dental-treats-really-work-hero.jpg

Do Dental Treats for Dogs Really Work?

Last Updated October 2024 

This article is written by Pet Circle veterinarian, Dr Belinda Stancombe BVSc in paid partnership with GREENIESTM brand.

Dental care is a crucial part of a dog's overall health, yet it's often overlooked by pet owners. Poor dental hygiene can lead to a range of health issues, including bad breath, gum disease, tooth loss, and even more serious conditions like heart disease. 

With the increasing awareness of oral health in pets, there is now a wide range of dog dental treats available as an easy solution to maintain your dog's oral health. 

So what is a dental treat and do they really work, or are they just a tasty snack?

Understanding Dental Health in Dogs

Many pet parents are shocked to learn that over 80% of dogs will develop some form of dental disease by the age of 3 years. 

Dental disease occurs when plaque and tartar build up on the teeth, which can lead to gingivitis, causing discomfort, redness, and swelling of the gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to irreversible periodontal disease, a more severe condition that affects the tissues surrounding the teeth, potentially resulting in tooth loss and infection. Dental disease can even cause damage to internal organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys. 

Regular dental prevention aims at preventing plaque build up which can lead to dental disease. Regular brushing is the gold standard, but not all dogs will tolerate having their teeth brushed. This is where dental treats are a good option to help fight dental disease.

 

How Do Dental Treats Work?

Dental treats are designed to clean a dog's teeth as they chew. Their texture, shape, and ingredients are formulated to reduce plaque and tartar buildup and freshen breath. 

Chewing on these treats encourages mechanical action, which can help reduce the accumulation of plaque and tartar. Additionally, the act of chewing stimulates saliva production, which is a natural defence against bacteria.

 

Are Dental Treats Effective?

Yes, dental treats can help keep your pet's teeth clean. The effectiveness of dental treats depends on a few factors:

  1. Chewing Action: The physical act of chewing helps mechanically scrape off plaque and tartar. This effectiveness can vary depending on how thoroughly your dog chews the treat. If they tend to eat the treat quickly, then they may not gain the full benefits.
  2. Texture and Shape: Dental treats like  GREENIESTM are crafted with a chewy texture and grooved design, allowing the teeth to sink into the treat more deeply. This increases the contact with the teeth, improving the mechanical cleaning process and maximising the removal of tartar.
  3. Treat Size: Selecting the recommended treat for your dog's size and weight is imperative in maximising the effectiveness of dental treats. If the treat is too small, your dog can eat them too quickly and they won't be effective.
  4. Consistency: Dental treats are most effective with consistent use, so it's recommended that they are given daily  to help reduce tartar buildup. Skipping days allows plaque to harden, forming tartar, which is more difficult to remove. 

 

 

How to choose the right dental treats for your dog

Dental treats can be a great addition to your dog's dental care routine, especially when paired with regular brushing and vet check-ups.  

When selecting a dental treat for your dog, look out for products that are certified by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) such as GREENIESTM. These products have undergone vigorous testing to demonstrate their effectiveness in removing plaque and tartar.  

Ensure the dental treats are the right size for your dog so that they chew the dental treat for a few minutes for optimal effectiveness. Large dogs need bigger dental treats that they can't eat too fast, and small dogs need dental treats that they can easily lift and fit into their mouths.

Also, you can try experimenting with different flavours of dental treats to find your dog's favourite or to offer some variety.  GREENIESTM provides a selection of flavours, including Original, Blueberry, Fresh, and Sweet Potato, to cater to diverse preferences.

Remember, giving a dental treat each day promotes a healthy mouth, which leads to a healthier dog overall!