Dental Chews for Dogs: Expert Tips on Choosing the Right Treats

Just like humans, dogs require proper oral care to maintain good health. While regular teeth brushing is crucial, it is not always a pleasant experience for your furry friend, especially if not introduced early-on in life. That is where dental chews for dogs come in – they are a tasty and effective way to supplement your pet's dental care routine, preventing dental disease, plaque, tartar, and bad breath. Let us take you through the process of choosing the right dental chews for your canine companion. Firstly it is important to note that not all chews are designed for dental hygiene. Hence it is vital to check specifically for dental hygiene chews for your pet’s dental well-being.

1. Pick the Type of Dog Dental Chew

When it comes to dental chews, variety is abundant. There are different textures, shapes, and qualities to consider based on your dog's age, chewing behaviours, and overall dental health. Avoid dental chews for puppies because it may lead to accidental choking. Avoid dental chews that are rich in animal fat and calories. While animal fats enhance the yummy factor, since these chews have to be given on a daily basis, it may contribute to an over-intake of calories and weight gain in the long run. Dental chews may often contain add-on ingredients for additional health gains such as ingredients like inulin for digestive support. These are worth considering!

If your pet shows signs of advanced dental disease such as bleeding gums or dropping food whilst chewing, then clearly opting for a dental chew is not advisable. At this stage, a vet’s intervention is a must!

The chosen dental chew should not only satisfy their natural urge to chew, but also effectively clean their teeth.

2. Read the Label of the Dog Dental Chew

Understanding the ingredients in your dog's dental chews is crucial for their overall well-being. Look for vet-recommended dental chews with high-quality, natural ingredients. Avoid products containing generic or unrecognizable names, as well as any ingredients that may trigger stomach sensitivities or allergies in your pet.
Additionally, check the manufacturing locations to ensure they adhere to strict industry standards and regulations. A seal of acceptance from the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) is a good indicator of a reliable product.

3. Check the Size of the Dog Dental Chew

Dental chews for dogs come in various sizes to match your pet's body weight, jaw strength, daily caloric intake and mouth size. Selecting the right size chew helps ensure the chew reaches all corners of the mouth and interacts sufficiently with the teeth to clean it appropriately. The appropriate size should also ensure that the dental chew lasts an adequate amount of time for your pet, making it effective at cleaning their teeth.

Check out VEGGIEDENT FR3SH™ by Virbac

For a safe and effective dental chew option, consider VEGGIEDENT^® FR3SHTM by Virbac. This vet-recommended dental chew utilizes a unique FR3SH™ technology to target bad breath, remove plaque and tartar from the dog's teeth surfaces and additionally support digestive health. The innovative Z-shape enhances chewing action, aids mechanical cleaning, and promotes gum health.

As the name suggests, VEGGIEDENT^® FR3SHTM is a completely vegetarian dental chew, hence is low on calories making it ideal for daily consumption.

To Conclude

Your dog's dental care involves making informed choices when selecting dental chews. Prioritize the appropriate type, read labels carefully, and choose the correct size. Look for VOHC-approved dental cleaning treats and avoid potentially harmful options. Lastly, keep an eye on your pet as they enjoy their treats, chews, and toys to ensure their safety and well-being.

At Virbac, we understand that your pet's health is a top priority. By following these expert tips on dog teeth cleaning treats, you can ensure that your furry friend enjoys safe, healthy, and approved dental chews for optimal oral care.