Our Goleta Airport Pet Hospital veterinarians explain how to find out if a dog dental chew is worth purchasing, which factors to consider, and the safety tips every dog owner should keep in mind.
Do dental treats work for dogs?
As dog owners, we know maintaining a good oral health routine is critical to our dogs’ long-term health, and we’re always looking for the next way to save time. Although tooth brushing is one of the most effective ways to prevent our furry friends from getting periodontal disease (or the precursors of tartar buildup and inflamed gums), they do not often appreciate our efforts!
That’s why dog dental chews, sticks, treats, and more have become popular recently. But before you get overwhelmed with all the choices, let’s look at these oral healthcare products and find out if they are actually worth the cost.
How do dog dental chews work?
There’s not a cut-and-dry answer as to whether dental chews work. They may help keep your dog's teeth clean, and the dry kibble can be satisfying for your dog to crunch in her mouth, and it tastes yummy. Though properly designed chews can potentially reduce tartar and plaque buildup, they’re not a substitute for regular tooth brushing and professional dental cleanings - just an additional tool.
Feel free to use dental chews to supplement your dog’s oral care routine - somewhat like we sometimes chew sugar-free gum to keep our breath fresh, but we wouldn’t use this in place of regularly brushing our teeth or visiting the dentist.
Consider these factors before buying dog dental chews that claim they support dental health:
- Seek out long-lasting chew products such as nylon, rawhide, knucklebone, or rubber chew toys (watch these closely and toss them if your dog gnaws it down so much that it becomes a choking hazard).
- Make sure any treats or chews you provide are not too hard, as they can damage your dog’s teeth. Hooves, antlers, and bones are likely to cause problems.
- Find out how many calories are in your pup’s dental chews - you don’t want to deal with a weight problem while trying to reduce dental issues.
- Be skeptical of any claims that some products support dental health. Check the Veterinary Oral Health Council’s list of product recommendations for buys that are worth your money.
- Remember to book your pet’s routine oral exam and dental cleanings at your vet’s office.
How long should my dog spend chewing?
Give your dog about 30 minutes to get his chew on daily, giving them the maximum benefit from their dental chews.
A Note About Dog Breeds, Teeth & Oral Health Problems
If you’ve got a small breed dog, or your canine friend has a jaw that’s stacked or crowded with teeth, watch out - plaque and tartar are more likely to grow in hiding spots, no matter how much effort is put into chewing.
Good old toothbrush bristles can get under the gum line and be used to brush or scrape away bacteria that may cause periodontal disease.
Remember that your dog’s immune system, age, history, and breed can affect his health and contribute to whether he develops dental issues. This is why a qualified vet needs to see your pooch for routine health checkups.
Can puppies have dental chews?
You can offer your puppy dental chews once they are six months old. Offering chew sticks for puppies under 3 months is not recommended as it may be a choking hazard!
The Bottom Line
While some dental chews are effective for dogs, these aren’t a replacement for regular toothbrushing or professional dental care routines. These elements of a great oral health care routine should stay on your dog’s calendar, and their teeth will remain in good condition.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.