Finding the best dental chews for dogs can feel overwhelming. Many brands promise miraculous results, but which ones genuinely work?
This guide helps you choose the best dental chews for dogs, cutting through the marketing jargon to prioritise your dog's oral hygiene.
Key Takeaways
- Dental disease is common in dogs and can cause serious health issues if untreated.
- Dental chews help prevent plaque buildup, freshen breath, and stimulate saliva production. They are an easy way to support oral hygiene between vet visits.
- The top 3 dental chews at Zach's Pet Shop are: Freeze Dry Australia Chicken Necks, Drool Teeth + Breath Balls, and Freeze Dry Australia Pig Snouts.
- Daily use is typically fine, but moderation is key due to calorie content. Check the packaging or consult your vet for specific recommendations.
- Alternatives include brushing, dental wipes, dental toys, raw bones (never cooked), and water additives to manage plaque and bad breath.
- Brushing is the gold standard for dental care. Start young, use dog-specific products, and combine brushing with dental chews for the best results.
- A combined approach of dental chews and regular brushing offers the best protection against gum disease.
Table of Contents
- Why Dental Chews Matter
- 3 Best Dental Chews for Dogs
- Are Dental Chews Good for My Dog?
- How Often Should I Give My Dog Dental Chews?
- Tips for Doggy Dental Health
- Alternative Options to Dental Chews
- Are You Supposed to Brush Your Dog's Teeth?
- FAQ
- Ian's Wrap
Why Dental Chews Matter
Dental disease is a common problem for dogs. By age three, most dogs show signs of gum disease . If left untreated, this can lead to pain, difficulty eating, tooth loss and other health problems.
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential, but daily oral hygiene practices can really help. Dental chews offer a flavoursome way to manage dental health effectively between vet visits by reducing plaque and tartar buildup.
3 Best Dental Chews for Dogs
No single dental chew suits every dog. The best choice depends on factors including your dog's preferences, size, age, dietary requirements and chewing habits.
Our top 3 recommended dental treats are:
Freeze Dry Australia - Chicken Necks
These dual action treats are both a tasty snack and a natural toothbrush, cleaning your dog's teeth as they chew.
Freeze Dry Australia Chicken Necks are made from 100% raw chicken necks that have been freeze-dried to retain maximum nutrition. They have no additives, making them a great option for dogs with food allergies or sensitive stomachs.
Drool by Dr. Chris Brown - Teeth + Breath Balls
Created by Australian TV vet Dr. Chris Brown, Drool's Teeth + Breath Balls are a tasty way to clean your dog's mouth.
They help both teeth and gum health including plaque buildup. Containing 4 active ingredients, these clever dog treats even work if your dog scoffs them down without chewing!
Freeze Dry Australia - Pig Snouts
Freeze Dried Pig Snouts are all-natural, raw dental treats with a flavour dog's love. The freeze-drying process retains maximum nutrients for your dog without you having to handle raw meat.
As your dog chews, these high-protein snacks clean their teeth - nature's toothbrush!
Are Dental Chews Good for My Dog?
Dental treats are excellent for your dog’s oral health and overall well-being. These chews are designed to reduce plaque and tartar buildup on your dog’s teeth, which can lead to gum disease, bad breath, and tooth decay if left unchecked.
Their texture encourages chewing, which helps scrape off debris and stimulates saliva production, a natural defence against bacteria in the mouth.
Many vet recommended dental sticks are infused with ingredients that freshen breath, like parsley or charcoal, and some even contain enzymes to combat harmful bacteria.
To maximise benefits, choose dental chews that are appropriately sized for your dog and made from safe, natural ingredients. Always supervise your dog while chewing.
How Often Should I Give My Dog Dental Chews?
Most dental chews are suitable for daily use but refer to the product packaging for specific recommendations.
While these treats are good for your dog's oral health, they can be high in calories. Give all treats - even healthy ones - in moderation. Consider your dog's overall daily calorie intake and ask your vet for advice if you are unsure.
Tips for Doggy Dental Health
Dental chews are a helpful component of maintaining good dental health, but they're just one piece of the puzzle.
Feeding dry dog food for daily meals can help scrape away plaque and keep your dog's teeth clean, while wet dog food can get stuck to the teeth and cause decay.
Avoid treats that are high in sugar or contain a large amount of artificial ingredients.
We recommend you regularly inspect your dog's gums and teeth. If you notice redness, swelling or bad smells, book a vet checkup.
Regular visits with your vet can help keep an eye on your dog's teeth and provide personalised advice to create a good oral hygiene routine.
Alternative Options to Dental Chews
If your dog doesn't seem interested in dental chews, there are other options on the market.
- Brushing your dog’s teeth is the most proven effective method for fighting plaque. Wiping their teeth with dog dental wipes can also make a positive difference.
- Dog dental toys feature ridges and textured edges, so as your dog chews on them, their teeth are cleaned. The KONG Dental Stick is a popular option - it has space inside to hide treats, to encourage your dog to chew for longer.
- Raw bones can also help scrape away tartar. Avoid cooked bones, as they can splinter and pose a choking hazard. Supervise your dog with any bone.
- Water additives are a liquid that can be added to your dog's water that help control plaque and dog bad breath.
Are You Supposed to Brush Your Dog's Teeth?
Dental chews offer a convenient way to clean your dog's teeth daily. However, brushing remains the gold standard for preventing plaque buildup.
If you begin brushing your dog's teeth from a young age, it is less likely to resist. Brush very gently and use lots of praise and pats to make the experience more enjoyable.
Always use dog-specific toothbrushes and toothpaste.
Regular brushing plus dental dog treats will improve your dog's oral hygiene practices, keeping their teeth as clean as possible for years to come.
FAQ
What is the most effective dog dental chew?
The most effective chew depends on your dog’s individual needs, considering their size, chewing style, and any sensitivities.
Raw bones, freeze-dried chicken necks, Greenies, Pedigree Dentastix and Oravet Dental Chews are all great options.
What do vets recommend for dogs to chew in Australia?
Australian vet recommended dog treats are usually also approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VHOC) in the USA too.
Bones, under supervision and never cooked, are a very common suggestion.
Speak with your vet about recommendations for fresh breath and further insight into suitable options for your breed of dog.
What is the best thing for a dog to chew on to clean teeth?
Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly is the most effective way to clean their teeth. Since this isn't always easy, dental chews are the next best thing for convenient daily cleaning. Raw bones, suitable for your dog's size, also help control plaque and tartar.
Ian's Wrap
Choosing the best dental chews for dogs requires careful consideration. Consult your vet for personalised guidance.
Combining dental chews with regular brushing offers the best approach for your dog's teeth. This helps reduce their risk of periodontal diseases and provides them with tasty treats.
Zach's Pet Shop stocks various healthy dental treats for dogs, including freeze-dried chicken necks and pig snouts.
