A Dental Dilemma: Are Dog Dental Treats Worth It?
Sure, your dog loves their daily dental treat. They love anything edible, really. But when you are purchasing these dog dental chews (probably spending a lot of money each month), you may wonder if they stack up to the hype.
Dental chews are an easy go-to for pet owners who want an easier way to care for their dog’s dental care. In reality, there are some things to consider about relying on dental treats for all that it’s promised to do.
The team at MarketPlace Veterinary Hospital is here to give you the insight into what to expect with dental chews for your Fido friend.
Let’s Begin with Dental Care
Sometimes, it is all too easy to rely on a dental treat to make up for a lack of toothbrushing. That hopeful thought, though, just isn’t true. We know that your dog likes to squirm when you get out the brush, but toothbrushing and professional dental cleanings are the only way to remove built-up plaque and tartar.
The disconcerting fact of the matter is that 3 out of every 4 dogs suffer from some form of dental disease. Because of the excessive plaque, tartar, and debris, bacteria is likely to form and cause an infection that can travel to important organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys. That said, make it a point to brush your dog’s teeth at least a few times each week. You can always ask us for some simple tips to do this.
Choosing the Best Dental Treat
Since your dog probably approves of any and all dental treats, it may be tempting to reach for whatever is on sale or cheap. Like dog diets, however, not all dental treats are equally effective. You will want to find the right sized chew for your doggo, since the action of chewing is what makes the “scrubbing” work.
Choose a dog dental treat for your dog’s stature, and are sturdy enough to not so easily be gobbled up fast. Larger dental treats are better, but be mindful that it won’t be a daily reward, because remember that you’re giving your dog more calories with each treat. Giving them a treat a few times a week is best.
We also recommend looking for the seal of approval from the Veterinary Oral Health Council. This organization tests out the efficacy of dog chew claims, as well as dog diets. Most dog treats that are worth their price include the following enzymes: lysozyme, lactoferrin, and lactoperoxidase that help clean the enamel.
Recommended Dental Chews
There are countless dog dental treats on the market, but here are a few we recommend.
- Purina Pro Plan Dental Chewz Dog Treats
- Zuke’s Z-Bones Dental Chews
- Oravet Dental Hygiene Chews (for small dogs)
- Greenies Grain Free Dental Treats
- Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Dog Dental Chews
- Purina DentaLife Dog Chew Treats (for large dogs)
We hope this summary gives you a better understanding on the role of dog dental treats and the importance of regular dental care. If you have any questions about your dog’s oral health, or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us.