As responsible pet owners, we all want to ensure our canine companions maintain optimal oral health. Dental chews and toys can be valuable tools in a dog’s at-home dental care routine, offering both enjoyment and a way to promote cleaner teeth. However, the sheer variety available in the market can make selection a challenge, and not all products are created equal. Some may inadvertently lead to dental trauma rather than contribute to better oral hygiene. Understanding the anatomy of a dog’s teeth and the design of chew objects is crucial for making safe and beneficial choices.
Dogs, by nature, are oral creatures. Chewing is not only a source of happiness for them but also a natural behavior that is important to encourage. When selecting a chew item, owners must discern whether it will be beneficial or potentially harmful to their dog’s teeth. This involves considering the hardness and composition of the chew against the specific structure of a dog’s dentition.
Understanding Canine Dentition
Did you know that adult dogs possess 42 teeth? Furthermore, their enamel is significantly less robust than that of humans. In fact, dogs have approximately 5 to 10 times less enamel than we do, a difference attributed to their diet and feeding habits. The majority of teeth in a dog’s mouth are conical in shape, designed for tearing and gnawing. This contrasts with human teeth, which typically have a flat occlusal surface, suited for prolonged chewing due to our omnivorous dietary adaptations.
The Risks of Hard Chew Toys
Many oral toys and chews found in pet stores and supermarkets are exceptionally hard. Unfortunately, these can pose a significant risk of causing broken teeth. A practical rule of thumb to consider is: if you believe a product would be too hard to bite without damaging your own teeth, it is likely to cause similar harm to your dog’s teeth. Common chew items that have been identified as leading to tooth trauma include bones, antlers, Nyla bones, marrow bones, frozen meat, bully sticks, ice, and rawhides, among others.
The likelihood of experiencing tooth trauma is also influenced by the dog’s chewing behavior. Some dogs are naturally more enthusiastic and aggressive chewers than others. Those that exert greater force or chew with more vigor are at a higher risk of suffering dental injuries.
Selecting Safe Chew Toys
For chew objects, items that offer some degree of flexibility are generally recommended. Rubber and cloth-based products tend to cause minimal tooth trauma and are considered safer for a dog’s teeth. It is imperative that all chew objects are provided under direct supervision to prevent choking hazards or misuse.
Here are a couple of straightforward guidelines to help you choose:
- If you can easily create an indentation in the chew object with your fingernail, it is most likely safe for your dog’s teeth.
- Conversely, if you wouldn’t want the toy thrown at your knee due to its hardness, it is not safe for your dog’s teeth.
When choosing between toys, consider options like West Paw dog toys which are known for their durability and safety.
Recommended Dental Chews for Dogs
For dental chews specifically designed to benefit oral health, consider the following well-regarded options:
- Virbac Veggiedent chews
- Canine Greenies
- Milk-Bone Dental Brushing Chews
- Purina Dentalife Daily Oral Care Dog Treats
- Pedigree Dentastix
- Tartar Shield Soft Rawhide Chews
- Blue Buffalo Dental Chews
- Whole Foods: Carrots and green beans are excellent natural, low-calorie options.
For a more comprehensive list of products that have met specific standards for efficacy, the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) website offers a detailed list of accepted products.
Recommended Chew Toys
Beyond dental chews, there are numerous safe and engaging chew toys available:
- Woof popsicle
- Kong toys
- Select Playology toys
- West Paw dog toys—proudly made in Bozeman!
- Tuffy dog toys
Toys like the Woof popsicle can provide extended engagement and mental stimulation.
Compassionate Pet Dental Care
Chewing is a fundamental and beneficial behavior that should be encouraged to promote tooth health and prevent dental trauma. However, if a tooth is inadvertently fractured, it requires prompt attention to alleviate pain and prevent secondary infections. The treatment options for fractured teeth depend heavily on the severity of the trauma.
If a tooth fracture involves exposure of the pulp cavity, the two primary treatment options are root canal therapy or extraction therapy. If the fracture does not compromise the pulp cavity, a procedure involving odontoplasty and a bonded sealant is often recommended. This process involves smoothing the fractured surface and applying a dental resin to shield the underlying tooth structure from sensitivity and potential infection.
At Montana Pet Dentistry & Oral Surgery, we are dedicated to helping your canine companion achieve optimal oral health. Please do not hesitate to contact our office if you have any questions regarding dental chews, chew toys, or general oral care for your dog.
