Are you on the hunt for the best dog dental chews for plaque? Then you’ll be pleased you stopped by.
As a fellow dog owner who appreciates the need to control, manage and remove plaque from your dogs teeth – I’ve been in the market a few times trying to work out what dental chews reign supreme.
So today, I would love to share with you my favorite and personal recommendations to break down that plaque on your dogs teeth for good!
Best Dog Dental Chews for Plaque
The best dog dental chews for plaque are:
- ProDen PlaqueOff System Dental Care Bones
- Petlab Dental Stick Chews
- Virbac Veggiedent FR3SH Tartar Control Chews
- Minties Dental Chews
- Greenies Original Dental Chews
- Oravet Dental Chews
ProDen PlaqueOff System Dental Care Bones
Pros
- Effectiveness: The natural ingredients, including kelp, are clinically tested to promote oral hygiene by softening and removing plaque.
- Breath Freshening: Helps in managing foul breath by maintaining clean teeth.
- Low Maintenance: Easy to use as a daily treat, without the stress of tooth brushing.
- Quality Ingredients: Made with 100% natural kelp, gluten-free and grain-free, and rich in Omega 3 and 6.
Cons
- Packaging: The zipper seal on the bag can break, causing inconvenience in storage.
Petlab Dental Stick Chews
Pros
- Effective Plaque Removal: The abrasive texture of these sticks is great for targeting stubborn plaque buildup, helping maintain clean teeth and healthy gums.
- Fresh Breath: The peppermint flavor not only makes these chews irresistible to dogs but also freshens their breath.
- Supports Digestion: Contains Chicory Root, providing Inulin, a prebiotic that aids in digestion.
- Quality Ingredients: Made with high-grade components, ensuring a healthy treat for dogs.
- Extended Chewing Time: Long-lasting nature keeps dogs engaged and supports dental health through prolonged chewing.
- Convenient Packaging: Comes in a resealable bag, keeping the chews fresh.
Cons
- Cost: Priced at nearly $1 per chew, they can be expensive for daily use.
Virbac Veggiedent FR3SH Tartar Control Chews
Pros:
- Effective Plaque Control: The unique “Z Shape” design ensures thorough cleaning, even in hard-to-reach areas, effectively scraping away tartar.
- Breath Freshening: Addresses the oral causes of bad breath, with noticeable improvement from day one.
- Supports Digestion: Besides dental health, these chews also promote proper digestion.
- High Palatability: My finicky dog loves them, making it easy to include in our daily routine.
- Veterinarian Recommended: Proven results in dental health, as observed by my vet over the years.
Cons
- Size Variability: For smaller breeds, the chews might be a bit large and may need to be portioned.
- Specific Taste: While my dog loves the flavor, some dogs might be less enthusiastic about the unique taste.
Minties Dental Chews
Pros
- Effective Plaque and Tartar Removal: Regular chewing helps in cleaning teeth and controlling plaque build-up.
- Breath Freshening: The mint flavor significantly improves breath odor.
- Healthy Ingredients: Free from wheat, soy, corn, artificial flavors, or animal by-products, making them a safe choice.
- Appealing to Dogs: Despite the mint flavor, dogs, including my own, find them irresistible.
- Unique Design: Encourages dogs to chew more, enhancing dental benefits.
Cons
- Mint Flavor: While appealing to many dogs, some may not prefer the mint taste.
- Chew Size: May not be suitable for all dog sizes, requiring monitoring during chewing to ensure safety.
Greenies Original Dental Chews
Pros
- Infused with dried blueberries, which give them a delightful scent.
- Purchasing them through Amazon offers great value for money.
Cons
- Some owners may find the scent less pleasant, though dogs seem to have no issue with it.
- Dogs might get tired of them if given daily, so moderation may be needed.
Oravet Dental Chews
Pros
- Effective Dental Care: These chews have shown their effectiveness in improving the oral hygiene of dogs, visibly reducing plaque and tartar buildup, and maintaining cleaner teeth.
- Irresistible Taste: Dogs seem to thoroughly enjoy the flavor of these chews, as they eagerly await their nightly “teeth-brushing” session.
- Size Appropriate: These dental chews are specifically tailored for small dogs in the 10-24 lbs. range, ensuring they meet the unique needs of these pets effectively.
Cons
- Choking Hazard for Toothless Dogs: These chews may pose a choking risk for older dogs with missing teeth, as they can be too hard to chew comfortably.
What To Look For When Buying Dental Chews for Plaque
When selecting dental chews for plaque, look for products that are specifically designed to reduce plaque and tartar, are size-appropriate for your dog, and are made from safe, high-quality ingredients.
These chews should effectively clean your dog’s teeth while being digestible and appealing to them.
Size and Hardness
The size and hardness of the dental chew are crucial.
A chew that’s too hard can damage your dog’s teeth, while one that’s too soft won’t be effective against plaque. Select a size that matches your dog’s breed and chewing strength.
Ingredients
High-quality ingredients are a must. Avoid chews with artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Natural ingredients are not only safer but can also offer additional health benefits.
Dental Benefits
Look for chews that have been clinically proven to reduce plaque and tartar.
Some chews are designed with special textures or contain ingredients that help clean the teeth as your dog chews.
What Makes Dental Chews Good For Removing Plaque
Dental chews are effective for removing plaque due to their physical abrasiveness, ingredients that promote dental health, and the chewing action that stimulates saliva production.
This combination helps reduce the buildup of plaque and tartar, leading to better oral health for your dog.
Physical Abrasiveness
The texture of the chew plays a significant role in scrubbing away plaque. As your dog chews, the surface of the dental chew rubs against the teeth, helping to remove plaque and food debris.
Active Ingredients
Some dental chews contain active ingredients that help break down plaque and tartar. These can
include enzymes, natural antibacterials, or compounds that prevent tartar formation. Ensuring these ingredients are safe and effective is key.
Chewing Action and Saliva Production
The act of chewing increases saliva production in your dog’s mouth. Saliva contains natural antibacterial properties and helps to wash away food particles and bacteria, further reducing plaque buildup.
Finally
Choosing the right dental chews for your dog is an essential part of their oral hygiene routine.
By understanding what to look for and how they work, you can ensure that your dog’s teeth remain clean and healthy.
Remember, while dental chews are beneficial, they should complement regular brushing and veterinary check-ups.
Your dog’s oral health is a crucial part of their overall well-being, and with the right care, you can keep those pearly whites shining for years to come.
FAQs
What is the most effective ingredient in dental chews for reducing plaque?
The most effective ingredients in dental chews for reducing plaque include enzymes that break down plaque and tartar, and natural antibacterials that maintain oral hygiene.
How often should I give my dog dental chews?
It’s generally recommended to give your dog dental chews daily, but you should follow the specific guidelines provided by the chew’s manufacturer and consult with your veterinarian.
Are dental chews a substitute for brushing my dog’s teeth?
No, dental chews are not a substitute for brushing. They are a supplement to regular brushing and professional dental care from your veterinarian.
I am an experienced pet owner with decades of experience owning a number of different pets, from traditional pets like dogs and cats, to the more exotic like reptiles and rodents. I currently own a Cockapoo (pictured) called Bailey. I am also the main writer and chief editor here at Pet Educate; a site dedicated to sharing evidence-based insights and guidance, based on my vast pet ownership knowledge, experience, and extensive research.