Ever caught a whiff of your dog’s breath and wondered if something actually died in there? You’re not alone—and here’s the kicker: bad breath is often the least of your worries. Over 80% of dogs show signs of dental disease by age three, and it’s not just about plaque—it can quietly lead to painful infections, tooth loss, or even heart issues. Sure, brushing helps—but let’s be honest, most dogs treat toothbrushes like chew toys or personal insults. That’s where dental treats come in. In this guide, we’ll break down the best dental dog treats by category—from allergy-friendly chews to vet-approved tartar busters—so you can make the smartest pick for your pup (and maybe finally breathe easy again).
Do Dog Dental Chews Work?
Dog dental treats are widely used to support oral health in dogs, claiming benefits such as reduced plaque, tartar, and bad breath. According to the latest scientific research, here is how dental treats can help dogs:
Plaque and tartar reduction: Daily dental chews consistently reduce plaque and calculus (tartar) buildup, slowing the progression of periodontal disease and supporting healthier gums.[1]
Improved breath: Dental chews lower volatile sulfur compounds in the breath, leading to less halitosis (bad breath).[2],[3]
Healthier oral microbiota: Chews can shift the oral microbiome, reducing harmful bacteria linked to gum disease and increasing beneficial bacteria.[4]
Gingivitis and gum health: Some chews also reduce gingivitis and gum bleeding, though results can vary depending on the product.[5]
When to Consider Dog Dental Chews?
When to Consider Dog Dental Chews
Why It Matters
Bad breath
Often signals plaque buildup or early gum disease. Dental chews help freshen breath by reducing bacteria.
Brushing isn’t realistic
For dogs that resist brushing, dental chews offer a convenient and low-stress alternative.
Early tartar buildup
Chews can help control and slow tartar accumulation between vet cleanings.
Vet recommends preventive care
Dental chews can be part of a vet-recommended plan to avoid costly dental procedures.
Over 6 months old
Most dental chews are designed for adult teeth. Puppies may need softer, teething-specific options.
Support overall health
Oral health is linked to heart, kidney, and liver function. Reducing oral bacteria lowers the risk of systemic disease.
Always consult your veterinarian before changing your dog’s diet. You can get personalized nutritional advice from an online registered vet nutritionist through Vetster anytime, anywhere. You can also chat with an online vet and ask them questions about which dental chews are safe and effective for your dog’s breed, size, age, or medical history. Similarly, an at-home dog gut health test can reveal helpful insights about the bacteria in your dog’s mouth, guiding your choice of chews that support better breath and plaque control. This information enables you to make informed choices about the right diet and care plan to support optimal digestion and nutrition.
Best Dental Chews For Dogs
Here are the best dog dental chews of this year.
Best Overall Dental Dog Chew
4.9
★★★★★
BARK Bright
Who It’s For: Dog owners looking for the most effective and easiest way to manage their pet’s oral hygiene.
Why we recommended it:BARK Bright combines a uniquely designed dental chew with a triple-enzyme toothpaste, creating a dual-action cleaning system. The ridged, star-shaped chews physically scrub plaque and tartar from teeth, while the enzymatic toothpaste breaks down debris and helps reduce bacteria in the mouth. This approach not only promotes fresher breath and healthier gums but also makes dental care more enjoyable for dogs, as most seem to love the chicken flavor. The chews themselves are free from artificial colors, flavors, grains, corn, and soy, and are made in the USA, which appeals to owners concerned about ingredient quality and sourcing.
What sets it apart from competitors: Unlike most dental treats that rely solely on mechanical abrasion, BARK Bright’s toothpaste contains live and active enzymes (amyloglucosidase, glucose oxidase, and lactoperoxidase) that actively break down plaque and bacteria. Plus, it’s backed by a one‑month results guarantee—making it low‑risk.
Best Dog Dental Chew For Small Breeds
4.6
★★★★★
Minties
Who It’s For: Minties is tailored for owners of small breeds looking for an easy, daily dental routine.
Why we recommended it:Minties for small breeds features unique scrubbing texture with five natural breath fresheners—alfalfa, peppermint, parsley, fennel, and dill—which work together to reduce plaque, tartar, and bad breath. The chews are shaped with bumps and ridges, encouraging dogs to chew thoroughly and mechanically clean their teeth.
What sets it apart from competitors: A focus on natural breath-freshening ingredients and a formula that avoids common allergens and additives. The chews are VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) approved, which is a significant endorsement for dental efficacy.
Best Dog Dental Chews For Large Breeds
4.5
★★★★★
Blue Buffalo Dental Bones
Who It’s For: A trusted pick for owners of big breeds who want a wholesome, effective way to support their dog’s dental health. These chews are crafted with large, powerful jaws in mind.
Why we recommended it:Blue Buffalo Dental Bones feature a ridged, chewy texture which helps scrub away plaque and freshen breath. Made with no artificial preservatives, grains, or chicken by‑product meals, they stand out as a cleaner alternative to many types of chews. They’re enhanced with added minerals for overall wellness.
What sets it apart from competitors: Blue Buffalo’s claims emphasize natural, wholesome ingredients—no corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives—unlike some popular chews. The texture is firm yet digestible, working effectively without being overly hard.
Best Dog Dental Chews for a Sensitive Stomach
4.7
★★★★★
Virbac
Who It’s For: Ideal for dog owners whose pups have delicate digestive systems but still need daily dental support.
Why we recommended it:Virbac’s Zen chews offer a smart trifecta—they mechanically clean teeth with a unique Z-shape, freshen breath, and support gut health in one serving. Each chew embeds a prebiotic to help maintain intestinal wellness and includes L‑theanine from green tea, which owners say seems to calm their dogs when used regularly. Because the formula avoids animal proteins and added gluten, it cuts down the common culprits of digestive upset while delivering effective tartar control.
What sets it apart from competitors: Its Z-shape is designed to reach the full dentition—from molars to incisors—offering better mechanical action than flat or cylindrical competitors.
Best Budget Dog Dental Chews
4.7
★★★★★
Zesty Paws
Who It’s For: Ideal for cost-conscious pet parents who want a chewable daily dental support without breaking the bank.
Why we recommended it:Zesty Paws Dental Bones are well-suited for dogs of all sizes and life stages, making them a versatile pick for multi-dog households or owners looking for a one-size-fits-most solution. They offer more than just dental cleaning: the bones include functional ingredients like calcium for bone health, omega-3 for skin and coat, turmeric for inflammation, and prebiotics for digestion. The cinnamon flavor is a unique twist that many owners say helps with bad breath, and the ridged texture is designed to reach between teeth and scrub away tartar.
What sets it apart from competitors: These are more than a basic chew—they double as a functional supplement. Unlike many dental sticks that only focus on plaque removal, Zesty Paws adds in vitamins, prebiotics, calcium, and anti-inflammatory spices to support gut, skin, and immune health in one bite.
Best Dog Dental Chews For Allergies
4.6
★★★★★
BARK Bright Allergy Friendly
Who It’s For: Designed for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies to avoid common allergens in their dental care routine.
Why we recommended it:BARK Bright Allergy‑Friendly Dental Kit combines a durable, allergy-friendly dental chew with a proprietary berry mint toothpaste, both free from grains, corn, soy, and artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. The chews use pea protein and potato flour as their base, avoiding animal proteins that commonly trigger allergies, and the toothpaste is formulated with natural blueberry flavor and peppermint for breath-freshening without dairy or chicken ingredients. The unique nubs and grooves on the chews help distribute the toothpaste and provide a thorough mechanical cleaning, while the triple-enzyme toothpaste breaks down plaque and tartar, supporting oral health in a way that’s gentle on sensitive stomachs.
What sets it apart from competitors: The kit’s combination of a tough, textured chew and an enzymatic toothpaste is rare among allergy-friendly dental products, providing both mechanical and enzymatic cleaning without common triggers.
Best Dog Dental Chews for Bad Breath
4.5
★★★★★
Purina DentaLife
Who It’s For: Strong choice for owners whose dogs struggle with persistent bad breath and who want a convenient.
Why we recommended it:The DentaLife ActivFresh goes beyond simply masking odors—these chews use a proprietary blend of honey and all-natural spirulina, ingredients scientifically tested to target the source of bad breath rather than just covering it up. The chews feature nine distinct ridges that help scrub teeth and gums, reducing plaque and tartar buildup while stimulating gum health. The dense, chewy texture satisfies dogs’ natural urge to chew, and the absence of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives is a plus for health-conscious pet parents.
What sets it apart from competitors: Offers a targeted approach to halitosis: the active ingredients work in both the mouth and digestive tract, addressing bad breath at multiple sources. The treats are produced in Purina-owned facilities in the USA, offering consistency and quality control.
Best Natural Dog Dental Chew
4.8
★★★★★
BOCCE’S Brushy Sticks
Who It’s For: Perfect for dog owners seeking a daily, natural dental aid that aligns with holistic feeding habits and is made from organic ingredients.
Calories: 34, 55 or 155 cals/treat (varies per size)
Life stage: All ages
Why we recommended it:Bocce’s Bakery Brushy Sticks rely on a simple, plant-based ingredient list—featuring chickpeas, coconut, apples, spinach, and peppermint oil—to promote oral hygiene and fresh breath without resorting to artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. The bristle-shaped design helps mechanically clean teeth and gums, and the inclusion of mint and coconut is frequently praised by owners for noticeably improving their dogs’ breath.
What sets it apart from competitors: The treats are made using only recognizable, real-food components and skip the artificial “flavorings” or fillers commonly found in other dental chews. They’re baked in the USA in small batches, aligning with brands that prioritize local sourcing and sustainability.
Tastiest Dog Dental Chew
4.7
★★★★★
Shameless Pets
Who It’s For: Excellent pick for dog owners who want a dental treat that’s super tasty and thanks to their variety of flavors and sizes, as well as their gentle, grain-free recipes
Why we recommended it:Shameless Pets Dental Chews combine irresistible flavors—like Blueberry Mint, Carrot Salmon, Banana Bone Broth, and Chicken Apple—with a chewy, ridged texture that helps clean teeth and freshen breath. The inclusion of superfoods such as chia, mint, and blueberries not only boosts palatability but also provides added health benefits like antioxidant and immune support. Their fun flavors and focus on eco-friendly practices make them a standout for environmentally conscious pet owners seeking both taste and health benefits in a dental treat.
What sets it apart from competitors: Commitment to sustainability—they use at least 30% upcycled ingredients in each treat, helping to reduce food waste while delivering a nutritious product. The treats are free from grain, corn, soy, and artificial flavors, and are made in the USA with high-quality, real-food ingredients.
Best Dog Dental Chews For Plaque
4.5
★★★★★
ProDen PlaqueOff
Who It’s For: Especially well-suited for dog owners who want an effective, natural solution for reducing plaque and tartar while also supporting fresh breath and overall wellness.
Why we recommended it:ProDen PlaqueOff System Dental Care Bones are one of the few dental treats clinically studied to significantly reduce plaque and tartar, thanks to their unique active ingredient: 100% natural kelp (A.N ProDen®), sustainably harvested from Scandinavian waters. The bones work through a dual-action approach—combining the proven effects of the kelp with a specially designed bone shape that helps mechanically clean teeth and gums as the dog chews. Many veterinarians recommend these treats for ongoing oral health, and owners often report visible improvements in their dogs’ teeth and breath within three to eight weeks of consistent use.
What sets it apart from competitors: Clinically proven kelp ingredient, which is not found in any other dental chew, and its versatility—available in a range of flavors such as bacon, chicken & pumpkin, turkey & cranberry, and peanut butter & banana, as well as mini sizes for smaller breeds. The bones also contain omega 3 and 6 fatty acids and antioxidants to support immune health, making them a more holistic option.
Best Dog Dental Chews For Puppies
4.6
★★★★★
Whimzees Puppy
Who It’s For: Tailored for puppies weighing between 5–20 lbs, starting from around 3 months old.
Why we recommended it:WHIMZEES by Wellness Puppy Dental Chews are VOHC-approved, ensuring their effectiveness in promoting oral health. Their grooved, whimsical shapes (teddy bears, ducks) are not just cute but also functional, designed with knobby textures and hollow spaces that encourage thorough chewing and help clean hard-to-reach areas in a puppy’s mouth. They are low in fat, so there’s little concern about weight gain when given as directed, and their firm texture means they last longer than many other puppy dental chews, maximizing cleaning action and keeping puppies occupied.
What sets it apart from competitors: Custom-crafted for smaller mouths and growing dental structures, reducing risk of damage or choking. They’re made with just six non‑GMO ingredients and no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives—leaner than many adult-targeted treats
Best Dog Dental Chews For Seniors
4.7
★★★★★
Greenies Aging Care
Who It’s For: Perfect for senior dogs with sensitive gums, missing teeth, or reduced chewing strength—who benefit from softer yet thorough tooth-cleaning treats.
Why we recommended it:Greenies Aging Care are 50% softer than the original Greenies formula and most dental dog treats, making them easier for aging dogs to chew without sacrificing cleaning power. The treats are crafted with natural, easy-to-digest ingredients and are enriched with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and nutrients like glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids to support joint health and overall wellness. The formula is free from artificial flavors and preservatives, and the treats are made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients, offering peace of mind regarding quality and safety.
What sets it apart from competitors: Features a thoughtful blend of dental and senior-specific benefits: the treats not only clean teeth and gums but also include ingredients like New Zealand green mussel and chicken cartilage for natural joint support. Their unique texture and nutritional profile are tailored to the needs of older dogs, making them a standout for senior canine dental care.
Other Dental Dog Chews
Best bulk dog dental treat: Kirkland Signature Dental Chews 72 Count Box is a top pick for bulk buyers looking for both value and effectiveness. This 72-count box delivers a month’s worth of daily chews for multi-dog households or heavy chewers. The treats are made with natural ingredients and include ridges that help reduce plaque and tartar while freshening breath.
Best dog dental treat for tiny dogs: Wag Dental Dog Treats are designed specifically for tiny dogs, with a size and texture that’s safe for pups weighing 5 to 15 pounds. The star-shaped design helps scrub teeth from multiple angles, while a blend of natural ingredients supports fresher breath and better oral hygiene. These treats are also made without added corn, soy, or artificial colors, making them a more thoughtful choice for sensitive dogs.
Best dog dental treat alternative: Yummy Combs Dog Dental Treats are a smart alternative to traditional dental chews, offering an innovative honeycomb shape that surrounds the tooth for deeper cleaning. They contain over 40% protein and are fortified with essential vitamins, minerals, and prebiotics, functioning more like a dental supplement than just a treat. The wide surface area slows down fast eaters and discourages gulping, making it safer for aggressive chewers.
Best limited ingredient dog dental treat: Nylabone Nutri Dent Dog Dental Chews are perfect for dogs with food sensitivities or ingredient intolerances. Made with just 10 natural ingredients, these treats avoid common irritants like artificial colors, preservatives, and added sugars. The patented dental nubs help scrub teeth and massage gums, while the gentle formulation supports digestion.
The Bottom Line
Your dog’s dental health isn’t just about fresh breath—it’s a window into their overall well-being. The right dental treat can do more than clean teeth; it can support digestion, reduce vet bills, and even extend your dog’s life. But as you’ve seen, not all chews are created equal. Whether you’re dealing with allergies, picky eaters, or stubborn tartar, there’s a targeted option that fits your pup’s needs—and your budget. So before you reach for the nearest treat at the pet store, ask yourself: Is it truly helping your dog’s health, or just masking the problem? With the right dental chew, you’re not just treating your dog—you’re protecting them.
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Sources
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