The importance of dental dog treats for oral hygiene

Dental dog treats are important for keeping your dog's teeth and gums healthy. They help clean teeth by reducing plaque build-up through chewing. Some dental treats can reduce plaque by almost 70%. Dental dog treats also help lessen bad breath caused by bacteria in the mouth. Dental chews work by using both mechanical action and special formulas. Chewing helps remove plaque and tartar from the dog's teeth. Some dental chews also have a chemical anti-plaque agent that creates a barrier on the teeth. This barrier stops bacteria from sticking to the teeth, which reduces plaque and tartar build-up. The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) checks pet products to see if they meet standards for reducing plaque or tartar. Approved foods, treats, and chews must reduce plaque or tartar by at least 10% to get the VOHC seal of approval. If a chemical anti-plaque agent is used, it needs to reduce plaque or tartar by at least 20%. This seal shows that dental dog treats work well.

How often to give dental chews and can they replace regular teeth cleaning?

Dental chews are helpful for your dog's oral care routine, but they should not replace regular teeth cleaning methods. It is usually best to give dental chews to your dog once a day for the most benefit. However, do not give dental chews to puppies under six months old because their adult teeth are not fully grown yet. Dental chews work by scraping off bacteria and leftover food from your dog's teeth. Some chews may also have chemical anti-plaque agents that create a barrier on the teeth. While dental chews can help remove some plaque and improve your dog's oral health, they should not replace regular tooth brushing and professional dental cleanings. When choosing dental chews for your dog, look for products with a registered certification mark from the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC). This means the dental chew has met standards and has been proven to reduce tartar and plaque on your dog's teeth by 15-20%. Remember, dental chews are just one part of keeping your dog's mouth healthy. You should also brush their teeth and take them for dental checkups at the vet.

What to consider when choosing dental chews for dogs

When buying dental chews, think about size, hardness, and ingredients to make the best choice for your pet's dental health. Size is important when picking dental chews. Dog dental chews come in different sizes for different breeds and mouth sizes. The right size chew for your pet helps avoid stomach problems caused by swallowing large pieces or eating too much. The right-sized dental chew should clean teeth well without causing jaw strain or digestion issues. Hardness is another thing to think about. Dental chews come in different hardness levels, so choose one that fits your dog's age, chewing habits, and dental health. Puppies or dogs with sensitive gums might need softer treats, while dogs who like to chew might want a tougher treat. The dental chew you choose should make your pet happy, clean their teeth, and meet their chewing needs. Lastly, look at the ingredients of the dental chews you are thinking about. Choose products made from high-quality, natural ingredients that help keep teeth healthy. Avoid chews with artificial additives or preservatives that could hurt your pet. Some dental chews might also have helpful ingredients like enzymes or essential oils that help reduce plaque and tartar build-up, making overall oral hygiene better.

Dental chews for puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with special diets

Yes, there are dental chews made just for puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with certain diets. These dental chews help with things like reducing plaque and tartar build-up, making breath smell better, and keeping overall oral health good. For puppies, companies like Greenies make dental chews for young dogs. They are softer and easier for puppies with growing teeth and jaws to chew. Senior dogs might need dental chews that are softer and easier to chew because of their older teeth and possible dental problems. There are dental chews made to be gentle on senior dogs' teeth while still helping keep their mouths healthy. For dogs with special diets or sensitivities, there are dental chews made from plant-based ingredients, grain-free options, or limited ingredient formulas. One example is C.E.T. VeggieDent Tartar Control Dog Chews, which are plant-based and easy to digest. It is important to choose the right dental chew based on your dog's size, likes, and needs. Always ask your veterinarian for help picking the best dental chew for your dog's individual needs. Also, look for products that have the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) Seal of Approval to make sure they meet standards for reducing plaque or tartar.

Dental Treats in U.S.A

10 Best Dental Dog Treats

Dental dog treats play a crucial role in maintaining your pet's oral health by reducing plaque build-up and bad breath. Choose the right size, hardness, and ingredients for your dog's needs. Look for products with the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) Seal of Approval to ensure effectiveness.

Why You Should Trust Us

Handpicked dental treats. Our expert researchers, data analysts, and editors have put more than 17 hours of effort into researching the best available dental dog treats in the United States. We had researched 232 dental treats sold in 5 countries before handpicking the 10 best dental dog treats.

Hours Researched: 17+
Products Researched: 232
Products Handpicked: 10
Acceptance Rate: 4.3%

Dental treats by country:

How to choose The Best dental treat:

When you're on the hunt for dental treats for your dog, it's important to keep a few key features in mind. These will help ensure that the treats you choose effectively promote your pet's oral health. Look for treats specifically designed to clean your dog's teeth by removing plaque and tartar buildup. The texture of these treats should encourage chewing, which helps clean both teeth and gums.

Make sure the dental treats are made from high-quality, natural ingredients. This means they should not contain any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Instead, they should be easily digestible and safe for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities. By focusing on ingredient quality, you can feel confident that the treat will not only clean your dog's teeth but also contribute to their overall health.

Consider the size and shape of the dental treat as well as whether it is recommended by veterinarians. The treat should be appropriately sized for your dog's breed and mouth to ensure effective cleaning and prevent choking hazards. Some dental treats come in various shapes and sizes that can reach different areas of your dog's mouth more effectively. Choosing a veterinarian-recommended product gives you peace of mind knowing that it has been proven effective in preventing and reducing dental problems in dogs. By keeping these essential features in mind when shopping for dental dog treats, you can help maintain your furry friend's oral hygiene while also giving them a tasty treat they'll enjoy.

in this article:

product ratings and reviews:

best overall — top 3 dental dog treats
top 10 list — highest rated dental dog treats

common questions about dental treats:

The Importance of Dental Dog Treats for Oral Hygiene
How Often to Give Dental Chews and Can They Replace Regular Teeth Cleaning?
What to Consider When Choosing Dental Chews for Dogs
Dental Chews for Puppies, Senior Dogs, or Dogs with Special Diets

Best Dental Dog Treats

#1 — Checkups Dental Dog Treats
Checkups Dental Dog Treats
product rating:
- our rating
  98 out of 100
Checkups dental dog treats are an effective solution for maintaining your dog's dental health. These wheat gluten-free treats are designed for dogs weighing 20 pounds or more and come in a pack of 24. Checkups can reduce plaque by 25% and tartar by 62%, leading to cleaner teeth and fresher breath.
Many dogs enjoy the taste of Checkups, making it easy to care for their dental well-being. In fact, some dogs get excited when they hear phrases related to brushing their teeth, knowing they will receive one of these treats. Veterinarians often recommend Checkups to keep dogs' teeth white and gums healthy. One veterinarian even asked about a dachshund's excellent dental condition without any professional work, with the owner attributing it to Checkups.
It is important to note that not all dogs may tolerate these chews well, especially those with sensitive stomachs. Observe your dog's reaction when trying new treats and consult your veterinarian if any digestive issues arise. When purchasing Checkups, remember to compare prices among retailers, as costs can vary significantly.
read more
Where to buy in U.S.A:
www.amazon.com
Price range:
$25 - $30USD
What we like:
Tasty for dogs
Reduces plaque and tartar
Wheat gluten-free
Freshens breath
What could be better:
Price varies among retailers
Not for all dogs
read more features and photos
#2 — Pedigree Dentastix Dental Dog Treats
Pedigree Dentastix Dental Dog Treats
product rating:
- our rating
  98 out of 100
Dentastix dental treats for dogs are an enjoyable and effective way to maintain your pet's oral health. These treats come in three flavors: Original, Beef, and Fresh. The X-shape design and chewy texture help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, promoting better oral health for your dog.
Giving your dog one Dentastix treat daily can provide the best results for their oral hygiene. These dental treat sticks are designed specifically for adult large breed dogs weighing over 30 lbs. Many pet owners like using these treats as an alternative to brushing their dogs' teeth, which some pets may find uncomfortable. Using Dentastix regularly can lead to improvements in your dog's dental health and help prevent future issues.
For medium-sized dogs weighing around 25-30 pounds, it is practical to buy the large-sized Dentastix and cut them into smaller pieces. This method can save money since one large treat is equal to about one and a half medium-sized treats. By giving your pet Dentastix daily, you are not only offering them a tasty snack but also helping their overall oral health and well-being.
read more
Where to buy in U.S.A:
www.amazon.com
Price range:
$25 - $30USD
What we like:
Variety of flavors
X-shape design for better cleaning
Chewy texture helps clean teeth
Daily oral hygiene support
What could be better:
Possible allergens
Not for all dog sizes
read more features and photos
#3 — Greenies Original Dental Dog Treats
Greenies Original Dental Dog Treats
product rating:
- our rating
  97 out of 100
Greenies Original Dental Treats are an effective way to maintain your dog's oral health and freshen their breath. Giving your dog one treat per day helps fight plaque and tartar buildup on their teeth. The chewy texture is enjoyable for your dog and cleans down to the gumline. These dental chews have natural ingredients that are safe and easy to digest, along with essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients for overall health.
Many veterinarians recommend Greenies for at-home oral care because of their approval by the Veterinary Oral Health Counciland positive impact on dogs' dental health. Pet owners often see improvements in their dogs' teeth cleanliness after using Greenies Dental Treats for just one week. Although these treats may be more expensive than other options, investing in them can lead to better dental health for your beloved pet. By giving your dog a tasty and helpful Greenies Dental Treat daily, both you and your pet will enjoy the results.
read more
Where to buy in U.S.A:
www.chewy.com
www.amazon.com
www.target.com
www.walmart.com
www.petsmart.com
www.hollywoodfeed.com
www.tractorsupply.com
Price range:
$40 - $45USD
What we like:
Natural ingredients
Oral health maintenance
Chewy texture
Freshens breath
What could be better:
Price
Allergy concerns
read more features and photos

10 Highest Rated Dental Treats

Checkups Dental Dog Treats
Dogs enjoy the taste of Checkups dental treats, encouraging thorough chewing for optimal oral hygiene.
- our rating
  98 out of 100
- price range:
  $25 - 30USD
Pedigree Dentastix Dental Dog Treats
Dentastix offers three flavors - Original, Beef, and Fresh - catering to diverse taste preferences and ensuring pet owner satisfaction.
- our rating
  98 out of 100
- price range:
  $25 - 30USD
Greenies Original Dental Dog Treats
Greenies Dental Treats contain safe, digestible natural ingredients that provide essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for a dog's overall well-being.
- our rating
  97 out of 100
- price range:
  $40 - 45USD
Milk-Bone Large Daily Dental Dog Treats, 25 Count
These chews support healthy gums and freshen breath by stimulating saliva production to wash away bacteria.
- our rating
  96 out of 100
- price range:
  $15 - 20USD
Purina DentaLife Dental Dog Chews
Eight distinct ridges clean down to the gumline and reach difficult-to-access teeth, promoting better dental hygiene.
- our rating
  95 out of 100
- price range:
  $15 - 20USD
Virbac VeggieDent FR3SH Dental Chews for Dogs
CET VEGGIEDENT FR3SH Chews contain a prebiotic, promoting proper digestion and supporting balanced gut flora.
- our rating
  93 out of 100
- price range:
  $30 - 36USD
Blue Buffalo Dental Chew Treats for Medium Dogs
BLUE Dental Bones contain high-quality, natural ingredients, ensuring a healthy and gentle treat for dogs.
- our rating
  92 out of 100
- price range:
  $25 - 30USD
Minties VetIQ Dental Chews for Medium-Large Dogs
Minties VetIQ Dog Dental Bone Treats have a special design that promotes effective plaque and tartar removal.
- our rating
  91 out of 100
- price range:
  $20 - 24USD
Whimzees Variety Pack Dental Dog Treats
The chews have functional grooves and a unique design, allowing thorough cleaning and easy gripping for dogs.
- our rating
  91 out of 100
- price range:
  $25 - 30USD
Oravet Dental Hygiene Chews Dogs
These dental chews are both palatable and easy to digest, making them an ideal addition to a dog's daily routine.
- our rating
  90 out of 100
- price range:
  $35 - 42USD

Other recommended dog treats:

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Questions About Dental Treats

The Importance of Dental Dog Treats for Oral Hygiene
Dental dog treats are important for keeping your dog's teeth and gums healthy. They help clean teeth by reducing plaque build-up through chewing. Some dental treats can reduce plaque by almost 70%. Dental dog treats also help lessen bad breath caused by bacteria in the mouth.
Dental chews work by using both mechanical action and special formulas. Chewing helps remove plaque and tartar from the dog's teeth. Some dental chews also have a chemical anti-plaque agent that creates a barrier on the teeth. This barrier stops bacteria from sticking to the teeth, which reduces plaque and tartar build-up.
The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) checks pet products to see if they meet standards for reducing plaque or tartar. Approved foods, treats, and chews must reduce plaque or tartar by at least 10% to get the VOHC seal of approval. If a chemical anti-plaque agent is used, it needs to reduce plaque or tartar by at least 20%. This seal shows that dental dog treats work well.
How Often to Give Dental Chews and Can They Replace Regular Teeth Cleaning?
Dental chews are helpful for your dog's oral care routine, but they should not replace regular teeth cleaning methods. It is usually best to give dental chews to your dog once a day for the most benefit. However, do not give dental chews to puppies under six months old because their adult teeth are not fully grown yet.
Dental chews work by scraping off bacteria and leftover food from your dog's teeth. Some chews may also have chemical anti-plaque agents that create a barrier on the teeth. While dental chews can help remove some plaque and improve your dog's oral health, they should not replace regular tooth brushing and professional dental cleanings.
When choosing dental chews for your dog, look for products with a registered certification mark from the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC). This means the dental chew has met standards and has been proven to reduce tartar and plaque on your dog's teeth by 15-20%. Remember, dental chews are just one part of keeping your dog's mouth healthy. You should also brush their teeth and take them for dental checkups at the vet.
What to Consider When Choosing Dental Chews for Dogs
When buying dental chews, think about size, hardness, and ingredients to make the best choice for your pet's dental health.
Size is important when picking dental chews. Dog dental chews come in different sizes for different breeds and mouth sizes. The right size chew for your pet helps avoid stomach problems caused by swallowing large pieces or eating too much. The right-sized dental chew should clean teeth well without causing jaw strain or digestion issues.
Hardness is another thing to think about. Dental chews come in different hardness levels, so choose one that fits your dog's age, chewing habits, and dental health. Puppies or dogs with sensitive gums might need softer treats, while dogs who like to chew might want a tougher treat. The dental chew you choose should make your pet happy, clean their teeth, and meet their chewing needs.
Lastly, look at the ingredients of the dental chews you are thinking about. Choose products made from high-quality, natural ingredients that help keep teeth healthy. Avoid chews with artificial additives or preservatives that could hurt your pet. Some dental chews might also have helpful ingredients like enzymes or essential oils that help reduce plaque and tartar build-up, making overall oral hygiene better.
Dental Chews for Puppies, Senior Dogs, or Dogs with Special Diets
Yes, there are dental chews made just for puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with certain diets. These dental chews help with things like reducing plaque and tartar build-up, making breath smell better, and keeping overall oral health good.
For puppies, companies like Greenies make dental chews for young dogs. They are softer and easier for puppies with growing teeth and jaws to chew.
Senior dogs might need dental chews that are softer and easier to chew because of their older teeth and possible dental problems. There are dental chews made to be gentle on senior dogs' teeth while still helping keep their mouths healthy.
For dogs with special diets or sensitivities, there are dental chews made from plant-based ingredients, grain-free options, or limited ingredient formulas. One example is C.E.T. VeggieDent Tartar Control Dog Chews, which are plant-based and easy to digest.
It is important to choose the right dental chew based on your dog's size, likes, and needs. Always ask your veterinarian for help picking the best dental chew for your dog's individual needs. Also, look for products that have the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) Seal of Approval to make sure they meet standards for reducing plaque or tartar.