Are Dental Treats For Dogs Effective?

If you're a dog owner, chances are you've heard about dental treats. They promise fresher breath, cleaner teeth, and happier pups—but are dental treats for dogs effective? That's the big question we’re diving into today. With so many options on the shelves, from natural dog dental chews to processed sticks full of ingredients you can barely pronounce, it’s important to understand what’s actually going into your dog’s mouth and whether it’s doing them any good.

Let’s explore everything you need to know about dental chews, from how they work to what to avoid, and how to keep your dog’s teeth clean naturally.

Dental treats for dogs are designed to help reduce plaque and tartar build-up as your dog chews. They come in various forms—sticks, chews, bones, and even crunchy biscuits—and many are shaped or textured to clean the teeth as your dog gnaws on them.

When your dog chews on these treats, the mechanical action of gnawing helps scrape off soft plaque before it hardens into tartar. Some dental treats are infused with enzymes or breath-freshening ingredients like parsley or mint, which can help neutralise bad breath. Others rely solely on their texture and ingredients to do the job.

However, not all dental treats are created equal. While some are genuinely helpful, others can be full of fillers, artificial preservatives, or even sugar—which is the last thing you want in your dog’s dental routine.

Natural dog dental chews are a great choice for pet parents who want to avoid overly processed products. These chews often consist of single-ingredient items like air-dried animal parts (think tracheas or buffalo skin), or are made from wholesome, plant-based recipes without synthetic additives.

Here are some of the key benefits of natural dental chews:

• Digestibility: Natural chews tend to be easier on your dog’s digestive system, especially if they’re grain free.

• Better ingredients: No artificial colours, preservatives, or added sugars.

• Functional chewing: They still offer that all-important mechanical chewing action that helps reduce tartar in dogs.

• Appeal: Many dogs find the flavour of natural chews more enticing than synthetic alternatives.

In addition to promoting cleaner teeth, natural chews can offer nutritional value—such as protein, collagen, or glucosamine—depending on the source.

Choosing the right dental treat can be overwhelming, but it’s important to be selective. Here’s what you should look for:

Good things to look for:

• Natural, recognisable ingredients

• Grain free dental sticks for dogs , especially for those with sensitivities

• No added sugars or sweeteners

• No artificial colours, flavours or preservatives

• Proper size and density to match your dog’s breed and chewing habits

Ingredients to avoid:

• Corn, wheat, and soy: Common allergens that offer little nutritional benefit

• Xylitol: A sweetener that is highly toxic to dogs

• Added sugars: Can lead to dental decay

• Chemical preservatives like BHA, BHT, or ethoxyquin

Remember, just because something is marketed as “dental” doesn’t mean it’s beneficial. Some treats contain ingredients that actively harm your dog’s dental and overall health.

At Bella’s Box, we’re passionate about dog health and that includes dental care. We prefer to keep things as close to nature as possible, and these are some of our top picks for natural dog dental chews:

• Tracheas: These are hollow, crunchy, and full of natural cartilage, which is great for joint health and dog oral hygiene routine.

• Buffalo head skin: Tough and long-lasting, this chew helps clean teeth naturally through grinding and gnawing. It’s great for powerful chewers.

• Scumbles Gnashers: These plant-based, grain free dental sticks for dogs are packed with natural ingredients and shaped to support oral health.

These options are excellent for reducing tartar in dogs while also being gentle on their tummies and free from artificial nasties.

While dental treats are a helpful tool, they shouldn’t be your dog’s only line of defence. A good dog oral hygiene routine includes several steps:

1. Daily brushing: Yes, you can brush your dog’s teeth! Use a dog-safe toothpaste and a soft brush.

2. Offer natural dental chews daily or several times per week.

3. Provide raw bones or suitable chews that help clean teeth naturally.

4. Regular vet checkups: Professional dental cleanings when needed.

Tips for consistency:

• Make treat time a daily ritual after walks or meals.

• Always supervise chewing to avoid choking.

• Rotate different types of chews to keep things interesting.

Dental treats work best when they’re part of a bigger picture. They can’t replace brushing, but they’re a valuable add-on.

So, are dental treats for dogs effective? The answer is yes—with some caveats.

The good:

• They encourage chewing, which is a natural way to reduce tartar and plaque.

• They can be tasty, enjoyable, and help freshen breath.

• Natural dog dental chews offer nutritional benefits as well as dental ones.

The not-so-good:

• Some mass-produced treats are full of poor-quality ingredients.

• Many are high in calories and can contribute to weight gain.

• They’re not a substitute for brushing or vet care.

Dental treats are worth including in your dog’s oral care routine— if you choose wisely. Stick to high-quality, natural options like buffalo head skin or Scumbles Gnashers, and use them alongside brushing and regular checkups.

With a thoughtful dog oral hygiene routine and the right chews, you’ll be well on your way to cleaner teeth and a healthier pup. It’s all about balance, quality, and making dental care a regular (and tasty!) part of your dog’s day.