The Best Natural Chews for Keeping Your Dog’s Teeth Clean
Why Is Dental Care Important for Dogs?
Keeping your dog’s teeth clean is essential for their overall health. Just like humans, dogs can suffer from plaque buildup, gum disease, and bad breath if their teeth aren’t properly maintained. In fact, periodontal disease affects over 80% of dogs by the age of three! Poor oral hygiene can lead to pain, infection, and even organ damage if bacteria from the mouth enter the bloodstream.
While brushing your dog’s teeth is the gold standard, it isn’t always the easiest task! This is where natural chews come in, providing a fun, tasty, and effective way to promote oral health.
As a professional pet sitter, I see plenty of dogs with different chewing habits, so I’ve put together some advice on the best natural chews for canine dental care.
Best Natural Chews for Dog Dental Health
1. Raw Meaty Bones (carefully selected!)
Raw bones are one of the most effective natural chews for maintaining dental health, but selecting the right type is crucial.
Best Options:
Duck or Turkey Necks – These are soft, flexible bones that help scrape plaque off teeth while being relatively safe for moderate chewers.
Chicken Feet – High in glucosamine and chondroitin, these not only clean teeth but also support joint health.
Lamb Ribs – A softer option that provides a natural flossing action for the teeth without the risk of breaking them.
Bones to Avoid:
Marrow Bones & Weight-Bearing Bones for Aggressive Chewers – Large, dense bones from cows or other large animals can be too hard, leading to painful slab fractures in teeth, especially if your dog chews aggressively.
Cooked Bones – Cooking changes the structure of bones, making them brittle and prone to splintering, which can cause choking or internal injuries.
Safety Tip: Always supervise your dog while they chew on bones. Even the safest raw bones can pose a choking risk if not monitored.
2. Beef Trachea
Beef trachea is an excellent chew that provides both dental benefits and joint support.
Natural Crunch & Abrasive Texture – As your dog chews, the hollow tube naturally scrapes away plaque and tartar.
Rich in Glucosamine & Chondroitin – These compounds help maintain joint health, making beef trachea a great option for older dogs.
Fully Digestible – Unlike synthetic chews, beef trachea is completely safe to consume, reducing the risk of blockages.
3. Rabbit Ears (With or Without Fur!)
Rabbit ears might sound unusual, but they are a fantastic, natural dental treat!
Gentle on Teeth – A softer chew that cleans the teeth without the risk of damage.
Natural Dewormer – The fur acts as a natural deworming agent by helping to clean the digestive tract.
Low Fat & Hypoallergenic – Ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those prone to allergies.
4. Fish Skin Twists
Fish skin chews are not only great for dental health but also provide excellent nutritional benefits.
Rich in Omega-3s – Supports skin, coat, and brain health.
Abrasive Texture – The natural ridges in fish skins help scrape plaque from teeth.
Low in Fat – A great option for weight-conscious dogs.
5. Bully Sticks (Pizzle Chews)
Bully sticks are a favorite among dogs and provide long-lasting chewing satisfaction.
Fully Digestible – Unlike rawhide, bully sticks break down safely in the stomach.
Encourages Extended Chewing – The natural toughness helps massage gums and clean teeth over time.
Watch the Calories – They can be high in calories, so moderation is key.
6. Yak Milk Chews
Yak milk chews are long-lasting, all natural, and highly digestible.
Hard Yet Safe – Unlike weight-bearing bones, yak chews soften as your dog works on them, reducing the risk of tooth fractures.
No Artificial Ingredients – Made from yak and cow milk, lime, and salt, they’re a pure, simple chew.
Bonus Tip: Once it becomes too small, soak it in warm water and microwave for a homemade crunchy puff treat!
7. Carrots & Apples
Sometimes, the simplest chews are the best!
Carrots – The natural crunch scrapes off plaque and provides vitamins for eye and skin health.
Apples – Contain malic acid, which can help naturally freshen breath.
Important: Always remove apple seeds, as they contain cyanide.
Providing your dog with the right natural chews can go a long way in maintaining their dental health. The right chew for your dog’s chewing style and dietary needs is key. Always supervise chewing sessions, and if in doubt, consult your vet for personalised advice.
Looking for expert pet care in Godalming and the surrounding areas? Sit & Stay Godalming provides tailored drop-in visits to ensure your pets are happy, healthy, and well cared for. Book a visit today and give your pets the best care possible!