Ensuring your dog’s oral health is a crucial aspect of their overall well-being. Dental chews and toys can be a beneficial addition to a dog’s home care routine, but selecting the correct ones is vital to prevent, rather than cause, dental trauma. Understanding canine dentition and the design of chew objects can guide you in providing tooth-friendly options for your furry friend.
Adult dogs possess 42 teeth, and their enamel is significantly thinner than human enamel—reportedly 5-10 times less—due to their diet and feeding habits. Canine teeth are predominantly conical, adapted for ripping and gnawing, unlike human teeth which are flatter and designed for prolonged chewing, reflecting our omnivorous nature.
Many chew toys and dental treats available in pet stores and supermarkets are excessively hard, posing a risk of fractured teeth. A helpful rule of thumb is to consider if a chew object could break your own teeth; if so, it likely poses a similar risk to your dog’s. Commonly implicated chew items that can lead to tooth trauma include bones, antlers, Nyla bones, marrow bones, frozen meats, bully sticks, ice, and rawhides. The likelihood of tooth trauma can also be influenced by the dog’s chewing style and enthusiasm; dogs that chew with more force are at a higher risk.
Selecting Safe Chew Toys and Dental Chews
Objects with a degree of flexibility are generally recommended. Rubber and cloth-based products are less likely to cause tooth trauma and are considered safer for your dog’s teeth. It is imperative that all chew objects are provided under direct supervision.
Here are two practical guidelines to help you choose:
- If you can easily make an indentation in the chew object with your fingernail, it is likely safe.
- If you wouldn’t want the toy thrown at your knee, it is probably too hard for your dog’s teeth.
For dental chews specifically aimed at benefiting oral health, consider these recommendations:
- Virbac C.E.T. Veggiedent
- Greenies
- Milk-Bone Brushing Chews
- Purina Dentalife Daily Oral Care
- Pedigree Dentastix
- Tartar Shield Soft Rawhide Chews
- Blue Buffalo Dental Chews
- Natural Whole Foods: Carrots and green beans serve as excellent, natural options.
For a more comprehensive list of Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) accepted products, you can visit the VOHC website.
When it comes to general chew toys, the following are good choices:
- Pupsicle
- KONG Toys
- Select Playology Toys
- West Paw Dog Toys
- Tuffy Dog Toys
Compassionate Pet Dental Care
Chewing is a natural and beneficial behavior that should be encouraged to promote dental health and prevent trauma. If a tooth is accidentally fractured, it requires prompt attention to alleviate pain and prevent secondary infections. Treatment for fractured teeth varies based on the severity of the injury.
Should a tooth fracture expose the pulp cavity, the primary treatment options are either root canal therapy or extraction. If the fracture does not involve the pulp, a procedure called odontoplasty with a bonded sealant is often recommended. This involves smoothing the fractured surface and applying a dental resin to protect the underlying tooth structure from sensitivity and infection.
At our practice, we are committed to helping your canine companion achieve optimal oral health. Please feel free to contact our office with any questions regarding dental chews, chew toys, or general oral care for your dog.
These safe chewing options can be a great way to maintain your dog’s dental hygiene, but if you’re concerned about more serious dental issues like arthritis in dogs, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian. They can provide the most accurate diagnosis and recommend the best course of action, whether it’s through over-the-counter arthritis treatment for dogs or other specialized care. Remember, a happy dog is often a healthy dog, and good dental health plays a significant role in their overall comfort and longevity.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (05/08/2025) Photo by James Lacy on Unsplash
