The Best Dog Dental Chews and Treats, With Guidance From Veterinarians

Like humans, dogs need routine dental care to prevent bad breath, gum disease, and tooth loss. Taking your dog for regular professional cleanings at a veterinarian’s office is the most important aspect of oral healthcare, but at-home maintenance is critical, too. Along with brushing their teeth daily, giving them the best dental chews for dogs can be an easy way to help keep their teeth healthy.

To identify the best chews and treats, we consulted canine dental health experts and closely evaluated products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC), which reviews and verifies the effectiveness of oral care products for animals. Our top pick is Virbac C.E.T. Veggiedent Fr3sh Tartar Control Chews. These long-lasting chews feature a distinctive shape designed to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.

Even the best dental chews and treats shouldn’t replace daily brushing or routine professional cleanings. They work best as part of a well-rounded oral care routine. You can also use one the best dog toothpaste to make brushing more enjoyable for your pet.

Read more about how Insider Reviews tests and researches pet products.

Our top picks for the best dog dental chews and treats

Best overall: Virbac C.E.T. Veggiedent Fr3sh Tartar Control Chews for Dogs – See at Chewy

Best budget: Purina DentaLife Daily Oral Care Dog Treats – See at Chewy

Best for large dogs: Pedigree Dentastix Variety Pack for Large Dogs – See at Chewy

Best for small dogs: Greenies Petite Dental Treats – See at Chewy

Best for allergies: Wellness Whimzees Brushzees Natural Dental Treats for Dogs – See at Chewy

Best overall

The best dog dental chews share two key qualities: They take time for dogs to chew and are designed to physically scrape plaque from the teeth. Our top pick, Virbac C.E.T. Veggiedent Fr3sh Tartar Control Chews, has a unique Z-shaped design that encourages longer chewing while helping reach areas of the teeth that are harder to clean.

A dental treat must be long-lasting to be effective, says Dr. Brenda Mulherin, a board-certified veterinary dentist and clinical professor at Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Extended chewing creates a brushing-like mechanical action, which is the only effective way to remove plaque from a dog’s teeth.

You can give your dog a Virbac C.E.T. chew once daily to help control plaque buildup. Plaque is a bacterial film that forms on the teeth and, over time, hardens into tartar — a brown, hard substance that can only be completely removed through professional dental cleanings. Mulherin says the excessive and prolonged presence of plaque and tartar leads to periodontal disease, which can destroy a dog’s gums and teeth if left untreated.

The chews have a short ingredient list and contain no animal proteins, making them a suitable option for dogs with meat sensitivities or allergies. That said, some dogs may not find the single available flavor enticing.

Best budget

Purina DentaLife Daily Oral Care Dog Treats are an excellent choice for those seeking an effective dental chew at a lower price point. These chews have a rice and wheat flour base and a ridged, cylindrical shape that helps reach tight spots on a dog’s teeth. You can choose from sizes mini, small/medium, and large.

While these treats are VOHC-accepted for tartar only, Mulherin says that distinction doesn’t make them any less effective for reducing plaque. Because plaque is a precursor to tartar, she says some brands may only request the VOHC evaluate a chew’s effectiveness for preventing tartar buildup. A dental chew that’s VOHC-accepted for tartar will still slow plaque buildup and mineralization of tartar. “In general, a dental treat or dental diet will help decrease plaque and calculus by about 40% compared to doing nothing at all,” says Dr. Stephanie Goldschmidt, a board-certified veterinary dentist and assistant professor of dentistry and oral surgery at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine.

These chews contain chicken byproduct meal, so they may not be a good choice for dogs with chicken sensitivities or for those that avoid poultry-based flavors.

Best for large dogs

When selecting the best dog dental chews, the size of your pup is a crucial consideration. If you have an extra-large breed dog, you’ll want to supervise chewing to ensure the treat is appropriately sized. It’s important to avoid small dental treats that can be swallowed and pose a choking hazard, says Dr. Dwight Alleyne, a senior associate veterinarian at Petfolk and expert at JustAnswer.

Our top pick for large dogs weighing 40 pounds or more is Pedigree Dentastix. These rice- and wheat-based chews are available in a variety pack with three flavors — two meaty options and one mint-flavored chew. Despite their generous size, measuring just under 5 inches long, they’re lower in calories than most chews made for large dogs.

The longer length and X-shaped design promote longer chewing sessions, while the ridged texture reaches more surfaces of the teeth to remove plaque. Goldschmidt recommends following the size recommendations listed on the package.

This variety pack is a great choice for dogs that enjoy various flavors. If your dog is more selective, Pedigree Dentastix are also sold in single-flavor packs, including chicken, beef, and fresh mint.

Best for small dogs

The best dog dental chews can vary depending on a dog’s size. Small breeds, in particular, may have difficulty chewing larger dental treats, which is why choosing the right size is key for effectiveness. Greenies Petite Dental Dog Treats are designed specifically for smaller mouths. The chewy treats have a toothbrush-shaped form and grooves that help scrub plaque from the teeth.

Smaller dogs are often more prone to dental disease because their compact, crowded mouths allow plaque and tartar to build up more quickly, Goldschmidt says. She adds that chews that are too large can be difficult for small dogs to break up, while treats that are too small may pose a choking hazard.

Greenies Petite Dental Treats are available in seven varieties, including fruit and vegetable flavors, as well as an Aging Care option that contains glucosamine and chondroitin. However, all varieties contain gelatin, which may not be suitable for dogs with sensitivities to animal protein.

Best for allergies

Many of the best dog dental chews aren’t suitable for pups with sensitivities or allergies to meat proteins and gluten. Wellness Whimzees Brushzees are free of these ingredients, making them a strong choice for dogs with specific dietary restrictions.

Alleyne recommends dental chews with unique shapes and textured surfaces because multidimensional designs may be more effective at disturbing plaque than smooth, flat treats. Whimzees Brushzees feature deep ridges and a wide, tooth-shaped top that helps target plaque during chewing.

Because these chews are relatively high in calories, they should be given in moderation and with guidance from your veterinarian.

Our top picks compared

What to look for in dog dental chews

Finding the best dental chews for your dog can involve some trial and error. With guidance from our experts, we identified several key factors to consider, including shape and texture, ingredients, VOHC acceptance, size, and nutrition transparency.

Shape: Look for dental sticks with unique shapes that promote longer chewing sessions. “Dental chews only work if dogs chew the treat,” says Alleyne. “Some dogs will just swallow the treat, so they’re not as effective.” He explains that chews with unique shapes and ridges can keep your dog engaged while they chew, which may help the treat last longer and increase its effectiveness at removing plaque.

Consistency: It’s essential to choose a dental chew that isn’t too hard. “What we don’t like are any sort of chews that are so hard that an animal might break their teeth on them,” says Dr. Nadine Fiani, a board-certified veterinary dentist and an associate clinical professor in the section of dentistry and oral surgery at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. She recommends this simple test: If you can indent the chew with your fingernail, it’s most likely safe for your dog. Avoid rawhide, antlers, and bones, which can crack and break teeth and pose a risk of intestinal blockages if swallowed.

VOHC Seal of Acceptance: Our experts recommend choosing dental chews that carry the VOHC Seal of Acceptance for plaque, tartar, or both. The VOHC is a professional council of veterinary dentists and dental scientists overseen by the American Veterinary Dental College. It evaluates whether dental products for dogs and cats effectively remove plaque and tartar when used as directed.

Although VOHC acceptance is considered the gold standard for dental chews, a lack of the seal doesn’t automatically mean a product is ineffective. That’s because the product might not have undergone evaluation yet, says Dr. Maria Soltero-Rivera, a board-certified veterinary dentist and an assistant professor of dentistry and oral surgery at UC Davis College of Veterinary Medicine. However, Goldschmidt says that chews with the VOHC seal have been shown to remove at least 20% — and often closer to 40% — of existing plaque, tartar, or both.

Size: It’s important to choose a dental chew that matches your dog’s size. Avoid treats that are excessively large for small dogs and too small for large dogs. Treats that are too large can be difficult for small dogs to chew, while chews that are too small for large dogs may be swallowed whole. The weight recommendations on the package are usually a good indicator of whether a treat is appropriate for your dog, but Goldschmidt says you should always monitor your pet to ensure they don’t swallow a poorly sized chew.

Ingredients: Always review the ingredient list — which should be easy to find on the product’s packaging — for anything that could be harmful to your dog. The most crucial thing to do when evaluating any dog dental product is to make sure it’s fluoride-free, says Soltero-Rivera. Fluoride is extremely toxic to dogs, and exposure can be fatal. You should also avoid products containing artificial sweeteners such as xylitol. If your dog has known food sensitivities or allergies, carefully scan the label for those ingredients. Some dental chews also include added supplements, such as vitamins and omega fatty acids, which may provide additional health benefits

Calories and feeding directions: Check the nutrition information and feeding instructions on the package. Dental chews tend to be more calorie-dense than regular treats, so stick to giving your dog only one a day to avoid overfeeding. If you’re unsure about portioning or frequency, your veterinarian can help you determine what’s best for your dog.

How we selected the best dog dental chews and treats

We selected dental chews and treats based on VOHC acceptance, the criteria outlined in the “What to look for” section above, and the advice of veterinary dental experts.

Our experts include diplomates of the American Veterinary Dental College, the certifying organization for veterinary dentists in North America and a sponsor of the VOHC. These diplomates include Dr. Nadine Fiani, an associate clinical professor in the section of dentistry and oral surgery at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine; Dr. Stephanie Goldschmidt, an assistant professor of dentistry and oral surgery at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine; Dr. Brenda Mulherin, a clinical professor at Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine; and Dr. Maria Soltero-Rivera, assistant professor of dentistry and oral surgery at UC Davis College of Veterinary Medicine. We also interviewed Dr. Dwight Alleyne, a senior associate veterinarian at Petfolk and an expert at JustAnswer.

Dog dental chews FAQs

What dental chews work best for dogs?

The most effective dental chews are designed to physically scrape plaque from the teeth as your dog chews them. They should be firm, large enough that it takes time for your dog to chew them, rather than swallowing them quickly. This chewing action mimics brushing, which is the most effective way to remove plaque before it hardens into tartar. That said, even the best dog dental chews shouldn’t take the place of daily toothbrushing, which Soltero-Rivera says is the most important aspect of at-home dental care. Dental chews and treats are most effective when used in conjunction with a consistent brushing routine.

Do dental chews really work for dogs?

Yes. Dental chews accepted by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) have been shown to reduce plaque and tartar buildup. However, they’re not nearly as effective as brushing your dog’s teeth with a toothbrush. Experts recommend brushing your dog’s teeth daily to help prevent periodontal disease, while using dental chews as a supplement to brushing and professional cleanings. They also recommend consulting with your veterinarian to determine how often your dog needs professional dental cleanings, which may range from several times a year to once a year.

What can happen if you don’t clean your dog’s teeth?

Without regular dental care, plaque and tartar can build up on your dog’s teeth, leading to gum inflammation (gingivitis) and periodontal disease. Periodontal disease damages the tissues that hold teeth in place. As it advances, it can cause gums to recede, tooth loss, and even bone damage, Fiani says. The good news is that daily brushing, dental chews, and routine professional cleanings can help prevent periodontal disease.”Periodontal disease is preventable,” says Goldschmidt. “It takes some work at home and setting them up with a professional plan.”

Are dental chews healthy for dogs?

Yes. Dental chews can be a healthy treat that helps with plaque removal. However, many of these chews are high in calories, so it’s important not to overdo it. Dog treats, including dental chews, should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. It’s also best to select chews with guidance from your veterinarian to make sure they’re a good fit for your dog.

Sophia Carlisle

Editorial Fellow