While they may not be suitable for every dog, we highly recommend giving Greenies a try if you’re looking for a natural way to support your dog’s oral health.
5. Pedigree DENTASTIX Fresh Flavor Large Treats
If you’re looking for a dental chew for your large dog, Pedigree DENTASTIX Fresh Flavor Large Treats are worth considering. Here’s what we found:
Pros
- These treats are clinically proven to reduce plaque and tartar buildup in dogs, promoting better oral hygiene and dental care.
- The unique X-shape design of the treats helps clean teeth and freshen breath.
- The fresh mint flavor is a hit with many large breed dogs.
Cons
- These treats may not be suitable for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
- Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the treats.
- While the packaging states that these treats are for large dogs weighing over 30 pounds, some customers have reported that the treats are too small for their larger dogs.
In our experience, Pedigree DENTASTIX Fresh Flavor Large Treats are a convenient and effective way to promote your dog’s dental health. However, it’s important to note that every dog is different and may have different preferences and needs. As always, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best dental care routine for your furry friend.
We found that the treats have a chewy texture that helps remove plaque and tartar buildup from our dog’s teeth. The fresh mint flavor was a hit with our dog, and he seemed to enjoy the treats as a special snack. We also appreciated the convenience of the pre-packaged treats, which made it easy to incorporate them into our dog’s daily routine.
Overall, we would recommend Pedigree DENTASTIX Fresh Flavor Large Treats to other dog owners looking for a convenient and effective way to promote their dog’s dental health. However, as with any new food or treat, it’s important to monitor your dog’s reaction and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best dental chews for your dog, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your purchase:
Size and Texture
Dental chews come in different sizes and textures to accommodate different dog breeds and preferences. It’s important to choose a chew that is the appropriate size for your dog’s mouth to avoid choking hazards. Additionally, the texture of the chew can affect its effectiveness in cleaning teeth and preventing tartar buildup. Look for a chew with a rough texture that can scrape away plaque and massage the gums.
Ingredients
The ingredients in dental chews can vary widely, so it’s important to read the label carefully. Look for chews made with natural ingredients and avoid those with artificial preservatives or additives. Some chews may also contain ingredients like chlorhexidine or enzymes that can help fight bacteria and freshen breath.
Safety
Safety is always a top priority when choosing any product for your pet. Look for dental chews that have been tested for safety and have undergone quality control measures. Avoid chews that are too hard or brittle, as they can break teeth or cause choking. It’s also important to supervise your dog while they are chewing to ensure they don’t swallow large pieces.
Price
Dental chews can vary in price, so it’s important to consider your budget when making a purchase. However, keep in mind that cheaper chews may not be as effective or may contain lower quality ingredients. It’s often worth investing in a higher quality chew that will provide better dental benefits and last longer.
By considering these key features, you can choose the best dental chew for your dog’s needs and help promote their dental health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top vet-recommended dental chews for maintaining canine oral health?
When it comes to maintaining your dog’s oral health, many veterinarians recommend dental chews that are specifically designed to scrape away plaque and tartar buildup. Some of the top vet-recommended options include Greenies, Virbac C.E.T. VeggieDent chews, and OraVet dental hygiene chews.
Which dental chews are safe and effective for dogs with allergies?
If your dog has allergies, it’s important to choose dental chews that are free from common allergens such as wheat, soy, and corn. Some safe and effective options for dogs with allergies include Zuke’s Z-Bones, Whimzees Natural Dental Chews, and Ark Naturals Brushless Toothpaste.
What are the best dental chew options for large breed dogs?
Large breed dogs require dental chews that are durable and large enough to accommodate their size. Some of the best options for large breed dogs include Nylabone DuraChew, Benebone Dental Chew, and KONG Dental Stick.
Are there natural dental chew alternatives that are beneficial for a dog’s dental hygiene?
Yes, there are natural dental chew alternatives that can help maintain your dog’s oral health. Some of these options include raw bones, bully sticks, and deer antlers. However, it’s important to supervise your dog while they chew on these items to prevent choking or other potential hazards.
How do smaller dogs benefit from specially designed dental chews?
Smaller dogs can benefit from dental chews that are specifically designed for their size. These chews can help remove plaque and tartar buildup, freshen breath, and promote overall dental hygiene. Some of the best options for smaller dogs include Greenies Petite, Blue Buffalo Dental Bones, and Pedigree Dentastix.
What types of dental chews are known to effectively combat bad breath in dogs?
Dental chews that contain ingredients such as chlorophyll, parsley, and mint can help combat bad breath in dogs. Some of the best options for freshening your dog’s breath include Greenies Fresh, Merrick Fresh Kisses, and Nylabone Advanced Oral Care.
