Do Dental Chews for Dogs Work? Here’s What You Should Know
It is important to brush your dog’s teeth, even if he or she has a thing for clean breath, and why is that? Because clean breath equals overall dog health. Although dog chews are proving to be a suitable alternative to regular brushing, the question that arises is Do Dental Chews for Dogs Work?
Why Are Dog Dental Chews So Popular?
What happened to just brushing your dog’s teeth? Rootin’ toothin’ teeth wipes and strenuous periodic brushing have now made way for easy-to-use treats! That is right, no more whining and anguish of having your teeth brushed, it is now a smooth transition as this seems like a reward to the dogs.
While many claim these treats work, wishful thinking alone will not take us far. While chews claim to be effective in lowering the tartar and plaque dogs build, does it really do the job? Their uniquely shaped design and enhanced rosemary mix allow for ease in dog chews while assisting with tooth scrubbing.
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Do Dental Chews for Dogs Really Work?
So the answer to your question “Do dog dental chews work actually?” Yes, but there is a catch to it.
Dental chews are built to scrape and get rid of plaque and tartar which is the means of your dog biting down on them. Their texture and ingredients work to reduce bacteria and freshen bad breath. Nevertheless, they are not miracle workers. These factors can affect how effective they are to a very big extent:
- How often does your dog gnaw on them?
- Which kind of dental chew was applied?
- Their chewing style, for instance, some pooches will chew thoroughly while others will only gulp treats.
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How Do Dental Chews Work for Dogs?
Dental chews work similarly to a toothbrushes where they only use mechanical aid to remove plaque and there are also some that have added enzymes to eat bacteria and in conjunction, these make the chews far more effective. They are however best used alongside other forms of dental care.
How Often Should You Give Dental Chews to Your Dog?
Giving these dental chews in moderation is very key! You can give them out on a daily basis however, it can lead to overuse which may result in weight gain or even upset stomachs if you’re ever unsure if it’s appropriate to give daily or not, consult your Vet. Always watch out for the manufacturer’s guidelines.
For best results:
- For better chances of your dog’s health, check and look for the presence of VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) on the packaging as it has been approved by them.
- Use chews that are suitable for the size and chewing styles of your dog.
What To Consider Before Buying Dental Chews?
Dog treats and other dental chews will always differ in their fabrication. To ensure that you pick the best one for your dog, consider the following points:
- Ingredients: The dental chew you purchase should not have any artificial ingredients or too much sugar.
- Size and Texture: Depending on the dogs’ age and breed, the chew’s size and texture should be optimized. Failure to do this could result in choking hazards.
- Effectiveness: If the chew is VOHC-approved, it has been tested and proven to work.
Pros and Cons of Dental Chews
| Pros | Cons |
| Convenient and easy to use | Not a replacement for brushing |
| Helps reduce plaque and tartar | Effectiveness varies by dog |
| Encourages chewing behavior | May cause weight gain if overused |
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What Else You Can Do to Protect Your Dog’s Teeth?
Chews shouldn’t be your only option to maintain your dog’s dental care routine. You can pair them up with one or more of the following options:
- Tooth Brushing: This is a common and effective way where pet owners utilize a dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste and clean their dogs’ teeth on a regular basis.
- Raw Bones: They can be useful in certain situations but must be associated with supervision in order to prevent splintering.
- Dental Diets: Several dog food alternatives are manufactured so that the remaining tartar can be limited in dogs.
Breeds of Dogs, Their Teeth, and Different Types Of Oral Problems
Various dog breeds will suffer from dental problems due to numerous reasons. Chihuahuas and Yorkies are small breeds that tend to have a mouth full of teeth which leads to excessive tartar. Knowing the type of dog you have would assist in being proactive.
Common Signs of Dental Problems:
- A foul odor that is persistent will indicate an issue.
- If the gums appear to be swollen or are bleeding.
- A person’s exercise of eating hard food is done to a moderate extent.
Conclusion – Do Dental Chews for Dogs Work
So, do dental chews for dogs work? Yes, and they are great relatively speaking but only if used properly. Like any other dog product, they are of great help but only when partnered with a robust dental care plan. To ensure your pup’s teeth are shiny, combine chewing exercises with brushing, regular veterinary checkups, and proper nutrition.
After all, a happy dog starts with a healthy mouth!
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