9 Best Dental Chews for Dogs: Top Picks for Clean Teeth and Fresh Breath

Your dog’s dental health is just as important as your own. Regular brushing can be a challenge, but dental chews offer a tasty and effective solution. They not only help clean your dog’s teeth but also keep their breath fresh and gums healthy.

In this article, you’ll discover the 9 best dental chews for dogs that combine flavor, nutrition, and dental care. Whether your furry friend is a picky eater or has specific dietary needs, there’s a perfect option out there. Keep reading to find the ideal dental chew that will make both you and your pup smile.

Understanding Dental Chews: What Are They?

Dental chews are specially designed treats that help maintain your dog’s oral health. They’re a convenient and tasty way to clean your dog’s teeth and gums without brushing.

Composition of Dental Chews

Dental chews consist of ingredients that are both safe and beneficial for your dog. Common ingredients include meat, vegetables, and grains, often fortified with vitamins and minerals. These components ensure the chews are nutritious. Some chews also include enzymes or antibacterial properties to enhance their dental benefits. It’s important to check the ingredient list to avoid any allergens specific to your dog’s diet.

How Dental Chews Function

Dental chews work by allowing your dog to chew on textured surfaces that help scrape away plaque and tartar. The mechanical chewing action helps clean teeth. Many chews have ridges and nubs designed to reach different areas of the mouth. Enzymes or antibacterial agents in some chews can reduce bacteria buildup, further aiding in oral hygiene. Regular use can help freshen breath and prevent periodontal disease.

Evaluating Dental Chew Benefits

When choosing dental chews for your dog, it’s crucial to consider how they impact dental health. Let’s break down the key benefits.

Plaque and Tartar Control

Effective dental chews reduce plaque and tartar buildup. As your dog chews, the textured surfaces scrape away these harmful substances. This mechanical action is essential for oral hygiene. Look for chews with ridges and nubs; they reach different areas of your dog’s mouth. Ingredients like enzymes can further break down plaque. Regular use ensures a cleaner, healthier mouth, lowering the risk of periodontal disease.

Breath Freshening

Dental chews significantly improve breath freshness. Many chews contain chlorophyll, parsley, or other natural breath-freshening agents. These ingredients neutralize bad odors as your dog chews. Antibacterial properties in some chews reduce bacteria responsible for foul breath. Consistent use keeps your dog’s breath pleasant and their mouth healthier.

Considerations Before Choosing Dental Chews

Just like choosing the right dog food, picking the best dental chews for your furry friend requires careful thought. Here are key points to consider.

Factors to Consider Based on Dog Size and Age

Selecting appropriate dental chews based on your dog’s size and age is crucial. Small breeds need smaller chews that are easy to gnaw on and won’t pose a choking hazard. Large breeds require more substantial chews that provide the right amount of resistance to clean their teeth effectively.

Age is equally important. Puppies have softer gums and teeth, so chews should be gentle with a bit of give. Older dogs might need softer options too if they have dental issues. Ensure the chews are age-appropriate to maintain safety and efficacy.

Recognizing Safe Ingredients in Dental Chews

It’s essential to scrutinize the ingredients in dental chews. Avoid chews with artificial preservatives and dyes; they can be harmful and don’t add any nutritional value. Look for natural ingredients that promote oral health, like enzymes, chlorophyll, and parsley. These not only help clean teeth but also freshen your dog’s breath.

Ensuring the chews don’t contain harmful substances like xylitol or rawhide is vital. Xylitol is toxic to dogs, and rawhide can cause digestive issues. Opt for chews with recognizable, high-quality ingredients to keep your pup safe and healthy.

Review of the 9 Best Dental Chews for Dogs

Here’s a closer look at the top dental chews to help keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy.

1. Greenies Dental Dog Treats

Packed with natural ingredients, Greenies are a popular choice among pet owners. These chews feature a unique texture that helps clean down to the gumline. They’re available in various sizes, ensuring a perfect fit for all breeds.

2. OraVet Dental Hygiene Chews

Designed to reduce plaque and tartar, OraVet offers dental chews with a special ingredient, delmopinol, that creates a protective barrier against bacteria. These chews come in multiple sizes and are highly recommended by veterinarians.

3. Pedigree Dentastix

Known for their distinctive X-shape, Pedigree Dentastix are effective in reaching hard-to-clean areas in your dog’s mouth. Available in several flavors, these chews are suitable for daily use and cater to different dog sizes.

4. Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Oral Hygiene Chews

Virbac C.E.T. chews include enzymes that help break down plaque and prevent tartar buildup. They’re designed for dogs of all sizes and flavors such as beef and poultry make them a favorite among pets.

5. Blue Buffalo Dental Bones

Blue Buffalo Dental Bones boast natural ingredients like parsley and alfalfa for fresh breath. These bones have a textured surface that aids in cleaning teeth, while the grain-free formula is suitable for dogs with dietary sensitivities.

6. Whimzees Natural Dog Dental Chews

Whimzees are made from all-natural ingredients, ensuring no artificial additives. Their unique shapes, such as hedgehogs and alligators, provide an engaging chewing experience while effectively cleaning teeth.

7. Nylabone Advanced Oral Care

Nylabone’s chews feature Denta-C which is scientifically formulated to reduce plaque. These chews are durable, making them perfect for aggressive chewers and come in flavors like bacon and chicken.

8. Milk-Bone Brushing Chews

Milk-Bone Brushing Chews act like a toothbrush, thanks to their creative design. They have a 12 essential vitamin and mineral blend, supporting overall health while maintaining dental hygiene.

Top Pick #1: Greenies Original Regular Size

Greenies Original Regular Size dental chews are highly recommended for keeping your dog’s teeth clean and healthy. They feature a unique texture and formulation that effectively reduces plaque and tartar buildup.

Key Features

• Unique Texture: Designed to be chewy, helping to clean down to the gumline.
• Natural Ingredients: Made with natural, easy-to-digest ingredients.
• Veterinary Approved: Accepted by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC).
• Freshens Breath: Contains added ingredients to freshen your dog’s breath.
• Nutritionally Complete: Provides additional vitamins and minerals for overall health.

• Pros:
• Highly Effective: Proven to reduce plaque and tartar.
• Palatable: Loved by most dogs due to the tasty formula.
• Sizes: Available in various sizes to fit different breeds.
• Digestible: Made with easily digestible ingredients.
• Cons:
• Pricey: More expensive than some other dental chews.
• Caloric Content: Could contribute to weight gain if overfed.
• Ingredient Sensitivities: May not be suitable for dogs with specific allergies.

Top Pick #2: Pedigree Dentastix Large Dog Treats

Pedigree Dentastix Large Dog Treats are a popular choice among dog owners for their effectiveness and affordability. With a unique X-shape design, they offer multiple benefits for your dog’s dental health.

Key Features

1. Unique X-Shape Design: The X-shape design helps clean teeth down to the gumline, removing plaque and tartar effectively.
2. Triple Action Formula: Reduces plaque, clears breath, and freshens breath all at once, ensuring comprehensive oral care.
3. Large Dog Specific: Sized specifically for larger breeds, ensuring appropriate chew size and duration for effective dental benefits.
4. Daily Protection Plan: Recommended for daily use, forming part of a consistent oral hygiene routine.
5. Affordable: Provides a cost-effective dental care solution compared to some other brands.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Effective Clean: The unique design and texture help in scrubbing off plaque and tartar effectively.
2. Affordability: Priced reasonably compared to other dental chews, making it accessible for regular use.
3. Daily Use: Safe for everyday consumption, ensuring continuous dental health benefits.
4. Flavor Varieties: Available in multiple flavors to cater to different dog preferences.

Cons:

1. Ingredient Sensitivities: Some dogs might have sensitivities or allergies to ingredients used in these treats.
2. Caloric Content: Higher in calories, which might be a concern for dogs on a weight management plan.
3. Size Limitation: Specifically designed for large dogs, so small dog owners need a different product size.

By incorporating Pedigree Dentastix Large Dog Treats into your dog’s routine, you can ensure they receive effective, consistent dental care tailored to their size and preferences.

Top Pick #3: Virbac CET Enzymatic Oral Hygiene Chews

For effective oral health care for your dog, Virbac CET Enzymatic Oral Hygiene Chews are an excellent choice. These chews use enzymes to boost dental hygiene.

Key Full Features

• Enzymatic Action: Contains dual-enzyme systems to enhance natural defenses against plaque formation.
• Texture: Features a chewy texture that helps scrub away plaque while your dog chews, promoting cleaner teeth.
• Highly Palatable: Made from beefhide, ensuring your dog loves the taste while benefiting from the chew’s dental properties.
• Veterinarian Recommended: Endorsed by veterinarians for their effectiveness in maintaining oral hygiene.
• Sizes Available: Comes in various sizes, making it easy to find the right fit for small, medium, or large dogs.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Effective Plaque Control: Enzymatic formula actively reduces plaque and tartar.
• Great Taste: High palatability ensures your dog eagerly participates in their oral care.
• Veterinarian Approved: Trusted and recommended by vets for dental health.
• Variety of Sizes: Offers flexibility for different dog breeds and sizes.

• Higher Cost: Pricier than some other dental chews on the market.
• Potential Allergens: Made with beefhide, which may not suit dogs with beef allergies.
• Supervised Chewing Required: Should be monitored to avoid choking hazards.

Top Pick #4: Blue Buffalo Dental Bones Natural Adult Dental Chew

Blue Buffalo Dental Bones stand out due to their premium quality and natural ingredients, making them a top choice for dog owners.

Key Features

• Natural Ingredients: These dental chews are made with wholesome, natural ingredients without artificial preservatives or colors.
• Grain-Free: Ideal for dogs with grain sensitivities, ensuring better digestion and overall health.
• Unique Shape: The unique shape of these chews promotes mechanical cleaning action, effectively reducing plaque and tartar buildup.
• Irresistible Flavor: Dogs love the taste, which encourages regular chewing.

Pros and Cons

• No Artificial Additives: Free from artificial preservatives and colors ensures a healthier option.
• Diet-Friendly: Grain-free formula caters to dogs with food sensitivities.
• Effective Cleaning: Unique shape aids in cleaning teeth and reducing plaque.
• Great Taste: Enjoyed by most dogs, promoting consistent use.

• Higher Price: More expensive compared to some other dental chews on the market.
• Chew Size: Larger size may not be suitable for very small dogs.
• Possible Allergens: Contains chicken, which may not be suitable for dogs with specific allergies.

Top Pick #5: Milk-Bone Fresh Breath Brushing Chews

Milk-Bone Fresh Breath Brushing Chews are a fantastic choice for keeping your dog’s breath fresh and their teeth clean.

Key Features

• Unique Ridge Design: Features ridges and nubs to clean hard-to-reach teeth effectively.
• Twist Shape: Uses a twisted shape to maximize contact with all teeth for thorough cleaning.
• Fresh Breath Formula: Includes ingredients specifically designed to freshen breath.
• Veterinarian Recommended: Endorsed by vets for daily use.
• Dual Action: Works to clean teeth and gums while freshening breath.

• Pros:
• Effective Cleaning: Ridges and twist shape help remove plaque and tartar effectively.
• Freshens Breath: Special formulation targets bad breath.
• Veterinarian Approved: Vets recommend these chews for daily use.
• Affordable: More budget-friendly compared to premium options.
• Cons:
• Potential Allergens: Contains wheat and chicken, which might be allergens for some dogs.
• Size Matters: Larger size may not be suitable for very small dogs.

Top Pick #6: OraVet Dental Hygiene Chews for Dogs

OraVet Dental Hygiene Chews are a top choice for keeping your dog’s teeth clean and healthy. These chews are designed to reduce plaque and tartar buildup while freshening breath.

Key Features

OraVet chews contain delmopinol, an ingredient proven to form a protective barrier on teeth. This barrier helps prevent bacterial attachment, reducing plaque and tartar formation. They’re available in various sizes to suit different breeds. These soft chews are formulated to be gentle on your dog’s teeth while still being effective.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Efficiently reduces plaque and tartar buildup.
2. Contains delmopinol, aiding in long-term oral health.
3. Soft texture, suitable for dogs with sensitive teeth.
4. Freshens breath effectively.

1. Higher price point compared to some other dental chews.
2. Some dogs may not prefer the taste.
3. May cause digestive upset in dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Choosing OraVet Dental Hygiene Chews can significantly improve and maintain your dog’s oral hygiene, making it a worthwhile investment.

Top Pick #7: Purina DentaLife Daily Oral Care Dog Treats

Purina DentaLife Daily Oral Care Dog Treats are known for their effective design and palatable flavor.

Key Features

• Innovative Design: These treats feature an eight-ridge design that helps clean hard-to-reach teeth.
• Targeted Action: Formulated to reduce tartar buildup and freshen breath.
• Scientifically Proven: Backed by Purina’s rigorous research, ensuring quality and efficacy.
• Variety of Sizes: Available for small, medium, and large dogs, catering to different breeds.
• Natural Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients and without artificial flavors or colors.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

• Effective Cleaning: The unique texture targets hard-to-reach teeth.
• Versatile Use: Suitable for daily oral care routines for most dogs.
• High Palatability: Loved by many dogs, making it easy to incorporate into their diets.
• Affordable: Offers good value for the price compared to some other dental treats.
• Potential Allergies: Some dogs might be sensitive to certain ingredients.
• Size Specificity: Incorrect size selection may reduce effectiveness or pose choking risks.

Top Pick #8: Nylabone Nutri Dent

Nylabone Nutri Dent stands out for its ability to clean teeth and freshen breath, combining functionality with flavor.

Key Features

Nylabone Nutri Dent chews are designed to reduce plaque and tartar buildup while freshening your dog’s breath. They incorporate 360-degree scrubbing nubs and are made with natural ingredients. These chews come in various sizes, making them suitable for dogs of all breeds and ages. They are both vet-recommended and produced in the USA, adhering to high safety and quality standards.

Pros and Cons

1. Effective Cleaning: 360-degree scrubbing nubs ensure thorough cleaning.
2. Natural Ingredients: Made with safe, natural components.
3. Size Variety: Available in multiple sizes for different dogs.
4. Vet-Recommended: Backed by veterinarians for dental health.
5. Made in the USA: Adheres to rigorous safety and quality guidelines.

1. Potential Allergens: Some dogs may have allergies to specific ingredients.
2. Cost: Generally more expensive compared to some other dental chews.
3. Texture: Harder texture may not suit dogs with sensitive gums or teeth.

Top Pick #9: Whimzees Natural Grain Free Dental Dog Treats

Whimzees Natural Grain Free Dental Dog Treats stand out for their commitment to natural ingredients and effective teeth-cleaning design.

Key Features

Whimzees Dental Dog Treats offer several key features that make them a top pick. They’re grain-free, making them suitable for dogs with allergies. The treats use all-natural ingredients, avoiding artificial additives and chemicals. Their unique shapes and textures help reduce plaque and tartar as your dog chews. Whimzees are also low in fat and come in various sizes to accommodate different breeds. The treats even support optimal digestion by being rich in fiber.

Pros and Cons

• Grain-free, ideal for dogs with grain sensitivities
• Made from all-natural ingredients, promoting a healthier diet
• Unique shapes and textures effectively reduce plaque and tartar
• Low in fat, supporting weight management
• Available in different sizes, catering to various breeds and jaw sizes
• Rich in fiber, aiding digestion

• Might be more expensive compared to other brands
• Some dogs may not find them as palatable due to lack of artificial flavors
• Harder texture might not be suitable for dogs with dental issues or sensitive teeth

Choosing the Right Dental Chew for Your Dog

Selecting the perfect dental chew for your dog involves a few key considerations. Understanding your pet’s specific needs is essential for maintaining their oral health effectively.

Size and Chew Strength Considerations

Match the chew size to your dog’s breed and age. Smaller breeds benefit from appropriately sized chews that fit comfortably in their mouths, while larger breeds require bigger chews to avoid choking hazards. Puppies need softer chews to protect their developing teeth, whereas adult dogs can handle firmer options.

Assess the chew strength based on your dog’s chewing habits. Aggressive chewers need durable chews to prevent rapid destruction, while moderate chewers can enjoy standard dental chews. For seniors or dogs with dental issues, opt for gentler chews to avoid damaging sensitive teeth.

Monitoring Your Dog’s Reaction to New Dental Chews

Observe your dog closely when introducing a new dental chew. Look for signs of allergy like itching, swelling, or gastrointestinal upset. If adverse reactions occur, discontinue use immediately and consult your vet.

Evaluate the chew’s effectiveness in cleaning your dog’s teeth. Check for reduced plaque and tartar buildup, fresher breath, and general oral health improvement. If the chew meets these criteria, it’s a suitable choice for your pet.

Monitor chewing behavior to ensure safety. Ensure your dog doesn’t swallow large pieces that could cause choking or digestive blockages. Supervised chewing promotes a safer and more beneficial dental care routine.

Conclusion

Choosing the right dental chew for your dog is crucial for maintaining their oral health. With options like Greenies and Whimzees Natural Grain Free Dental Dog Treats, you can find something that suits your dog’s needs and preferences. Always consider factors like size, chew strength, and your dog’s reaction to new products. Remember to supervise your dog while they enjoy their dental chews to ensure a safe and effective dental care routine. By being attentive to these aspects, you’ll help keep your dog’s teeth clean and their breath fresh.