Are Dental Chews and Treats Good for Dogs? Everything You Should Know

February is National Pet Dental Health Month, and it's the perfect time to focus on your dog’s oral care routine. Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly is important for preventing dental disease, but it can be challenging to stay consistent. That’s why dog dental treats and chews have become such a popular choice with pet parents. These treats and chews are designed to help reduce plaque, freshen breath, and support gum health, but how effective are they?

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about dog dental treats and chews, including their benefits, how to choose the best option, and whether they’re enough to keep your pup’s teeth clean and healthy. By the end, you’ll understand how dental treats and chews fit into your dog’s oral care routine and if they’re right for your furry friend.

What Are Dog Dental Chews and Treats?

Dog dental treats and chews clean your dog’s teeth and satisfy their natural chewing instincts. They help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, making them an easy and convenient way to support your dog’s oral health.

There are several types of dental chews and treats available, including daily dental treats, bully sticks, and collagen chews. Each type has its own advantages, depending on your dog’s chewing habits and preferences. No matter what you choose, the most important thing is to pick a safe, digestible option so your dog enjoys it while getting the maximum dental benefits.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Treats?

Adding dental treats and chews for dogs to your pet's routine can support better oral health in several ways. Here’s why they’re a great addition to any dog’s dental care plan:

●      Reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Plaque is a sticky layer of bacteria on your dog’s teeth that can harden into tartar if not removed. Dental chews help remove plaque through the action of chewing, preventing it from becoming a more serious issue. Over time, this can lower the risk of periodontal disease and keep your dog’s teeth healthier. And it’s not just about keeping their teeth clean – untreated gum disease can lead to painful infections that spread to other parts of the body, affecting your dog’s overall health.

●      Support gum health by stimulating saliva production. Chewing naturally increases saliva flow, which helps rinse away food particles and bacteria that contribute to oral health problems. Healthy gums are just as important as clean teeth, and dental chews can help keep them in good shape.

●      Provide mental stimulation and satisfy chewing instincts. Dogs have a natural urge to chew, and offering them a safe, beneficial option like a dental chew is a great way to satisfy this need. The act of gnawing also provides mental enrichment, which can help reduce boredom, stress, and anxiety. And that means a happier, healthier dog that’s less likely to chew up your favorite shoes or the couch!

●      Freshen breath naturally. If your dog's breath could clear a room, dental chews with natural ingredients might just save the day (and your nose)! Simple, limited-ingredient chews often include parsley and other freshening agents that naturally combat odors. Plus, they're gentle on your dog’s stomach and easy for them to digest.

How to Choose the Best Dental Treat and Chew

Not all dog dental treats and chews are created equal, so it’s important to choose one that's safe, digestible, and effective. Here’s what to look for when picking the best option for your pup:

Pick the Right Size to Prevent Choking Risks

Size matters when it comes to dog dental treats and chews. A chew or treat that's too small can be a choking hazard, while one that's too large might be hard for smaller dogs to handle. As a rule of thumb, treats and chews should always be bigger than your dog’s snout, and hard treats and chews should be slightly wider than their mouth. Always select a chew or treat that matches your dog’s breed, size, and chewing style to ensure they can safely enjoy it.

Look for Natural Ingredients and Avoid Artificial Additives

Many dog dental treats contain artificial flavors, preservatives, and fillers, which don’t provide any real health benefits – and can even be harmful. Instead, look for options made with natural ingredients that are free from unnecessary additives. Not only are they healthier, but they’re also easier to digest and less likely to cause an upset tummy.

Check Digestibility to Ensure It's Safe for Your Dog

Some treats and chews are more digestible than others, especially for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Hard rawhide chews, for example, can be difficult to break down and may lead to digestive issues. Options like collagen chews and bully sticks tend to be easier to digest while still providing the dental benefits dogs need.

Consider Added Health Benefits

Some dental treats and chews offer additional health benefits beyond cleaning your dog’s teeth. Collagen chews, for example, provide joint and skin support, making them a great choice for senior dogs or breeds prone to joint issues. If your dog could benefit from extra nutrients, look for multi-purpose treats and chews that support overall health.

What Are the Best Dental Chews for Dogs?

There are plenty of dental treats and chews for dogs on the market, but some are more effective than others at supporting their oral health. Here are a few of our favorites – and why they stand out from the pack:

Daily Dental Treats and Chews

Daily dental treats and chews are an easy, convenient way to support your dog’s oral care routine. They help control plaque and tartar buildup while freshening breath, making them a great addition to your pup’s daily health habits. These treats are perfect for in-between brushing sessions and can reduce the risk of dental issues like gum disease and tooth loss when used regularly.

Pawstruck Daily Dental Brush Chews stand out for their high-quality, limited ingredients that are gentle on your dog’s stomach. Free from gluten, wheat, and corn, they contain no artificial additives and are made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients. Easy to digest and designed for everyday use, they’re an excellent option for dogs with food sensitivities and pet parents looking for a safe, effective way to boost their pup’s oral health.

Bully Sticks

Bully sticks are a tasty, long-lasting way to satisfy your dog’s chewing instincts while promoting dental health. They help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, freshen breath, and keep dogs happily occupied. Plus, they’re high in protein, making them a healthier alternative to rawhide.

Pawstruck Bully Sticks are made from a single beef ingredient with absolutely no artificial additives, or preservatives. They come in various sizes and shapes to suit dogs of all breeds and chewing habits. Whether you’ve got a small puppy or a powerful chewer, these natural chews are a delicious way to boost your dog’s dental care routine.

Collagen Chews

Collagen chews are a great way to support dental health while offering extra benefits. They help reduce plaque and tartar, promote joint health with naturally occurring glucosamine and chondroitin, and support skin and coat health. They’re also a tasty option for active and senior dogs.

Pawstruck Beef Collagen Chews are made from the soft inner layer of beef skin, making them easier to digest than traditional rawhide. These single-ingredient chews are free from artificial additives and preservatives. They’re long-lasting, full of nutrients, and perfect for dogs that love to chew. Choose from classic Beef Collagen Sticks or fun shapes like braids, rings, springs to give your pup a chewy challenge!

How Often Should Dogs Have Dental Treats and Chews?

Since they’re made with healthy, natural ingredients, dental chews can be a great daily addition to help control plaque and tartar buildup. However, every dog is different, and factors like chewing habits, diet, and overall health can affect how often they should have them.

Always make sure your dog has plenty of water and keep an eye on them during chew sessions to ensure they're safe and not breaking off large pieces. It's also important to regularly inspect the chew for wear and replace it if it gets too small to prevent choking hazards.

Are Dental Treats Enough for Oral Health?

While dog dental treats and chews are safe and effective, they should be part of a complete dental care routine rather than a replacement for brushing. The best way to maintain your dog’s oral health is to combine daily tooth brushing, professional vet checkups, and safe dental chews.

FAQs About Dental Treats and Chews

Can Puppies Have Dental Treats and Chews?

Yes, but not all dental treats and chews are safe for young puppies. Their teeth and jaws are still developing, so they need softer treats and chews that won’t be too hard on their mouths. Look for puppy-specific options that are designed for gentle chewing.

Are Dental Treats and Chews Good for Senior Dogs?

Yes, but older dogs may have weaker teeth and sensitive gums, so it’s important to choose a softer dental chew that won’t cause discomfort. Collagen chews are a great option, as they promote good dental hygiene, provide joint support, and are softer and more elastic than most other dental chews.

What’s the Safest Type of Dental Chew?

The safest dog dental treats and chews are those that are digestible, appropriately sized, and made from natural ingredients. Avoid overly hard treats and chews that can damage your dog’s teeth, and always choose products that suit your pup’s individual needs.

Key Takeaways

●      Dog dental treats and chews help reduce plaque and tartar. The chewing action scrapes away buildup and helps prevent serious problems like periodontal disease.

●      They freshen breath and support gum health. Increased saliva production helps remove bacteria that contribute to bad breath.

●      Not all dental treats and chews are created equal. Choosing natural, digestible, and appropriately sized chews is essential for safety and effectiveness.

●      Daily dental chews, bully sticks, and collagen chews are some of the best options for maintaining oral health.

●      Dental treats and chews alone are not enough. A complete dog dental care routine should also include regular tooth brushing and veterinary checkups.

Are Dental Treats and Chews the Right Choice for Your Dog?

Dog dental treats and chews work well as part of your dog’s oral care routine, but they’re most effective when combined with regular tooth brushing and professional dental cleanings. While they help control plaque and tartar, they shouldn’t replace routine health checkups or a complete dental hygiene routine.

If you’re thinking about purchasing dog dental treats and chews, look for options that are safe, digestible, and free from artificial additives. Always choose a chew that matches your dog’s size and chewing habits, and talk to your vet if you’re unsure which product is best for your furry family member.

Looking for high-quality dental treats and chews to support your dog's oral health? Check out our selection of doggie dental treats and give your pup something to smile about!