Best Dog Dental Chews 2026: Vet-Recommended Options

Why Dental Chews Matter

Dental chews are one of the easiest ways to maintain your dog's oral health between brushings. The mechanical action of chewing scrapes away plaque and tartar, while many products contain ingredients that help reduce bacteria and freshen breath.

But not all dental chews are created equal. This guide helps you find truly effective options.

What Makes a Dental Chew Effective?

Key Features to Look For

VOHC Seal of Acceptance The Veterinary Oral Health Council tests products for plaque and tartar reduction. Look for the VOHC seal - it means the product actually works.

Appropriate Texture

• Firm enough to require chewing
• Not so hard it breaks teeth
• Lasts long enough to clean

Right Size

• Too small = choking hazard, swallowed whole
• Too large = can't chew properly
• Match to your dog's size

Top Recommended Dental Chews 2026

Best Overall: Greenies Original

Pros:

• VOHC accepted
• Multiple sizes available
• Dogs love the taste
• Easy to digest
• Added vitamins

Cons:

• Higher price point
• Some dogs eat too fast

Best for: Most dogs who chew appropriately

Best for Heavy Chewers: OraVet Dental Hygiene Chews

Pros:

• VOHC accepted
• Contains delmopinol (prevents plaque)
• Long-lasting
• Very effective

Cons:

• Premium price
• Limited flavor options

Best for: Dogs who destroy regular chews quickly

Best Budget Option: Milk-Bone Brushing Chews

Pros:

• VOHC accepted
• Affordable
• Widely available
• Dogs enjoy taste

Cons:

• Higher calorie count
• Less durable than premium options

Best for: Budget-conscious owners with typical chewers

Best for Small Dogs: Whimzees Dental Treats

Pros:

• VOHC accepted
• Vegetarian/vegan
• Fun shapes
• Long-lasting
• Small sizes available

Cons:

• Not for power chewers
• Higher price per treat

Best for: Small breeds, dogs with food sensitivities

Best Natural Option: Blue Buffalo Dental Bones

Pros:

• No artificial preservatives
• Multiple sizes
• Good ingredients
• Dogs love flavor

Cons:

• Not VOHC certified
• Softer texture

Best for: Owners preferring natural products

How to Choose the Right Dental Chew

By Dog Size

By Chewing Style

Gentle Chewers:

• Can use softer chews
• More options available
• Watch for swallowing whole

Normal Chewers:

• Most products work well
• Match size to dog

Power Chewers:

• Need durable options
• Avoid anything too hard (breaks teeth)
• Supervise always

By Health Considerations

Weight Management:

• Choose low-calorie options
• Count toward daily calories
• Consider smaller sizes

Food Sensitivities:

• Limited ingredient options
• Grain-free if needed
• Novel proteins

Dental Disease:

• Softer options if mouth is sore
• Consult vet first
• May need treatment before chews help

Safety Guidelines

DO:

• Supervise chewing sessions
• Choose appropriate size
• Limit to 1 per day
• Account for calories
• Store properly
• Check for VOHC seal

DON'T:

• Leave dog alone with chew
• Give too-small chews (choking risk)
• Use as meal replacement
• Give to dogs who swallow whole
• Use hard bones/antlers (break teeth)

Warning Signs to Stop

• Dog trying to swallow whole
• Pieces breaking off in large chunks
• Gagging or choking
• Bloody gums after chewing
• Loss of interest (may indicate mouth pain)

Dental Chews vs. Other Options

Best approach: Combine multiple methods for optimal oral health.

How Often to Give Dental Chews

Daily: Maximum benefit, most products designed for daily use

Every Other Day: Good results, better for calorie management

2-3 Times Weekly: Some benefit, minimum recommended

Calories Matter

Dental chews contain calories that count toward daily intake:

Rule of thumb: Treats (including dental chews) should be less than 10% of daily calories.

What About DIY Options?

Safe Natural Alternatives

• Raw carrots (low calorie, crunchy)
• Apple slices (no seeds)
• Frozen banana pieces

Not Recommended

• Cooked bones (splinter)
• Antlers (too hard)
• Rawhide (digestive issues)
• Ice cubes (can break teeth)

Monitoring Effectiveness

Use Nerovet AI to track whether dental chews are working:

• Monthly scans to check tartar levels
• Compare before and after starting
• Adjust if not seeing improvement

Check Your Dog's Teeth →

Upload a photo to see if your current dental care routine is working.

Complete Dental Care Routine

For best results, combine approaches:

Daily:

• Brush teeth (or every other day)
• One dental chew

Weekly:

• Check teeth visually
• Note any changes

Monthly:

• AI dental scan
• Assess routine effectiveness

Annually:

• Professional vet dental exam
• Cleaning if recommended

Bottom Line

Dental chews are a valuable tool but work best as part of a complete dental care routine. Look for VOHC-approved products, choose the right size, and always supervise.

Your dog's dental health is worth the investment.

See How Your Dog's Teeth Are Doing →

Get a free AI assessment to know if your dental care routine is working.

---

This article is for informational purposes. Consult your veterinarian for personalized dental care recommendations for your dog.