Pets have healthier lives when their teeth are clean. Brushing a pup’s teeth might feel tricky, but here’s a little secret: dental treats can do wonders. They not only make those teeth sparkle, but also keep ’em strong. So, give them a try!
Teeth cleaning treats are specially designed to remove plaque and tartar buildup from a dog’s teeth while also freshening their breath. These treats come in various shapes, sizes, and flavors, making them an excellent alternative to traditional teeth cleaning methods.
When purchasing teeth cleaning treats for your dog, it’s important to pay attention to the ingredients. Look for treats that are made with natural ingredients and avoid those that contain artificial preservatives or fillers. Additionally, the size of the treat should be appropriate for your dog’s breed and size to prevent choking hazards.
At our lab, we spent hours researching and testing various teeth cleaning treats to identify the best ones for your furry friend. In the following sections, we’ll discuss our top picks and what makes them stand out from the rest.
Best Teeth Cleaning Treats for Dogs
As dog owners, we all know the importance of keeping our furry friends’ teeth clean and healthy. Regular brushing and dental checkups are crucial, but did you know that there are also treats that can help maintain your dog’s dental hygiene? In this article, we’ve rounded up the best teeth cleaning treats for dogs that are not only delicious but also effective in promoting good oral health. From dental chews to bones, these treats will help reduce plaque and keep your dog’s breath fresh. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks!
1. WHIMZEES by Wellness Small Dental Chews for Dogs
We highly recommend purchasing WHIMZEES by Wellness Small Dental Chews for Dogs due to its effectiveness in cleaning teeth, freshening breath, and reducing tartar and plaque.
Pros
- These treats last three times longer than leading competitors, providing more cleaning time per treat.
- They are made with no artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, gluten or meat, making them perfect for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities.
- WHIMZEES dental chews are veterinarian recommended and VOHC accepted (Veterinary Oral Health Council).
Cons
- Some dogs may find the chews too hard to eat.
- They may be slightly more expensive than other dental chews on the market.
- Some dogs may not enjoy the taste of the vegetable flavor.
We have been using WHIMZEES by Wellness Small Dental Chews for Dogs for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s dental health. The chews are easy to feed and our dog loves the taste. We appreciate that they are made with natural ingredients and do not contain any artificial additives.
The chews are also long-lasting, providing more cleaning time per treat than other dental chews we have tried. While some dogs may find the chews too hard to eat, we have not experienced any issues with our dog.
Overall, we highly recommend WHIMZEES by Wellness Small Dental Chews for Dogs as an effective and convenient way to maintain your dog’s dental health.
2. Greenies Original Dental Treats
We highly recommend purchasing Greenies Original Dental Treats for your furry friend because they are an effective way to clean teeth, freshen breath, and promote overall oral health.
Pros
- The unique texture of Greenies cleans down to the gumline to fight plaque and tartar and freshen bad dog breath.
- Greenies are veterinarian recommended and accepted by the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council).
- Made with natural, easy-to-digest ingredients and are nutritionally complete.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of Greenies.
- Greenies may cause digestive issues if consumed too quickly or in large quantities.
- Some pet owners may find Greenies to be expensive compared to other dental treats on the market.
Greenies Original Dental Treats are a great way to promote your dog’s oral health. They are made with highly soluble ingredients that are safe and easy to digest. The unique texture of the treat fights plaque and tartar, making it an effective way to clean your dog’s teeth. Additionally, Greenies are veterinarian recommended and accepted by the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council).
While Greenies are a great choice for promoting oral health, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the treat. Additionally, Greenies may cause digestive issues if consumed too quickly or in large quantities. Pet owners should also be aware that Greenies may be more expensive compared to other dental treats on the market.
Overall, we believe that Greenies Original Dental Treats are a great investment in your dog’s oral health. They are made with high-quality ingredients and are an effective way to clean your dog’s teeth and freshen their breath.
3. Nylabone Nutri Dent Dog Dental Treats
If you’re looking for a vet-recommended dental chew for your furry friend, the Nylabone Nutri Dent Dog Dental Treats are a great option. These limited-ingredient dental chews feature 360-degree scrubbing nubs that help clean teeth and freshen breath. Plus, they come in a delicious fresh breath flavor that dogs love.
Pros
- The 360-degree scrubbing nubs help clean teeth and freshen breath.
- The limited-ingredient formula makes these dental chews highly digestible.
- The fresh breath flavor is a hit with dogs.
Cons
- These dental chews may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.
- Some dogs may not enjoy the texture of the dental nubs.
- The chews may be too small for larger dogs.
We’ve been using these dental chews for our dog for a few weeks now, and we’ve noticed a difference in his breath and teeth. The scrubbing nubs really do seem to help clean his teeth, and he seems to enjoy the fresh breath flavor. We appreciate that these chews are made in the USA and contain no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
One thing to keep in mind is that these chews are on the smaller side, so they may not be suitable for larger dogs. Additionally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions, you’ll want to check the ingredient list carefully before giving these chews a try. Overall, we’re happy with our purchase and would recommend these dental chews to other dog owners looking for a natural teeth cleaning solution.
4. Yummy Combs Dog Dental Treats
If you’re looking for an effective and tasty way to keep your dog’s teeth clean, Yummy Combs Dog Dental Treats are worth considering.
Pros
- The patented honeycomb shape provides 360-degree flossing and scrubbing action that cleans each tooth all the way to the gum line for improved oral care and reduced foul odor dog breath.
- Yummy Combs are easy to chew but work like dental floss for a more complete clean than a toothbrush or other chews.
- The treats combine dog dental treats, nutrient treats, protein treats, and safety treats into one healthy and delicious treat.
Cons
- Yummy Combs are more expensive than some other dental treats on the market.
- Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the treats.
- The treats may not work as well for dogs with severe dental issues.
We’ve been using Yummy Combs for a few weeks now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s breath and overall oral health. The honeycomb shape of the treats appears to be very effective at cleaning teeth and gums, and our dog seems to enjoy the taste and texture of the treats.
One thing to keep in mind is that Yummy Combs are more expensive than some other dental treats on the market. However, we feel that the added benefits of these treats are worth the extra cost.
Overall, we would recommend Yummy Combs Dog Dental Treats to anyone looking for an effective and tasty way to keep their dog’s teeth clean and healthy.
5. PEDIGREE DENTASTIX Dental Dog Treats for Toy/Small Dogs Fresh Flavor Dental Bones
If you’re looking for a tasty treat that also helps keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy, the PEDIGREE DENTASTIX Dental Dog Treats are a great choice.
Pros
- The unique X-shape design helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup, promoting oral health and hygiene.
- The fresh mint flavor is a hit with small and toy dogs.
- The treats are easy to digest and can be given daily for maximum benefits.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the treats.
- The treats may not be suitable for dogs with certain health conditions or dietary restrictions.
- The packaging may not be resealable, which can lead to the treats going stale.
We recently tried the PEDIGREE DENTASTIX Dental Dog Treats for our small dog, and we were impressed with the results. The treats have a chewy texture that our dog loves, and the fresh mint flavor helps keep his breath smelling fresh.
One of the best things about these treats is the unique X-shape design, which is clinically proven to reduce plaque and tartar buildup. We noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s dental health after just a few weeks of giving him these treats daily.
The treats are also easy to digest and can be given daily for maximum benefits. However, we did notice that some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the treats, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s reaction and adjust accordingly.
Overall, we highly recommend the PEDIGREE DENTASTIX Dental Dog Treats for anyone looking for a tasty and effective way to promote their dog’s oral health and hygiene.
6. Arm & Hammer for Pets Nubbies Dental Treats
If you’re looking for a tasty treat that can also help to clean your dog’s teeth, then Arm & Hammer Nubbies Dental Treats for Dogs are definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The raised inch nubbies inch on the treats help to remove plaque and tartar as your dog chews, making them easier than brushing.
- The power of baking soda and natural chlorophyll freshens breath and provides superior dental hygiene, eliminating bad dog breath naturally.
- Even the most finicky dogs love the taste of Arm and Hammer Nubbies, making them a great option for picky eaters.
Cons
- While they are a safer, healthier, tastier alternative to rawhide, they may not be as long-lasting as some other dental chews on the market.
- Some reviewers have noted that they did not see a significant improvement in their dog’s teeth or tartar buildup after using these treats.
- The smell of the treats can be off-putting to some owners, as they have a distinct odor that some describe as “rotten fish.”
We’ve found that Arm & Hammer Nubbies Dental Treats are a great addition to our dog’s dental care routine. They’re highly digestible, making them suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs, and they’re infused with baking soda, making them a safe, gentle, and effective way to care for your dog’s teeth. Plus, with a satisfaction guarantee, you can feel confident in your purchase.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and tasty way to help keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy, we would definitely recommend giving Arm & Hammer Nubbies Dental Treats a try.
7. Amazon Brand – Wag Dental Dog Treats
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to keep your dog’s teeth clean and breath fresh, the Amazon Brand – Wag Dental Dog Treats is worth considering.
Pros
- Helps reduce plaque & tartar build-up through the abrasive action of chewing
- Non-GMO; Non-BPA packaging; No added grain, corn, or wheat and no added artificial colors or flavors; No added poultry by-products
- Made in Minnesota, USA, at a family-owned facility
Cons
- Not recommended for dogs under 5 lbs., or less than 6 months of age. Do not cut treats into pieces.
- Monitor your dog to ensure the treat is chewed sufficiently and keep your dog from swallowing large chunks without chewing, which can lead to digestive upsets
- They have a horrible smell and do nothing to freshen my dog’s breath
We have tried the Amazon Brand – Wag Dental Dog Treats on our dog and found that they do a decent job of cleaning his teeth. The texture of the treats helps reduce plaque and tartar build-up, which is great for maintaining his oral health. Plus, we appreciate that they are made in the USA and free from harmful ingredients.
However, we did notice that the treats have a strong odor, which may not be appealing to some pet owners. Also, they may not be suitable for very small dogs or puppies, as they could pose a choking hazard if not chewed properly.
Overall, if you’re on a tight budget and looking for an affordable way to keep your dog’s teeth clean, the Amazon Brand – Wag Dental Dog Treats is a good option to consider. Just be sure to monitor your dog while they are chewing the treats to ensure they are safe and not overeating.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best teeth cleaning treats for dogs, there are a few key features to consider. We recommend looking for treats that are specifically designed for dental health, as they will have added ingredients to help clean teeth and freshen breath.
It’s important to choose treats that are appropriate for your dog’s size and breed. Smaller dogs may need smaller treats, while larger dogs may require larger treats to effectively clean their teeth. Be sure to check the recommended serving size on the package and adjust accordingly.
Another important factor to consider is the texture of the treat. Dental treats that are too hard may cause damage to your dog’s teeth, while treats that are too soft may not effectively clean teeth. Look for treats with a texture that will help scrub away plaque and tartar without causing harm.
When comparing different dental treats, consider the ingredients. Look for treats with natural ingredients and avoid those with artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Some ingredients to look for include:
- Chlorophyll: helps freshen breath
- Parsley: a natural breath freshener
- Coconut oil: can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup
- Enzymes: can help break down plaque and tartar
Finally, consider your dog’s preferences. Some dogs may prefer a certain flavor or texture, while others may be more interested in the shape or size of the treat. Experiment with different options to find the treat that your dog enjoys and that effectively cleans their teeth.
In summary, when choosing the best teeth cleaning treats for your dog, look for treats that are specifically designed for dental health, appropriate for your dog’s size and breed, have a texture that effectively cleans teeth, contain natural ingredients, and are enjoyable for your dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top vet-recommended dental chews for dogs?
There are several vet-recommended dental chews for dogs, including Greenies Dental Treats, Pedigree Dentastix, and Milk-Bone Brushing Chews. These dental chews have been specially formulated to help reduce tartar buildup, promote healthy teeth and gums, and freshen breath.
Which dental treats are safe for dogs with sensitive stomachs?
If your dog has a sensitive stomach, it is important to choose dental treats that are easy to digest and gentle on the digestive system. Some of the best dental treats for dogs with sensitive stomachs include Zuke’s Z-Bones, Blue Buffalo Dental Bones, and Nylabone Nutri Dent. These treats are made with natural ingredients and are free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
What are the best natural alternatives for canine dental hygiene?
There are several natural alternatives for canine dental hygiene, including raw bones, carrots, and apples. These natural treats help to promote healthy teeth and gums by scraping away plaque and tartar buildup. Additionally, coconut oil and parsley can be added to your dog’s diet to help freshen breath and prevent bad breath.
How can I choose the right size dental chews for my dog?
Choosing the right size dental chews for your dog is important to ensure maximum effectiveness and safety. It is recommended to choose dental chews that are appropriate for your dog’s size and weight. Always read the packaging instructions carefully and consult with your veterinarian if you are unsure which size dental chews are best for your dog.
What products are most effective for preventing tartar buildup in dogs?
There are several products that are effective for preventing tartar buildup in dogs, including dental chews, toothbrushes, and toothpaste. Regular brushing and the use of dental chews can help to remove plaque and tartar buildup, while also promoting healthy teeth and gums. Additionally, water additives and oral sprays can help to freshen breath and prevent bad breath.
Are Greenies Dental Treats suitable for all dogs, and how do they compare to other brands?
Greenies Dental Treats are suitable for most dogs, but it is important to choose the appropriate size and formula for your dog’s individual needs. Greenies Dental Treats are made with natural ingredients and are free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. They are also highly digestible and can help to reduce tartar buildup, freshen breath, and promote healthy teeth and gums. In comparison to other brands, Greenies Dental Treats are a popular and effective choice among pet owners and veterinarians.
