May 23
What Kind of Dental Chews Should Our Dogs Have?
What's your dog’s dental chews? we’re thinking about this especially after going through what PetParentAdvisor shared about how many dogs over the age of 3 start dealing with gum issues.
seen from Netherlands
seen from United States
seen from Saudi Arabia
seen from T1
seen from United States
seen from Malaysia
seen from T1
seen from Malaysia
seen from T1
seen from United States
seen from Vietnam
seen from China
seen from Canada
seen from T1
seen from T1
seen from Hong Kong SAR China
seen from China
seen from China
seen from Poland
seen from Germany
What Kind of Dental Chews Should Our Dogs Have?
What's your dog’s dental chews? we’re thinking about this especially after going through what PetParentAdvisor shared about how many dogs over the age of 3 start dealing with gum issues.
What dental chews are effective and safe for dogs?
Keeping a dog’s mouth healthy matters just as much as regular meals, playtime, and long walks. Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs — but you can help prevent it. Dental chews are a popular tool among pet parents because they’re fun for dogs and help with oral health. But not all dental chews are created equal. So what kind should our dogs have?
Let’s break it down.
Why Dental Chews Matter
Dogs don’t brush their teeth (sadly), and plaque can build up quickly. Over time, this plaque hardens into tartar, which can lead to:
Gum inflammation (gingivitis)
Bad breath
Tooth loss
Pain/infection
Secondary health issues (heart, liver, kidneys)
Dental chews can help reduce plaque and tartar simply through mechanical action — chewing scrapes teeth clean and stimulates gums. But choosing the right one is key.
Look for Veterinary Endorsement
The best dental chews are those that actually work.
👉 When shopping, check for chews with the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal or veterinarian approval. That means they’ve been tested and shown to reduce plaque and/or tartar, not just freshen breath.
Size and Texture Should Match Your Dog
One size does not fit all when it comes to dental chews.
Why it matters: A chew that’s too small can be a choking hazard. Too hard or too large might damage teeth or frustrate your dog.
Here’s how to choose:
Small dogs: softer, smaller chews
Medium dogs: medium-textured chews
Large/giant breeds: larger, firmer chews
Heavy chewers: extra-durable chews designed for power chewing
A good rule: the chew should be roughly the size of your dog’s muzzle, but not small enough to swallow whole.
Safe Ingredients = Better Digestion
Not all chews are created from wholesome ingredients. Check the label!
Look for chews that are:
✔ Free from artificial colors and flavors ✔ Low in unnecessary fillers ✔ Free from harmful preservatives like BHA/BHT ✔ Simple and digestible for your dog
If your dog has allergies or sensitive digestion, choose limited-ingredient or grain-free options.
Texture That Helps Clean
The texture plays a huge role in how effective a dental chew is.
Textured/ridged chews help scrape plaque off teeth
Flexible but firm chews encourage chewing without cracking teeth
Multi-layered shapes force your dog to work a bit — good for cleaning!
Smooth, soft chews might not provide the physical action needed to reduce buildup.
Match the Chew to Your Dog’s Chewing Style
Every dog chews differently:
Nibblers — prefer softer chews
Crunchers — like medium resistance
Power chewers — need tough, durable chews that last
Understanding your dog’s style helps you pick a chew they enjoy and benefit from.
Avoid These Problem Chews
Some chews can do more harm than good:
🚫 Very hard chews (like cooked bones, antlers) — risk cracking teeth 🚫 Chews with xylitol (toxic for dogs) 🚫 Sugary or high-calorie treats with no dental benefit 🚫 Chews that splinter or break easily
If a chew shatters into sharp pieces, don’t give it to your dog.
Dental Chews Are a Bonus — Not a Replacement
Chews help, but they’re not a cure-all.
A complete dental care routine includes:
🪥 Regular tooth brushing (even 2–3 times/week helps) 🐶 Annual or biannual vet checkups 🧹 Professional cleanings when recommended
Dental chews support — they don’t replace — these essentials.
Safe Chewing Tips
✔ Always supervise your dog when giving a new chew ✔ Introduce new chews slowly ✔ Watch how fast your dog eats them ✔ Rotate through different chew types for interest
Final Thoughts
The best dental chew for your dog is one that’s:
Vet-backed or VOHC-approved
Right size and texture
Safe and digestible
Matched to your dog’s chewing style
Fresh Smileezz all natural dog dental chews are designed to promote dental health using a wide shape to clean the entire surface of the tooth and massage the surrounding gum line. Our unique grain free formula includes real parsley, dill and mint to eliminate odor causing bacteria for fresh breath you can really smell. . #PetShopPlus #dogs #dentalchews (at Lagos, Nigeria) https://www.instagram.com/p/B_8x28wlRUC/?igshid=1fywv6j5q4rfu
New! Frozen Peanut Butter Stuffed Whimzee - Whimzees are a dental chew that are completely edible and easily digestible. Our Frozen Stuff Whimzees are a cool creamy treat your dog will love!
New! Frozen Peanut Butter Stuffed Whimzee - Whimzees are a dental chew that are completely edible and easily digestible. Our Frozen Stuff Whimzees are a cool creamy treat your dog will love!