Do Dog Chew Brushes Work?

Why Are Dental Chews for Dogs So Popular?

As puppy parents, we know that good oral health is essential to a dog's long-term health, and we're always on the lookout for new time-saving tricks. While brushing is one of the most effective ways to prevent our furry friends from developing periodontal disease (or the unsightly buildup of plaque, tartar, and inflamed gums), they often don't appreciate our efforts to keep their mouths healthy.

That's why dental chews for dogs, as well as treats and bars, have become increasingly popular in recent years. There are a lot of products on the market that claim to help keep your dog's teeth clean. But before you get overwhelmed, let's review these oral health products to determine if they're really worth the money.

Are Dental Chews for Dogs Good for My Pet?

There's no one clear answer as to whether dental chews are effective. They can help keep your dog's teeth clean, and the dry kibble gives your dog a satisfying chew in his mouth - and it tastes delicious. While well-designed chews can reduce the buildup of tartar and plaque, they're not a replacement for regular brushing and professional dental cleanings - just an extra tool.

Feel free to use dental chews to supplement your dog's oral care routine - just like we sometimes chew sugar-free gum to keep our breath fresh, but we wouldn't use it in place of regular brushing or visits to the dentist.

Before buying a dog dental chew that claims to support dental health, consider the following:

Look for durable chew products, such as nylon, rawhide, knuckle bones, or rubber chew toys (watch these closely and throw them away if your dog chews so much that they pose a choking hazard).
Make sure any treats or chews you offer aren't too hard, as they can damage your dog's teeth. Hoofs, antlers, and bones are likely to cause problems.
Find out how many calories are in your pup's dental chews - you don't want to be dealing with weight issues while trying to reduce dental problems.
Be skeptical of any claims that certain products can help with dental health. Check the Veterinary Oral Health Council's product recommendation list to see which products are worth the money.
Remember to schedule your pet's regular oral exams and dental cleanings at the veterinarian's office.

How much time should my dog spend chewing?

Allow your dog about 30 minutes a day to chew to get the most benefit from their dental chews.

A Note on Dog Breeds, Teeth, and Oral Health Issues
If you have a small breed, or your canine friend's jaw is full of teeth, be aware - plaque and tartar are more likely to grow in hidden places, no matter how much effort is put into chewing.

An old-fashioned toothbrush has bristles that can reach below the gum line and be used to brush or scrape away bacteria that can cause periodontal disease.

Remember that your dog's immune system, age, medical history, and breed can affect his health and determine whether he will develop dental problems. That's why routine health checks with your dog by a qualified veterinarian are necessary.

The Bottom Line

While some dental chews are effective for dogs, they are not a substitute for regular brushing or a professional dental care routine. These good oral health routines should be kept on your dog's calendar so that their teeth stay in good shape.