What are Dental Chews?
So, what are dog dental chews? Dental chews are treats designed to clean your dog’s teeth and massage their gums. This helps to reduce plaque and tartar build-up, which can lead to gum disease. Not all dog dental treats are created equal, though. It is important to learn what makes a dental chew right for your dog.
What To Look For In Dog Dental Chews
There are a lot of different products that claim they are the best dental chews for dogs, but how do you know what claims are true and what claims are just made up to get you to buy products? Let us break down what to look for in dog dental chews.
VOHC Registered Seal
VOHC stands for Veterinary Oral Health Council, and they are a group that recognizes products that meet pre-set standards of plaque and calculus (tartar) retardation in dogs and cats. Their seal is displayed on products that are recognized as high-quality and effective dental products for cats and dogs.
Cleaning Power
Every product is different, and that includes the effective cleaning power a dental chew may have. Even products with the VOHC seal will differ in effectiveness for your pet. It is always a good idea to ask your veterinarian for recommendations on what chews they notice have effective cleaning power.
Edibility
There are both edible and non-edible dental chews on the market, and the dividing factor between them will come down to the individual preference of each pet. If your pet is a picky eater, they might not enjoy edible chews, so opting for a non-edible chew that provides teeth cleaning while the dog gnaws on it is the way to go. If your dog likes treats, an edible dental chew can kill two birds with one stone!
Flavor
Like most other types of treats, Dental chews come in a variety of flavors, so make sure to pick one that your pet loves.
Durability
If you opt for a non-edible dental chew, make sure that it is durable enough to stand up to your pet’s gnawing.
Size
The final consideration to make when choosing an appropriate pet dental chew is size. Make sure you get a chew that is proportionate to your pet’s size.
What Are The Benefits of Dental Chews for Dogs?
Many pet owners are concerned about the state of their dog’s teeth. In addition to being unsightly, poor dental health can lead to several problems, including gum disease, tooth loss, and even infection. Fortunately, dental chews are specially designed to help remove plaque and tartar from teeth, and they also help to massage the gums and reduce inflammation. As a result, regular use of dental chews can help to keep your dog’s teeth healthy and prevent serious health issues down the road. On top of preventing disease, they also have the bonus of freshening up your pup’s breath!
Continental Animal Wellness Center’s Recommended Pet Dental Chews
Your pet’s dental health is very important to its overall quality of life. That is why it is always a good idea to seek the advice of a trusted veterinarian. They will know the most trusted brands, effective products, and the best match for your pet. If you do not know where to start, we at Continental Animal Wellness Center have provided some options we recommend.
Greenies™
Greenies for dogs are accepted by the VOHC and are a great fit for many pets. They are an edible treat that can be found in a variety of sizes. However, some dogs may have sensitivities to the original formula as it contains wheat.
Purina DentaLife
Purina Dentalife is another trusted product by the VOHC. They are effective at freshening your dog’s breath on top of reducing tartar build-up. They even refrain from using artificial colors or flavors!
C.E.T. Veggiedent
C.E.T. Veggiedent is a plant-based dental chew that comes in a variety of sizes. These dental sticks clean teeth and freshen breath, as well as support your pet’s gut health with a prebiotic known to boost proper digestion and maintain intestinal health.
Clenz-A-Dent Dental Sticks
Clenz-A-Dent Dental Sticks help reduce dental plaque by scraping teeth clean. These dental sticks for dogs come in small, medium, and large sizes and have a taste that most dogs cannot resist! They also contain R-2 to help reduce biofilm accumulating on your dog’s teeth.
How Often to Clean Your Dog’s Teeth
Looking out for your dog’s oral health is important. Frequent cleaning is recommended to keep up with preventative care. Many vets recommend teeth cleaning for dogs daily. It is important to remember that if you are using edible dental sticks for dogs, then they should be factored into your pup’s daily calorie considerations.
Don’t Forget Regular Dental Cleanings
On top of regular, at-home cleanings, it is important to bring your dog to your veterinarian for a professional cleaning and checkup. Depending on the breed of your dog, you should think about getting their teeth checked once or twice a year.
If you have any questions about pet dental health, Continental Animal Wellness Center is here to help! Our staff is full of experts who would be glad to answer any questions you have. Contact us today!