The 3 Best Dog Dental Chews: Complete Guide for Fur Parents

If you’re wondering what the best dog dental chews are for your furry friend, here’s the quick answer: the best dental chews are natural, digestible, and designed to remove plaque while promoting fresh breath and strong gums. They should suit your dog’s size, chewing strength, and diet. 

Whether you’re a new dog parent or just looking to upgrade your pet’s oral care, this guide explains why dental chews matter, how they work, and which types offer the best results for different breeds.

Why Dental Chews Matter for Dogs

Just like humans, dogs need daily oral hygiene. Without it, they can develop plaque buildup, bad breath, and even serious gum disease. Studies show that more than 80% of dogs have some form of dental issue by age three. That’s where dental chews become an essential part of your pet’s care routine.

Dental chews work by gently scraping away plaque and tartar as your dog gnaws. The right texture encourages chewing, which promotes saliva production, a natural defense against bacteria.

What Makes a Dental Chew “The Best”

Choosing the best dog dental chews depends on three main factors: safety, ingredients, and effectiveness.

1. Safe Ingredients

Avoid chews with artificial preservatives, excessive starch, or synthetic flavoring. Instead, look for natural protein sources like beef or pig ears. Natural ingredients not only taste better but are easier for your dog to digest.

For example, Natural Pig Ears from Optimal K9 Wellness are a high-protein, fully digestible option that supports oral health while giving dogs a satisfying chew.

2. Texture and Shape

The ideal dental chew should have a firm, slightly abrasive texture to help remove plaque but not so hard that it risks breaking teeth. Chews shaped with ridges or twists increase contact with teeth, making cleaning more effective.

If your dog is a strong chewer, consider Redbarn Meaty Bone 100% Beef Bone for long-lasting oral exercise. For moderate chewers, Redbarn Bully Twists Dog Chews offer a flavorful, safe, and effective way to keep teeth clean.

3. Digestibility and Nutrition

The best dog dental chews are easy to digest and made with minimal ingredients. Poor-quality chews can upset your pet’s stomach or cause blockages. Always check for limited, recognizable ingredients and avoid rawhide unless labeled digestible.

Top 3 Best Dog Dental Chew of 2025 from Optimal K9 Wellness

1. Live Pawsitively Pig Ears Dog Treats

Give your dog a treat that’s as wholesome as it is delicious. Live Pawsitively Pig Ears Dog Treats are 100% natural, chemical-free, and preservative-free, made for pet parents who care about what goes into their dog’s snacks. Unlike other brands, our pig ears are never bleached and are roasted, not smoked, keeping every chew flavorful and healthy.

Proudly made in the USA, these treats help clean your dog’s teeth and gums by gently scraping away plaque and food residue. Each pack includes four pig ears, perfect for dogs of all sizes, from small pups to senior dogs who prefer an easier chew.

Benefits of Pig Ears for Dogs

• Supports Oral Hygiene: Naturally cleans teeth and gums
• Keeps Dogs Engaged: A fun, satisfying chew that lasts
• Safe for All Ages: Great for delicate or older chewers
• Healthier Choice: Free from chemicals and preservatives

2. Redbarn Meaty Bone – Large

Treat your power chewer to something real and satisfying. The Redbarn Meaty Bone – Large is made from 100% natural beef bone, slow-cooked to lock in its rich, meaty flavor and nutrients. 

This single-ingredient chew has no artificial flavors, chemicals, or preservatives, making it a safe and healthy choice for your dog.

Every bite helps clean teeth, massage gums, and reduce plaque buildup, promoting better dental health. It’s the perfect way to keep your dog busy, relieve stress, and fight boredom, all while enjoying a natural, protein-packed chew that lasts.

How to Use

• Supervise Chewing: Always watch your dog while they chew to ensure safety.
  
• Use as a Treat or Distraction: Great for enrichment, quiet time, or during visits.
  
• Limit Chew Duration: Helps protect teeth from excessive wear.
  
• Store Properly: Keep in a cool, dry place for freshness and quality.
  

The Redbarn Meaty Bone offers long-lasting enjoyment that supports your dog’s physical and mental health. It’s more than a treat, it’s a natural, satisfying way to promote dental care, reduce stress, and keep your dog content every day.

3. Redbarn Bully Twists Dog Chews

The Redbarn Bully Twists Dog Chews stand out for their simplicity, safety, and irresistible flavor. They combine natural ingredients, dental benefits, and lasting satisfaction, making them one of the best choices for dogs who love to chew and deserve a wholesome treat.

 

How to Choose the Right Dental Chew for Your Dog

Match the Chew to Your Dog’s Size and Chewing Style

Small breeds need softer chews to avoid choking hazards, while large dogs benefit from thicker, sturdier ones. Observe your dog’s chewing style, some nibble, others go all-in!

Check the Ingredients

Look for chews free from rawhide, chemicals, or artificial coloring. Natural proteins are always best, especially those high in amino acids and low in fat.

Use Chews as a Supplement, Not a Substitute

Even the best dog dental chews can’t replace regular brushing or professional cleanings. Think of them as part of a complete oral care routine.

For more training and behavior resources that help keep your pet disciplined and happy, read Best Dog Leash for Training for expert tips on leash habits that complement healthy chewing routines.

Why Natural Dental Chews Are Better

Natural chews are not only safer but more beneficial for your dog’s health overall. They provide nutrients and chewing satisfaction that synthetic options can’t match.

• Protein-rich: Supports muscle growth and tissue repair.
• Chemical-free: Reduces exposure to artificial ingredients.
• Digestible: Gentle on sensitive stomachs.
• Satisfying chew time: Reduces boredom and anxiety.

Many pet parents notice improved breath and less plaque buildup within weeks of introducing natural chews. Regular chewing also helps reduce destructive behavior and stress.

Practical Tips for Using Dental Chews Safely

1. Supervise Chewing: Always watch your dog to prevent choking or over-chewing.
2. Pick the Correct Size: Chews should be large enough to discourage swallowing whole.
3. Limit Daily Quantity: One chew a day is ideal, overuse can lead to calorie buildup.
4. Store Properly: Keep in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
5. Combine With Brushing: For the best results, alternate between brushing and chew days.

When to Avoid Certain Chews

Skip overly hard materials like cooked bones, hooves, or antlers that can fracture teeth. Also, avoid chews that easily splinter or crumble. Your dog’s comfort and safety always come first.

If you’re training your dog alongside improving oral care, you might also want to check Best Prong Collar for Dogs to see how structured guidance enhances your pet’s behavior during routines like brushing and chewing.

How Often Should You Give Dental Chews?

Most dogs benefit from a dental chew once per day. Puppies or senior dogs may need softer options or reduced frequency. Monitor how your dog’s teeth and gums respond, if you see irritation, switch to a gentler formula.

The Role of Chewing in Overall Wellness

Beyond dental care, chewing offers mental and physical benefits:

• Reduces stress and anxiety
• Encourages jaw exercise
• Supports natural instincts
• Keeps dogs occupied and content

Chewing satisfies a primal need while supporting their emotional health. Think of it as a workout for their mouth and mind!

Common Myths About Dog Dental Chews

Myth 1: “Dental chews replace brushing.”
Truth: They’re a supplement. Brushing still provides the most thorough cleaning.

Myth 2: “All chews are the same.”
Truth: Texture, ingredients, and shape vary widely. Not all are equally effective.

Myth 3: “Dogs can eat any bone.”
Truth: Some bones splinter easily and can cause injury, always choose safe, tested chews.

Keep Your Dog’s Smile Bright and Healthy

Caring for your dog’s oral health doesn’t have to be hard. The best dog dental chews make it easy to clean teeth, reduce buildup, and keep breath fresh, all while your pup enjoys a tasty treat. Consistent chewing, paired with brushing and regular vet checkups, helps prevent dental issues and keeps your pet feeling their best.

Want to learn more about keeping your dog’s teeth healthy? Visit our blog for expert tips or check out our collection of natural dog chews to find your pup’s favorite.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Dog Dental Chews

What is the healthiest dental chew for dogs?

The healthiest dental chew for dogs is one made from natural ingredients like beef, pig ears, or bully twists. These chews clean teeth while providing protein and essential nutrients, making them a wholesome choice for daily use.

Do vets recommend dental chews for dogs?

Yes, most veterinarians recommend dental chews as part of an overall oral care plan. Dental chews help reduce tartar and freshen breath, but brushing and annual dental cleanings are still essential to prevent gum disease.

What is the best chew toy for dogs’ teeth?

The best chew toy for dogs’ teeth is one that’s durable yet gentle, like a natural bone or rubber toy. These toys massage gums and remove plaque safely, helping dogs develop healthy chewing habits from a young age.

What do vets recommend for dog teeth?

Veterinarians recommend a combination of daily brushing, professional cleanings, and safe dental chews to maintain oral health. Choosing natural chews also supports digestion and provides essential nutrients for strong teeth.

Can I give my dog dental chews every day?

Yes, most dogs can have one dental chew daily. Daily chewing supports plaque control and keeps your dog’s mouth clean and odor-free. Just make sure the chew matches your dog’s size and dietary needs.