Dog Dental Chews That Vets Recommend

Why Dental Chews Matter for Dogs

Dental disease affects over 80 percent of dogs by age three, making it the most common health condition in pets. Daily brushing is the gold standard, but dental chews provide an additional layer of defense against plaque and tartar buildup. The mechanical action of chewing scrapes away soft plaque before it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed through professional veterinary cleaning.

What Makes a Dental Chew Effective

• VOHC seal of approval: The Veterinary Oral Health Council awards its seal to products that meet strict standards for reducing plaque or tartar. Always look for this seal when choosing dental chews.
• Texture and shape: Ridges, nubs, and grooves increase surface contact with teeth, improving cleaning effectiveness. The chew should be firm enough to require sustained chewing.
• Active ingredients: Some dental chews contain enzymes, polyphosphates, or chlorhexidine that chemically inhibit plaque formation in addition to mechanical cleaning.
• Digestibility: A quality dental chew should be fully digestible to avoid gastrointestinal blockages, especially important for dogs that tend to swallow large pieces.

Choosing the Right Size

Dental chews come in sizes matched to your dog's weight range. Using the correct size ensures your dog chews long enough for cleaning benefit. A chew that is too small may be swallowed whole, providing no dental benefit and posing a choking risk. A chew that is too large may be too hard for smaller dogs, potentially causing tooth fractures. Always follow the manufacturer's sizing guidelines.

How Often to Give Dental Chews

Most veterinarians recommend one dental chew per day for optimal oral health. Give the chew after a meal when your dog is not ravenously hungry, which encourages slower, more thorough chewing. Factor the calories from dental chews into your dog's daily food intake to prevent weight gain. Some dental chews have surprisingly high calorie counts, so check the packaging and adjust meal portions accordingly.

Shop VOHC-approved dental chews and oral care products at PlusPet for a healthier smile.