How to choose dog dental chews
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
Choose a dental chew that matches your dog’s size, chewing style, and health needs, look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of approval, avoid hard materials that can crack teeth, and pick a treat with a texture that scrubs as your dog bites.
What should you look for in a safe dog dental chew?
Safety comes first. Look for a chew that is neither too hard nor too brittle. A good rule of thumb: if you cannot make a small dent in the treat with your fingernail, it may be hard enough to fracture a tooth. The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal is a reliable indicator that a product has been tested for plaque and tartar reduction. Avoid rawhide-based chews that can break into sharp pieces or swell in the stomach. Instead, look for digestible options made from starches, proteins, or vegetable fibers. Always supervise your dog the first few times to see how they handle the chew, and discard any piece small enough to swallow whole.
How do dental chews actually clean teeth?
Most dental chews work by mechanical abrasion: as the dog chews, the textured surface rubs against the teeth and gums, scraping off plaque before it hardens into tartar. Some treats also contain enzymes (like glucose oxidase) or polyphosphates that help break down plaque chemically or reduce calculus formation. Not all chews are equally effective. Those that are VOHC-accepted have been shown in controlled studies to reduce plaque or tartar by a meaningful amount, typically 10-20% with daily use. However, they cannot reach between teeth or below the gumline, so they are a supplement to brushing, not a replacement.
What size and texture is best for your dog?
Size matters: the chew should be large enough that your dog must chew it rather than swallow it whole. For small breeds, choose a treat about the length of your thumb. For large breeds, the treat should be longer than their muzzle. Many brands provide weight-based size guides, follow them. Texture depends on chewing style. Aggressive chewers need denser, longer-lasting textures that won’t crumble too fast. Gentle chewers do well with softer, ridged textures that still provide abrasion. Avoid excessively hard chews (like antlers or dense nylon) for power chewers, as they risk tooth fractures.
Are there ingredients you should avoid?
Watch out for artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors, which offer no benefit and may cause sensitivities in some dogs. Gelatin-based chews often contain added sugars or salt, check the label. For dogs with food allergies, choose single-source proteins or starch-based formulas. Also avoid chews with plastic or nylon that are not intended to be eaten; though they last long, they don’t provide the same antiseptic effect and can cause gastrointestinal blockages if pieces are swallowed. Stick with digestible or fully edible options unless you are using the chew solely for recreation under supervision.
How often should you give your dog a dental chew?
For best results, most VOHC-accepted chews recommend one treat per day. Giving them more frequently can add unnecessary calories, some dental chews contain as many calories as a quarter of your dog’s daily meal. Adjust your dog’s regular food portions to account for the extra energy. If your dog has dental disease or is a puppy with developing teeth, consult your veterinarian before starting a daily dental chew routine. For puppies, choose a softer, puppy-specific formula that won’t damage emerging adult teeth.
Do dental chews replace brushing?
No, dental chews are a helpful tool, but they cannot replace the mechanical scrubbing of a toothbrush. Brushing reaches the gumline and the inner surfaces of the teeth where chews rarely touch. The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends daily brushing as the gold standard for oral health. Think of dental chews as a convenient supplement: they help reduce plaque between brushings, freshen breath, and keep your dog occupied. If your dog refuses brushing, a high-quality dental chew paired with water additives or dental wipes can still make a meaningful difference.
Frequently asked questions
Are dental chews safe for puppies?
Some are, but only if labeled for puppies. Puppies under six months have sensitive adult teeth erupting, and hard chews can cause pain or damage. Look for extra-soft, puppy-specific formulas, and always supervise.
Can dental chews cause stomach upset?
Yes, especially if your dog eats them too quickly or is not used to the ingredients. Introduce a new chew gradually, start with half a treat every other day, and choose a product with limited, easy-to-digest ingredients.
How do I know if a dental chew is effective?
Check for the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal on the package. That seal means the product has undergone independent testing that showed a measurable reduction in plaque or tartar when used as directed.
What's the difference between edible and non-edible chews?
Edible chews are meant to be fully consumed and digested; they typically contain starches, proteins, or vegetable fibers. Non-edible chews (like nylon or rubber) are not digestible and are designed for long-lasting gnawing without being eaten. For dental health, edible chews are usually preferred because the act of breaking down the treat provides the abrasive cleaning action.
Should I give a dental chew to a dog with dental disease?
Talk to your vet first. Dogs with advanced periodontal disease, loose teeth, or painful gums should avoid hard chews that could cause bleeding or further damage. A soft, enzymatic dental gel or prescription dental diet may be a safer option.
Can I use dental chews with other dental care products?
Absolutely. Dental chews work well alongside daily brushing, water additives, and professional cleanings. Using multiple methods covers more tooth surfaces and helps keep your dog’s mouth healthier between vet visits.