Introduction
Dental care is vital for your dog’s overall health and wellbeing. Poor oral hygiene can lead to plaque, tartar buildup, gum disease, and even impact vital organs over time. Regular care ensures fresh breath, healthy gums, and a longer, happier life.
Brushing remains the gold standard for dog dental care, but chews and dental sticks are an excellent complement. Together, they help prevent dental disease and make oral care a simple part of your dog’s daily routine.
Dog dental chews play an important role in maintaining oral hygiene. Specially designed to reduce plaque and tartar, they also satisfy natural chewing instincts while keeping teeth cleaner between brushings.
Why Choose Dental Chews
Dental chews offer more than just a tasty treat—they actively support your dog’s oral health. Specially textured and designed to encourage chewing, they help clean teeth, freshen breath, and support gum health.
By reducing plaque and tartar buildup, dental chews minimize the risk of periodontal disease, which can otherwise cause pain, tooth loss, and even affect heart and kidney health.
How to Choose the Right Dental Chew
Size, texture, and ingredients matter most when selecting a dental chew. Vets recommend choosing a chew that matches your dog’s breed and bite strength—too small may pose a choking risk, while too hard can damage teeth. Look for natural, easily digestible ingredients without artificial colours or preservatives.
Puppy dental chews differ from adult chews in both texture and formulation. Softer chews are ideal for developing teeth and sensitive gums, while adult chews are firmer to tackle plaque and tartar more effectively.
Avoid rawhide chews, overly hard items like antlers or bones, and products with unnecessary additives. Always supervise chewing to keep your dog safe. Here are handpicked top 7 dental chews for dogs.
Top 7 Best Dental Chews for Dogs in 2025
Today a variety of innovative and vet-recommended options have emerged, making it easier than ever to fight plaque, freshen breath, and keep those canine chompers in top shape. Here are the top 7 best dental chews for dogs in 2025 that combine taste, effectiveness, and vet-approved care.
- Best Overall Dental Stick for Dogs – Greenies Dental Treats
Greenies are one of the most vet-recommended dental chews worldwide, proven to reduce plaque and tartar buildup while freshening breath. Their unique texture gently scrubs teeth down to the gumline.
- Pros: Scientifically proven to reduce plaque by up to 60% and tartar by 50%
- Cons: Premium price compared to other sticks
- Vet Recommendation: Excellent for daily use in small to large dogs
- Best Dental Chew for Puppies – WHIMZEES Puppy Dental Sticks
Designed specifically for puppies aged 3–9 months, WHIMZEES Puppy Dental Sticks are soft, safe, and gentle on developing teeth and gums.
- Pros: 100% natural, softer texture for young teeth
- Cons: Not durable enough for adult dogs
- Vet Recommendation: Start puppies on these to build lifelong dental habits
- Best Long-Lasting Dental Chew – Nylabone DuraChew Dental Chew
For strong chewers, Nylabone provides hours of chewing satisfaction while massaging gums and scraping away plaque.
- Pros: Extremely durable, multiple size options available
- Cons: Not edible; requires supervision to prevent overuse
- Vet Recommendation: Great for powerful chewers prone to boredom and plaque buildup
- Best Grain-Free Dental Stick for Dogs – WHIMZEES Natural Dental Chews
These grain-free, vegetarian chews are ideal for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies, while still effectively reducing plaque.
- Pros: 100% natural, grain-free, and easy to digest
- Cons: May not last long for aggressive chewers
- Vet Recommendation: A safe choice for sensitive tummies without sacrificing oral care
- Best Vet-Recommended Dental Treat for Dogs – Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Dog Chews
Made by veterinary specialists, Virbac chews use an enzyme system to target plaque and tartar more effectively than standard chews.
- Pros: Clinically proven, trusted by vets worldwide
- Cons: Higher cost per chew
- Vet Recommendation: One of the most effective vet-grade dental treats for long-term dental health
- Best Budget-Friendly Dental Chew – Pedigree Dentastix
- Pros: Can reduce tartar buildup by up to 80% when used regularly
- Cons: Contains fillers, not as natural as premium options
- Vet Recommendation: A cost-effective option for multi-dog households
- Best Natural Dental Chew – Yak Cheese Chews (Himalayan Dog Chew)
Made with just three ingredients (yak milk, lime juice, and salt), these chews are long-lasting, protein-rich, and easily digestible.
- Pros: 100% natural, high in protein (up to 65%), lasts 2–3x longer than standard chews
- Cons: Very hard—may not suit small breeds or senior dogs
- Vet Recommendation: Great holistic option for pet parents seeking limited-ingredient, natural dental care
Did you know
- Around 80% of dogs over age 3 show signs of dental disease.
- Dental chews can cut plaque/tartar by 50–80%.
- Pairing brushing with chews is 2x more effective than brushing alone.
Puppy Dental Care Tips
Puppy dental chews should always be softer and smaller to protect developing teeth and sensitive gums. Hard chews can cause damage, while oversized chews may pose a choking risk. Look for chews designed specifically for puppies, usually labelled for ages 3–9 months.
Introduce puppy dental sticks gradually and safely. Start by offering them for short chewing sessions under supervision. Encourage gentle chewing and remove the chew once it becomes small enough to swallow. Always provide fresh water and never leave your puppy unattended with a dental stick.
Conclusion
The best dental chews for dogs in 2025—from vet-recommended brands like Greenies, Virbac, and WHIMZEES to natural options like Yak Cheese—show how the right chew can make daily dental care easier and more effective.
For best results, combine dental chews with regular brushing and routine veterinary check-ups. This dual approach keeps plaque and tartar under control while protecting long-term oral health. Choosing the right chew means healthier teeth, fresher breath, and a happier, more comfortable dog at every stage of life.
FAQs About Dental Chews
Are dental sticks good for dogs?
Yes, dental sticks are good for dogs when chosen correctly. Vet-approved chews help reduce plaque and tartar, freshen breath, and support gum health. They’re not a substitute for brushing but work as an effective supplement. Always pick the right size and supervise chewing to ensure safety.
How often should I give my dog dental treats?
Most vets recommend giving dental treats daily to maintain optimal oral hygiene. Consistency is key—regular chewing helps prevent plaque buildup. Always follow the manufacturer’s feeding guide, adjust based on your dog’s diet, and remember treats should complement balanced meals, not replace them.
Can dental chews replace brushing?
No, dental chews cannot fully replace brushing. While chews reduce plaque and tartar, brushing remains the gold standard for oral care. Vets advise combining both methods for best results. Dental chews are a great addition, especially for dogs who resist brushing, but daily brushing is still ideal.
Signs your dog needs more dental care
Bad breath, yellow or brown tartar buildup, red or swollen gums, and difficulty eating are early signs your dog needs more dental care. Drooling, pawing at the mouth, or tooth loss indicate advanced problems. Regular vet checkups and daily dental routines help prevent serious dental disease.
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