Dog Dental Chews: Are They Really Good for Your Dog's Teeth?

Introduction: Why Dental Chews Matter for Your Dog

Maintaining your dog’s oral hygiene is crucial for preventing plaque buildup, gum disease, and bad breath. While brushing is the gold standard, not every dog tolerates tooth brushing easily. That’s where dog dental chews come in—they offer a simple, tasty, and effective way to clean your dog’s teeth. Designed to reduce tartar and stimulate gums, dental chews for dogs are a practical daily solution for supporting long-term dental health.

What Are Dog Dental Chews and Sticks?

Dog dental chews and sticks are specially designed edible products that help clean your dog’s teeth as they chew. They work through mechanical cleaning, the chewing action scrapes off plaque and tartar and often contain active ingredients that fight bacteria, freshen breath, or strengthen enamel.

• Dental sticks for dogs usually have a ridged or twisted shape to maximize surface contact with teeth and gums.

• Dental chews may be softer, shaped differently, or made from natural materials like rawhide alternatives.

• Dental treats for dogs are usually flavored rewards with added dental benefits, but they may be less effective than sticks or chews for deep cleaning.

Benefits of Dental Chews for Dogs

Dog dental chews offer multiple benefits beyond just oral hygiene:

• Reduces Plaque and Tartar Buildup

The chewing motion helps scrape off plaque before it hardens into tartar, promoting healthier teeth and gums.

• Freshens Breath

Many dental chews contain ingredients like chlorophyll or mint to help reduce odor-causing bacteria and improve breath.

• Keeps Dogs Engaged and Chewing

Dental chews satisfy your dog’s natural chewing instinct while supporting dental health, making them a productive way to pass time.

• Easy Alternative for Dogs That Hate Brushing

For dogs that resist toothbrushes, chews are a stress-free, vet-approved option to support daily dental care.

Best Dental Chews for Dogs: What to Look For

Choosing the best dental chews for dogs ensures both safety and effectiveness. Here’s what to consider:

• Vet-Recommended vs Store-Bought

Vet-recommended dental chews are made for oral health and often backed by clinical testing. While many store-bought options are appealing, not all are effective—so always check for quality.

• VOHC Seal of Approval

Look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal. It means the product meets standards for reducing plaque and tartar—a strong indicator of reliability.

• Ingredients to Avoid

Skip chews that contain sugar, artificial flavors, colors, or chemical preservatives. These can harm your dog’s health and worsen dental problems over time.

• Texture and Size Based on Breed/Age

Choose the chew’s size and hardness based on your dog’s breed, age, and chewing strength. Puppies, seniors, and small breeds need softer, appropriately sized chews, while larger dogs benefit from firmer ones.

Dental Chews for Puppies: Are They Safe?

Yes, puppy dental chews and sticks can be safe and helpful—but only when chosen carefully based on your pup’s age and needs.

• Age Guidelines for Starting Dental Sticks

Most puppy dental sticks are safe from around 8–12 weeks old, once they’ve started teething. Always follow the product’s age recommendation and consult your vet for approval.

• Ingredients Suitable for Puppy Tummies

Choose chews with gentle, easily digestible ingredients—free from artificial colors, added sugars, or harsh preservatives. Look for chews specifically labeled for puppies.

• Teething vs Cleaning Function

For young pups, many chews serve a dual purpose: soothing sore gums during teething and gently cleaning new teeth. Soft-textured chews are ideal during this stage.

Best-Selling Dental Chews & Sticks in the UK

Choosing the best dental chews for dogs in the UK means finding a balance between effectiveness, safety, and taste. Here are a few top-rated options that are highly recommended by vets and loved by pet parents:

Pedigree Dentastix Daily Oral Care

• Price: ~£8–£12 (pack of 28)

• Ingredients: Wheat starch, rice flour, no added sugar

• Features: VOHC-approved, reduces tartar build-up up to 80%

• Best for: Everyday use, all dog sizes (available in small, medium, and large)

• Reviews: 5/5 star (Over 10,000 reviews on Amazon UK)

• Why it's popular: Affordable, widely available, and vet-backed

Virbac VeggieDent FR3SH

• Price: ~£10–£20 (pack of 15)

• Ingredients: Plant-based, gluten-free, no animal protein

• Features: VOHC-approved, reduces bad breath and tartar

• Best for: Dogs with food sensitivities or allergies

• Reviews: 5/5 star(Highly rated by vets and owners)

• Why it's popular: Natural, digestible, and suitable for sensitive dogs

Whimzees Natural Dental Chews

• Price: ~£9–£18 (varied packs)

• Ingredients: Potato starch, glycerin, no artificial colours or preservatives

• Features: Vegetarian, hypoallergenic, long-lasting chew

• Best for: Medium to strong chewers, dogs with dietary restrictions

• Reviews: ⅘ star (Consistently high on pet supply websites)

• Why it's popular: Fun shapes, natural ingredients, effective for cleaning

Lily’s Kitchen Woofbrush Dental Chews

• Price: ~£6–£12 (pack of 7)

• Ingredients: Natural ingredients including parsley, fennel, coconut oil

• Features: Soft texture for deeper gum cleaning, grain-free

• Best for: Dogs over 6 months, mild to moderate chewers

• Reviews: ⅘ star (Praised for quality and palatability)

• Why it's popular: Vet-approved, gentle on tummies, UK-made

How Often Should You Give Dental Chews?

Dental chews can be given daily or a few times a week, depending on your dog’s size, health, and your vet’s recommendation. Many vet-recommended dental chews are designed for daily use to effectively reduce plaque and tartar buildup.

However, it’s important to:

• Balance with your dog’s regular meals—dental chews contain calories, so adjust food portions if needed to avoid weight gain.

• Read packaging instructions and choose the right chew size and frequency based on your dog’s breed and age.

• Remember that dental chews are not a substitute for brushing, but they are a powerful support tool when used alongside brushing, water additives, or professional cleanings.

Alternatives & Complementary Dental Products

While dental chews are effective, combining them with other oral care products provides more complete protection for your dog’s teeth and gums:

• Water Additives, Dental Toys, and Oral Gels
• Water additives mix into your dog’s drinking water to help reduce bacteria and freshen breath.

• Dental toys are textured to scrape teeth and massage gums while your dog chews.

• Oral gels contain enzymes or antibacterial agents that support gum health and reduce plaque buildup.

• Prescription Dental Diets

Some vet-prescribed kibble, like Hill’s t/d or Royal Canin Dental, are specially designed with larger, fibrous pieces that mechanically clean teeth as your dog chews.

• Vet-Cleaning Schedules

Schedule professional dental cleanings once a year or as advised by your vet. These cleanings remove deep tartar and treat hidden gum issues that home care can’t reach.

Conclusion

Dental chews offer a convenient and enjoyable way to support your dog’s oral health, especially when brushing isn’t always possible. To ensure safety and effectiveness, always choose vet-approved or VOHC-certified options that match your dog’s size, age, and chewing habits. For the best long-term results, combine dental chews with regular brushing, professional cleanings, and routine vet check-ups—a complete approach that keeps your dog’s teeth clean, gums healthy, and breath fresh.

FAQs

Can I give dental chews to senior dogs?

Yes, senior dogs can have dental chews, but you should choose softer, easy-to-chew options to avoid stressing aging teeth or gums. Look for chews specifically labeled for seniors or sensitive mouths, and always supervise to ensure they’re chewing safely and not struggling with harder textures.

Are rawhide alternatives better?

Rawhide alternatives are often safer and more digestible, especially for dogs prone to stomach issues or choking. Options made from sweet potato, rice, or collagen are easier to break down and less likely to splinter. Always choose high-quality, vet-recommended products that are free from harmful additives and preservatives.

What if my dog swallows big pieces?

If your dog swallows large chunks of a dental chew, monitor closely for signs of choking, vomiting, or digestive distress. Large, undigested pieces can cause blockages. Choose appropriately sized chews, supervise chewing sessions, and avoid products that are too hard or easily break into big pieces.

Do grain-free dental sticks exist?

Yes, many grain-free dental sticks are available for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs. Brands like Whimzees and Lily’s Kitchen offer natural, grain-free options made with limited ingredients. Always check the label and consult your vet to ensure the product suits your dog’s dietary needs.