14 Best Dog Teeth Cleaning Chews

Studies show that more than 80% of dogs over the age of 3 are living with some level of periodontal disease, a nasty infection, and inflammation of the gums caused by the build-up of plaque and tartar.

Besides bad breath and tooth loss, advanced cases can even result in potentially life-threatening organ damage, which is why good doggy dental hygiene is so important!

14 Best Dog Teeth Cleaning Chews

Photo by Yoav Hornung via Unsplash

Combined with daily brushing, dental chews for dogs can help to significantly reduce plaque and tartar build-up between professional cleanings. You can check out our top picks for best dog teeth cleaning chews below along with some handy tips for choosing a chew that is right for your pup.

Things To Look For...

Some important features to look for (and consider) when selecting a dental chew that is right for your dog include;

  • Size – Avoid potential choking hazards and always select a chew that is the right size for your dog and their weight.
  • Texture/Shape – Textured treats and unique shapes encourage chewing which helps to actively clean the teeth.
  • Chewing Style – Consider your dog’s chewing style and preferences when selecting a chew that is right for you.
  • Ingredients – Dental treat ingredients vary wildly between brands, be mindful of any sensitivities your dog may have, and always check the ingredient list.
  • Age Appropriate – Opt for age appropriate chews i.e. softer chews for older dogs and puppies. Not all chews are suitable for all ages, always check the packaging.
  • Calories – Consider a low-calorie dental treat option if your dog is overweight.
  • Country of Origin – Always check where your dog’s treat is made as not all countries have the same high standards when it comes to pet food manufacturing.
  • VOHC Seal of Acceptance – Dental treats bearing the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal guarantee a level of effectiveness against the retardation of plaque and tartar on the teeth.
  • Veterinary Advice – Observe advice given by your vet regarding your dog’s specific dental health requirements and needs.

Best Dog Teeth Cleaning Chews

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1. Best Highly Rated and Reviewed

Best Dog Cleaning Chews - feat. GREENIES Original Regular Natural Dog Dental Care Chews Oral Health Dog Treats, 36 count (Pack of 1)

GREENIES DENTAL TREATS FOR DOGS – ORIGINAL

VOHC Accepted and vet recommended. A highly rated brand loved by pet parents (and pups!) around the globe. Available in 4 sizes and multiple flavors. Made in the USA. 3,119 kcal/kg.

2. Best Budget-Friendly/Value for Money

Best Dog Cleaning Chews - feat. PEDIGREE DENTASTIX Large Dog Dental Care Treats Original, Beef & Fresh Variety Pack, 2.73 lb.Pack (51 Treats)

PEDIGREE DENTASTIX FOR DOGS

  • VOHC Accepted
  • Economical, affordable
  • 4 flavors, 3 sizes
  • Made in the US/Canada
  • 2,860 kcal/kg
Best Dog Cleaning Chews - feat. Minties Dental Chews for Dogs, Vet-Recommended Mint-Flavored Dental Treats for Medium/Large Dogs over 40 lbs, Dental Bones Clean Teeth, Fight Bad Breath, and Removes Plaque and Tartar, 40 Count
  • VOHC Accepted
  • Gluten-free, corn/soy-free
  • Unique, textured shape
  • Made in the USA
  • 2,950 kcal/kg

3. Best for Sensitive Stomachs (Veggie-Based and Gluten-Free)

For dogs with sensitive stomachs, intolerances, and allergies, a short, high-quality, all-natural ingredient list is ideal.

Veggie-based, all-natural formulas, free from grain and gluten tend to be more easily tolerated by dogs with these types of sensitivities.

Best Dog Cleaning Chews - feat. WHIMZEES by Wellness Stix Natural Dental Chews for Dogs, Long Lasting Treats, Grain-Free, Freshens Breath, Large Breed, 7 count

WHIMZEES STIX NATURAL DENTAL CHEWS FOR DOGS

  • Veggie-based, GMO-free
  • Grain/gluten-free
  • Natural ingredients
  • Made in the Netherlands
  • 2,900 kcal/kg
Best Dog Cleaning Chews - feat. Whimzees Natural Daily Dental Long Lasting Dog Treats One Month Supply, Brushzees, Medium, Box of 30
  • VOHC Accepted
  • Grain/gluten-free
  • Veggie-based, GMO free
  • Made in the Netherlands
  • 2,890 kcal/kg
Best Dog Cleaning Chews - feat. Virbac CET Veggiedent FR3SH Tartar Control Chews for Dogs, Medium (Pack of 30)Beef,1.6 pounds

VIRBAC C.E.T. VEGGIEDENT FRESH

  • VOHC Accepted
  • Veggie-based, gluten-free
  • Prebiotic aids digestion
  • Made in Vietnam
  • 3,000 kcal/kg
  • Veggie-based
  • Grain/gluten-free
  • All-natural ingredients
  • Made in the USA
  • 2,866 kcal/kg

4. Best Low-Calorie Dog Teeth Cleaning Chews (kcal/kg)

When comparing calories per kilogram (kcal/kg) for popular dog dental treat brands, the following chews performed best from the brands reviewed.

Best Dog Cleaning Chews - feat. Milk-Bone Brushing Chews Daily Dental Dog Treats, Large, 20 Count

MILKBONE BRUSHING CHEWS DAILY DENTAL TREATS

  • VOHC Accepted
  • Unique textured shape
  • Value for money
  • Made in the USA
  • 2,580 kcal/kg
Best Dog Cleaning Chews - feat. ORAVET Dental Chews for Dogs, Oral Care and Hygiene Chews (Medium Dogs, 25-50 lbs.) Purple Pouch, 30 Count
  • VOHC Accepted
  • Delmopinol helps prevent bacterial attachment
  • Made in the USA
  • 2,491 kcal/kg (approx.)

Also see Bark Bright Dental Sticks below @ 2,552 kcal/kg.

5. Best Enzymatic Dog Teeth Cleaning Chews

Teeth cleaning chews with enzymatic properties (like those found in toothpaste) can be beneficial for your pup as they help to reduce the harmful bacteria in the mouth that allows dental plaque biofilm to form.

Enzymes also help to reduce the bacteria that causes bad breath, they’re all-natural too!

Best Dog Cleaning Chews - feat. Virbac CET Enzymatic Oral Hygiene Chews for Dogs, beef ,12.8 oz

VIRBAC C.E.T. ENZYMATIC ORAL HYGIENE CHEWS FOR DOGS

  • Dual enzyme system
  • Beef rawhide, chicken baste
  • 4 sizes available
  • Made in Mexico
  • 2,842 kcal/kg
  • Dental stick and enzymatic toothpaste works together
  • Wheat/corn/soy-free 
  • Made in the USA
  • 2,552 kcal/kg

6. Best Teeth Cleaning Chews for Senior Dogs

The following dental chew options are great for senior dogs and dogs with existing dental issues as they are softer than standard treats, gentler on gums and easier to chew.

Just keep an eye on your pup’s daily calorie intake if they’re prone to weight gain as these chews have a few more calories than others on this list!

Best Dog Cleaning Chews - feat. GREENIES Aging Care Regular Natural Dog Dental Care Chews Oral Health Dog Treats, 27 oz. Pack (27 Treats)

GREENIES AGING CARE DENTAL TREATS FOR DOGS

  • VOHC Accepted
  • 50% softer than original Greenies dental treats
  • Easier to chew/digest
  • Made in the USA
  • 3,137 kcal/kg
Best Dog Cleaning Chews - feat. Purina DentaLife Made in USA Facilities Small/Medium Dog Dental Chews, Daily - 40 ct. Pouch
  • VOHC Accepted
  • Chewy porous texture easier to chew, gentler on teeth
  • Affordable, budget-friendly
  • Made in the USA
  • 3,110 kcal/kg

7. Best Dog Teeth Cleaning Chews for Puppies

Many dog dental chews are much too hard for young dogs and as such, cannot be given to puppies under 6 months of age.

To assist with teething you should instead opt for a dental treat specifically designed and formulated for puppies that is gentle on teeth and gums as well as their stomachs. 

Whimzees all-natural daily dental treats for puppies do just that and are safe for pups as young as 3 months of age. 

Best Dog Cleaning Chews - feat. Whimzees by Wellness Dental Treats for Puppies, Natural, Grain Free, Helps to Clean Teeth, Freshen Breath, Reduce Tartar & Plaque, Longer Lasting Chew (M/L)

WHIMZEES ALL NATURAL DAILY DENTAL TREATS FOR PUPPIES

All-natural veggie-based formula suitable for puppies 3+ months and up. Soft and gentle on puppy teeth and gums. Grain-free, gluten-free and non-GMO ingredients. Made in the Netherlands. 3,200 kcal/kg.

Potential Risks to Keep in Mind...

  • As with any other type of dog treat or chew, choking is a serious risk. Always supervise your dog when they’re chewing and always ensure that you give your dog an appropriately sized chew for their size, weight, and chewing style.
  • Products designed to be chewed by animals may also occasionally cause intestinal problems or injury if not appropriate for the animal, or if not used as intended by the manufacturer. Always observe manufacturer guidelines on the pack.
  • Not all dogs will tolerate the same ingredients – keep an eye out for any sensitivities or adverse reactions and discontinue use immediately if these occur. Always consult your vet in this instance.
  • Always observe daily feeding limits on the pack.
  • Be mindful of where your dog’s treats are manufactured and where the ingredients come from as not all countries have the same high standards when it comes to pet food manufacturing.
  • Always ensure your dog has access to clean, fresh water in conjunction with feeding and treats.

Disclaimer:

While this post has been thoroughly researched, it is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult your vet when making changes to your dog’s diet and seek tailored advice from your vet regarding your dog’s specific dental health requirements.

Best Dog Teeth Cleaning Chews - best dental chews for dogs and puppies, featuring brands such as Greenie, Milk-Bone, Purina, Pedigree, Whimzees, VetIQ, Zuke's, OraVet, Virbac and Bark Bright.
Best Dog Teeth Cleaning Chews - best dental chews for dogs and puppies, featuring brands such as Greenie, Milk-Bone, Purina, Pedigree, Whimzees, VetIQ, Zuke's, OraVet, Virbac and Bark Bright.

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