You go to a pet store and you see rows and rows of dental chews for your dog, but are they actually good for them and their teeth? Our Clarksville veterinarians explain if dog dental chews are worth purchasing, which factors to consider when purchasing, and the safety tips every dog owner should keep in mind.
Do dental treats work for dogs?
As pup parents, we know that good oral health is critical to our dogs’ long-term health, and we’re always looking for new tips to save time. Though tooth brushing is one of the most effective methods to keep our furry friends from getting periodontal disease (or an ugly buildup of plaque, tartar and inflamed gums), they don’t usually appreciate our efforts to keep their mouths healthy.
That’s why dog dental chews, along with treats and sticks, have been growing in popularity in recent years. There are a lot of choices out there for products that purport to help keep your dog’s teeth clean. But before you get overwhelmed, let’s review some of these oral healthcare products to identify whether they are actually worth the cost.
How do dog dental chews work?
Are dental chews good for dogs? Do they work? These questions can be thorny ones. Dental chews can help improve your dog's dental health by reducing plaque and tartar buildup, preventing bad breath, and promoting healthy gums. Additionally, they can provide mental stimulation and entertainment for your dog while also satisfying their natural urge to chew.
But while properly designed chews do have the potential to reduce plaque and tartar buildup, they’re not a stand-in for routine dental cleanings. Think of them more as supplements to your dog’s regular oral care routine – kind of like how we sometimes chew sugar-free gum to keep our breath fresh, but we wouldn’t expect that to replace regularly brushing our teeth or visiting the dentist.
There are a few things to consider before buying dog dental chews that claim to support dental health:
- Be skeptical of claims that certain products are supportive of dental health.
- Ensure any chews or treats you give your dog are not too hard, as they can fracture teeth. Antlers, bones, and hooves are likely culprits.
- 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.
- Don’t forget to schedule your pet’s routine oral exam and dental cleanings with your vet.
- Look for long-lasting chew products, such as knucklebone, rawhide, nylon, or rubber chew toys (keep a watchful eye on these and toss it if your dog gnaws it down enough for it to become a choking hazard).
Can puppies have dental chews?
You can offer your puppy dental chews once they are six months old. It is not recommended to offer chew sticks for puppies under three months as it may be a choking hazard.
How long should my dog spend chewing?
In order to get the maximum benefit out of their dental chews, give it to your dog about for about 30 minutes every day.
A Note About Dog Breeds, Teeth and 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.
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.