Best Teeth Cleaning Treats for Dogs: Top Picks for Fresh Breath and Healthy Teeth

Dental hygiene is essential for dogs, and regular teeth cleaning is a significant part of it. While brushing your dog’s teeth is the most effective way to keep them clean, it’s not always easy. This is where teeth cleaning treats come in handy. These treats help remove plaque and tartar buildup, freshen breath, and promote healthy teeth and gums.

When it comes to choosing the best teeth cleaning treats for your furry friend, there are a few things to consider. First, the ingredients should be safe and healthy for your dog to consume. Second, the treat should be appropriately sized for your dog’s breed and age. Finally, the treat should effectively clean your dog’s teeth and freshen their breath.

After researching and testing various teeth cleaning treats for dogs, we have identified the top options that meet these criteria. In this article, we’ll share our findings on the best teeth cleaning treats for dogs that will keep your pup’s teeth healthy and their breath fresh.

Best Teeth Cleaning Treats for Dogs

We all want our furry friends to have healthy teeth and gums, but brushing their teeth every day can be a challenge. That’s where teeth cleaning treats come in. These treats are not only delicious, but they also help remove plaque and tartar buildup, freshen breath, and promote overall dental health. After researching and testing different products, we have compiled a list of the best teeth cleaning treats for dogs.

1. WHIMZEES by Wellness Small Dental Chews for Dogs

Best teeth cleaning treats for dogs: top picks for fresh breath and healthy teeth

If you’re looking for a convenient, effective and playful way to clean your dog’s teeth, WHIMZEES dental chews are a great option. They’re made with all natural, gluten free, hypoallergenic, non-GMO and vegetarian ingredients with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. They’re also veterinarian recommended and VOHC accepted (Veterinary Oral Health Council).

Pros

  • These dental chews clean teeth, freshen breath and reduce tartar and plaque.
  • They last 3 times longer than leading competitors for more cleaning time per treat.
  • They’re made with all natural, gluten free, hypoallergenic, non-GMO and vegetarian ingredients with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

Cons

  • Some dogs may not be interested in the taste or texture of the chews.
  • They may not be suitable for dogs with very sensitive teeth or gums.
  • They can be more expensive than other dental chews on the market.

We’ve been using WHIMZEES dental chews for our small dog for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in her dental health. She loves the taste and texture of the chews, and they keep her teeth clean and her breath fresh. We also appreciate that they’re made with all natural, gluten free, hypoallergenic, non-GMO and vegetarian ingredients with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

The chews are easy to give to our dog – we just give her one chew a day as a treat. They last longer than other dental chews we’ve tried, which means more cleaning time per treat. We also like that they’re veterinarian recommended and VOHC accepted (Veterinary Oral Health Council), which gives us peace of mind that they’re a safe and effective option for our dog.

Overall, we would definitely recommend WHIMZEES dental chews to other dog owners looking for a convenient and effective way to clean their dog’s teeth. They may be more expensive than other dental chews on the market, but we think the quality and effectiveness of the product is worth the extra cost.

2. Pedigree DENTASTIX Large Dog Dental Care Treats Original, Beef & Fresh Variety Pack

Best teeth cleaning treats for dogs: top picks for fresh breath and healthy teeth

If you’re looking for a tasty treat that also helps maintain your dog’s dental health, the Pedigree DENTASTIX Large Dog Dental Care Treats Original, Beef & Fresh Variety Pack might be just what you need.

Pros

  • The unique X-shape design helps to reduce plaque and tartar buildup, promoting better oral health.
  • The variety pack contains three different flavors, so you can switch things up and keep your dog interested.
  • These treats are designed specifically for large breed dogs, so they’re the perfect size for your furry friend.

Cons

  • These treats might not be as effective for smaller breeds, as they’re designed for large dogs.
  • Some dogs might not enjoy the taste of these treats, so it might take some trial and error to find the right flavor.
  • These treats are not a substitute for regular brushing and dental care, so you’ll still need to take your dog to the vet for checkups.

We’ve been using these treats for a few weeks now, and we’ve definitely noticed an improvement in our dog’s dental health. The unique shape of the treats helps to clean teeth and massage gums, which is especially important for large breed dogs who are prone to dental problems. Plus, the variety pack is a great way to keep things interesting and prevent your dog from getting bored with the same treat every day.

One thing to keep in mind is that these treats are designed specifically for large breed dogs, so they might not be as effective for smaller breeds. Additionally, some dogs might not enjoy the taste of these treats, so you might need to try a few different flavors before finding the right one. And while these treats are a great way to maintain your dog’s dental health, they’re not a substitute for regular brushing and dental care, so make sure you’re still taking your dog to the vet for checkups.

Overall, we’re really happy with the Pedigree DENTASTIX Large Dog Dental Care Treats Original, Beef & Fresh Variety Pack, and we would definitely recommend them to other dog owners looking for a tasty way to maintain their pet’s dental health.

3. Minties VetIQ Dog Dental Bone Treats

Best teeth cleaning treats for dogs: top picks for fresh breath and healthy teeth

If you want to keep your dog’s teeth healthy and clean, Minties VetIQ Dog Dental Bone Treats are a great choice.

Pros

  • Freshens breath with natural breath fresheners
  • Vet recommended for daily dental care
  • Helps control tartar and plaque build-up

Cons

  • May not be suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs
  • Not all dogs may enjoy the taste
  • May not be as effective as professional dental cleaning

We’ve been using Minties VetIQ Dog Dental Bone Treats for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s oral health. The unique shape and texture of these treats help rub teeth clean, while our dog chews. We also appreciate that these treats contain natural breath fresheners like alfalfa, parsley, fennel dill, and peppermint.

Our vet recommended these dental chews for daily dental care, and we’ve been happy with the results. Our dog seems to enjoy the taste, although we’ve heard from other dog owners that not all dogs may like the flavor. Additionally, we’ve noticed that these treats help control tartar and plaque build-up, which is important for maintaining good oral health.

However, we do want to note that these treats may not be suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs, as they contain some ingredients that may cause digestive issues. Additionally, while these treats are effective for at-home dental care, they may not be as effective as professional dental cleaning.

Overall, we would recommend Minties VetIQ Dog Dental Bone Treats for any dog owner looking to improve their dog’s oral health. They’re a convenient and effective way to freshen breath, control tartar and plaque build-up, and promote good oral health.

4. Pedigree Dentastix Fresh Flavor Dental Bones

Best teeth cleaning treats for dogs: top picks for fresh breath and healthy teeth

If you’re looking for a treat that will improve your dog’s oral hygiene, then the Pedigree Dentastix Fresh Flavor Dental Bones might be a good option.

Pros

  • The unique X-shape design of these dental chews is clinically proven to reduce plaque and tartar buildup
  • The fresh mint flavor is a hit with small dogs and toy dogs
  • These dental treats are specially designed for adult toy and small breed dogs weighing between 5-20 lbs

Cons

  • Some dogs may not be overly enthusiastic about these treats
  • The available sizes might not be suitable for all dogs
  • The effectiveness of these treats may vary depending on your dog’s individual needs

We’ve been giving our little dog these treats for a while now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in her dental health. The chewy texture and unique shape of the treats help to clean her teeth and freshen her breath. Plus, she seems to really enjoy the fresh mint flavor.

One thing to keep in mind is that these treats may not be suitable for all dogs. Some dogs may not be interested in them, and the available sizes might not be suitable for larger breeds. Additionally, the effectiveness of these treats may vary depending on your dog’s individual needs.

Overall, we would recommend the Pedigree Dentastix Fresh Flavor Dental Bones to anyone looking for a treat that can help improve their dog’s oral hygiene. With regular use, these treats can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup and promote better dental care for your furry friend.

5. Nylabone Nutri Dent Dog Dental Treats

Best teeth cleaning treats for dogs: top picks for fresh breath and healthy teeth

If you are looking for a natural and highly digestible dental treat for your furry friend, then Nylabone Nutri Dent Dog Dental Treats may be a great choice for you.

Pros

  • The 360-degree scrubbing nubs help clean teeth and freshen breath, making it an effective dental care solution.
  • The limited-ingredient formula makes it a safe and healthy treat for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies.
  • The fresh breath flavor satisfies your dog’s taste buds while also promoting fresh breath.

Cons

  • The treats are very tiny, so they may not be suitable for larger dogs who need a bigger chew.
  • Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the treat.
  • The treats may cause tummy issues for some dogs if they are given in excess.

We have used Nylabone Nutri Dent Dog Dental Treats for our furry friend, and we were happy with the results. The dental nubs helped clean our dog’s teeth and freshen his breath, and he enjoyed the fresh breath flavor.

The limited-ingredient formula made us feel confident that we were giving our dog a safe and healthy treat, and we appreciated that it was made in the USA with natural ingredients.

However, we did notice that the treats were quite small, so they may not be suitable for larger dogs who need a bigger chew. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the treat, so it may take some trial and error to find out if it’s a good fit for your furry friend.

Overall, we would recommend Nylabone Nutri Dent Dog Dental Treats to dog owners who are looking for a natural and effective dental care solution for their furry friends.

6. WAG Dental Dog Treats

Best teeth cleaning treats for dogs: top picks for fresh breath and healthy teeth

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to keep your dog’s teeth clean and freshen their breath, WAG Dental Dog Treats are a great option.

Pros

  • The abrasive texture helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup through chewing.
  • The non-GMO, non-BPA packaging contains no added grain, corn, wheat, artificial colors, flavors, or poultry by-products.
  • Made in Minnesota, USA, at a family-owned facility.

Cons

  • Not recommended for dogs under 5 lbs. or less than 6 months old.
  • Monitor your dog to ensure the treat is chewed sufficiently and prevent swallowing large chunks without chewing, which can lead to digestive upsets.
  • Only suitable as a treat, not a main source of food.

We’ve been using WAG Dental Dog Treats for a few weeks now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s dental health. The texture of the treat is abrasive enough to reduce plaque and tartar buildup, but not so hard that it damages their teeth.

The non-GMO, non-BPA packaging is a nice touch, and we appreciate that there are no added grains, corn, wheat, artificial colors, flavors, or poultry by-products. It’s also reassuring to know that the treats are made in a family-owned facility in Minnesota.

However, we do wish that the treats were suitable for dogs under 5 lbs. or less than 6 months old, as well as being able to use them as a main source of food. We also need to keep a close eye on our dog while they’re chewing the treat to ensure they don’t swallow large chunks without chewing.

Overall, we highly recommend WAG Dental Dog Treats for anyone looking for an affordable and effective way to keep their dog’s teeth clean and their breath fresh.

7. Greenies Original Dental Treats

Best teeth cleaning treats for dogs: top picks for fresh breath and healthy teeth

If you’re looking for a tasty treat that can also help keep your dog’s teeth clean, then the Greenies Original Dental Treats might be just what you need.

Pros

  • These treats are vet-recommended and accepted by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) for at-home oral care.
  • The unique texture of the Greenies chews cleans down to the gumline to fight plaque and tartar and freshen breath.
  • They are made with natural ingredients plus vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, making them a healthy addition to your dog’s diet.

Cons

  • Some dogs may not like the taste of these treats.
  • They can be a bit pricey compared to other dental treats on the market.
  • The recommended serving size may not be enough for larger dogs.

Our furry friend loves these dental treats, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in their oral health since we started giving them to him. The Greenies chews have a delightfully chewy texture that our dog can’t get enough of, and they leave his breath smelling fresh and clean. Plus, we love that they’re made with natural ingredients and are safe and easy to digest.

If you’re looking for a way to keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy, the Greenies Original Dental Treats are definitely worth considering.

8. Merrick Fresh Kisses Oral Care Dental Dog Treats

Best teeth cleaning treats for dogs: top picks for fresh breath and healthy teeth

If you’re looking for a natural, grain-free dental dog chew that helps clean your dog’s teeth and freshen their breath, Merrick Fresh Kisses Oral Care Dental Dog Treats might be a great option for your furry friend.

Pros

  • These dental dog chews are made with only 13 ingredients and are free of grains and potatoes.
  • The double-brush design with coconut oil helps clean your dog’s teeth and freshen their breath.
  • These soft dog treats are easily digestible and are perfect for extra small breed dogs weighing 5 to 10 pounds.

Cons

  • These dental dog chews might be more expensive than other dental dog treats on the market.
  • Some customers have reported issues with the size of the cubes being inconsistent.
  • While most dogs seem to enjoy the flavor, there is a chance that your dog might not like the taste.

In our experience, Merrick Fresh Kisses Oral Care Dental Dog Treats are a great option for small dogs who need a little extra help with their dental hygiene. The double-brush design with coconut oil helps clean our dog’s teeth and freshen their breath, and the fact that these chews are easily digestible is a big plus.

One thing to keep in mind is that these dental dog chews might be more expensive than other dental dog treats on the market. However, we think that the quality of the product justifies the price. Additionally, some customers have reported issues with the size of the cubes being inconsistent, so make sure to keep an eye on that.

Overall, we would recommend Merrick Fresh Kisses Oral Care Dental Dog Treats to anyone looking for a natural, grain-free dental dog chew that helps clean your dog’s teeth and freshen their breath.

9. ORAVET Dental Chews for Dogs

Best teeth cleaning treats for dogs: top picks for fresh breath and healthy teeth

If you’re looking for an easy way to keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy, ORAVET Dental Chews for Dogs are a great option.

Pros

  • Helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup
  • Contains delmopinol to protect against harmful bacteria
  • Tasty and easy to digest

Cons

  • More expensive than some other dental chews
  • May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
  • Some dogs may not like the taste

We’ve been using ORAVET Dental Chews for Dogs for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a real improvement in our dog’s dental health. The chews are easy to give – just one per day – and our dog loves the taste. They’re also easy to digest, so we haven’t had any issues with upset stomachs.

One thing we really appreciate about these chews is that they contain delmopinol, which helps protect against the bacteria that cause plaque, tartar, and bad breath. We’ve noticed a real improvement in our dog’s breath since we started using these chews, and our vet has commented on how clean our dog’s teeth look.

Of course, there are a few downsides to these chews. They’re more expensive than some other dental chews on the market, so they may not be the best option if you’re on a tight budget. Additionally, they may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions, so be sure to check with your vet before giving them to your dog. Finally, some dogs may not like the taste of these chews, so you may need to try a few different brands to find one that your dog likes.

Overall, we’re really happy with ORAVET Dental Chews for Dogs and would definitely recommend them to other pet owners. They’re a great way to keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy, and they taste great too!

10. Petlab Co. Dental Sticks

Best teeth cleaning treats for dogs: top picks for fresh breath and healthy teeth

If you’re looking for a treat that can help clean your dog’s teeth and freshen their breath, Petlab Co. Dental Sticks might be just what you need.

Pros

  • These dental chews help target build-up via the sticks abrasive and mechanical action, keeping your dog’s breath fresh.
  • They contain Chicory Root, which contains Inulin, an efficient prebiotic that helps your dog’s digestive system.
  • They are a tasty and effective dental treat that your dog will love.

Cons

  • They are a bit hard and may not be suitable for dogs with dental issues.
  • They may not be effective for dogs with severe dental problems.
  • They may not be suitable for dogs with food sensitivities.

We recently tried Petlab Co. Dental Sticks on our dog and were impressed with the results. Our dog’s breath was noticeably fresher, and we could see a difference in the cleanliness of their teeth.

The sticks are easy to use and take only 30 seconds a day to help maintain your dog’s oral health. They are made with high-quality ingredients from prime locations worldwide, so you can be sure that you’re investing in your dog’s health.

One thing to keep in mind is that the sticks are quite hard, so they may not be suitable for dogs with dental issues. Additionally, they may not be effective for dogs with severe dental problems. Finally, they may not be suitable for dogs with food sensitivities.

Overall, we would recommend Petlab Co. Dental Sticks to anyone looking for a tasty and effective way to support their dog’s dental health.

11. Yummy Combs Dog Dental Treats

Best teeth cleaning treats for dogs: top picks for fresh breath and healthy teeth

We highly recommend Yummy Combs Dog Dental Treats for anyone looking for a tasty and effective way to improve their dog’s oral hygiene.

Pros

  • The patented honeycomb design cleans teeth and gums more thoroughly than traditional dental treats.
  • The treats are packed with protein and other healthy nutrients to support your dog’s overall health.
  • They are tested and approved by veterinarians for safe consumption.

Cons

  • The treats may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.
  • Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the treats.
  • The treats are relatively expensive compared to other dental chews.

We were impressed by the effectiveness of Yummy Combs Dog Dental Treats in cleaning our dog’s teeth and freshening her breath. The unique honeycomb shape allowed for 360-degree cleaning and scrubbing action, reaching every tooth and gum line. Our dog also loved the taste of the treats and eagerly looked forward to her daily dental chew.

In addition to their dental benefits, Yummy Combs Dog Dental Treats are also packed with protein and other healthy nutrients to support your dog’s overall health. We appreciated the fact that they are made with natural ingredients and contain no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

Finally, we were reassured by the fact that Yummy Combs Dog Dental Treats are tested and approved by veterinarians for safe consumption. The wide design of the treats also helps to prevent choking and encourage longer chewing.

Overall, we believe that Yummy Combs Dog Dental Treats are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality dental chew for their furry friend.

12. Dingo Dental Twists

Best teeth cleaning treats for dogs: top picks for fresh breath and healthy teeth

If you’re looking for a dog treat that can help with your pup’s oral health, you should consider Dingo Dental Twists.

Pros

  • The irresistible chicken flavor makes it a delicious treat for your furry friend
  • The chewing action of the twists cleans your dog’s teeth and massages their gums
  • The resealable bag keeps the chews fresh

Cons

  • Some customers have reported that the treats caused stomach upset in their dogs
  • The twists may not last very long for heavy chewers
  • The packaging may vary, so you may not get the same bag design as pictured

We’ve been using Dingo Dental Twists for a while now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s breath and teeth. The twists are easy to give as a daily treat, and our dog loves the taste. We appreciate that the twists are made with real chicken and have added benefits for our dog’s oral health.

One thing to keep in mind is that the twists may not last very long for heavy chewers. If your dog tends to chew through treats quickly, you may need to give them more than one twist per day. Additionally, some customers have reported that the treats caused stomach upset in their dogs, so it’s important to monitor your pup’s reaction after giving them the twists.

Overall, we would recommend Dingo Dental Twists for any dog owner looking for a tasty treat that can also help with their dog’s oral health.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best teeth cleaning treats for your dog, there are a few factors to consider to ensure that you are getting a quality product that is safe and effective. Here are some features to look for when choosing a teeth cleaning treat:

Ingredients

It is important to read the ingredients list carefully to ensure that the product does not contain any harmful ingredients, such as artificial preservatives or colors. Look for products that use natural ingredients, such as fruits and vegetables, and avoid treats that contain sugar, corn syrup, or other sweeteners.

Texture

The texture of the treat is also important. Look for treats that are specifically designed to clean teeth, such as those with a rough texture or ridges. These treats can help remove plaque and tartar buildup from your dog’s teeth and gums.

Size and Shape

Choose a treat that is appropriate for the size of your dog. Treats that are too small can be a choking hazard, while treats that are too large may be difficult for your dog to chew. Additionally, consider the shape of the treat. Treats that are designed to be chewed on for a longer period of time can be more effective at cleaning teeth.

Brand Reputation

When choosing a teeth cleaning treat, it is important to choose a reputable brand that has a history of producing quality products. Look for brands that have positive reviews and are recommended by veterinarians.

By considering these factors, you can choose a teeth cleaning treat that is safe, effective, and enjoyable for your furry friend.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Greenies Dental Treats effective for cleaning dogs’ teeth?

Yes, Greenies Dental Treats are effective for cleaning dogs’ teeth. They are designed to clean teeth and freshen breath by removing plaque and tartar buildup. Greenies Dental Treats are also recommended by veterinarians for maintaining good dental health in dogs.

Which dental chews are best for senior dogs?

Senior dogs require dental chews that are soft and easy to chew. Some of the best dental chews for senior dogs include Zuke’s Z-Bone Dental Chew, Nylabone Dental Chew, and Blue Buffalo Dental Bones. These dental chews are designed to be gentle on senior dogs’ teeth and gums while still providing the necessary cleaning action.

What are the benefits of using Whimzees dental chews for dogs?

Whimzees dental chews are a great option for dogs because they are made with all-natural ingredients and are free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. They also have a unique shape and texture that helps to clean teeth and freshen breath. Whimzees dental chews are also highly digestible, making them a safe and healthy treat for dogs.

Is Virbac Dental Chews a good option for dogs with dental issues?

Yes, Virbac Dental Chews are a good option for dogs with dental issues. They are designed to clean teeth and freshen breath while also helping to reduce tartar buildup. Virbac Dental Chews are also available in different sizes and flavors, making them a great option for dogs of all ages and breeds.

Are VOHC Dental Chews recommended by veterinarians for dogs’ dental health?

Yes, VOHC Dental Chews are recommended by veterinarians for maintaining good dental health in dogs. VOHC Dental Chews are tested and approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council, which ensures that they are effective at cleaning teeth and reducing tartar buildup.

Can dental chews for dogs really remove plaque effectively?

Yes, dental chews for dogs can effectively remove plaque and tartar buildup. However, it is important to note that dental chews should not be used as a substitute for regular brushing and dental cleanings. Dental chews should be used as a supplement to a good dental hygiene routine to help maintain good dental health in dogs.