Written and reviewed by Dr Jill McMaster BVM&S MBA MRCVS, Veterinary Surgeon and in-house expert at BorrowMyDoggy

It’s super impawtant to keep your pooch’s teeth in the best shape possible so they don’t suffer from dental disease, or diseases in other parts of the body that poor dental health can lead to. Tooth brushing is the ideal way to keep those smiles pawfect, but there are also dental treats that claim they improve your doggo’s dental health, which can be used instead of (if your dog just won’t do teeth brushing), or as well as, brushing. There are lots of different options available for dental treats for your dog, so you’re sure to find one your dog thinks is pawsome.

So what should I look for in dental treats for my dog?

• It’s always exciting to try a new treat, but make sure to add anything new in supaw gradually so it doesn’t upset your pooch’s guts or skin. So just one or two at first to try, then you can go up to the recommended daily amount over time.

• Watch the calories. Treats might seem small to us but once you’ve given your dog a few… and then a few more… and maybe just one more… they’ve had a lot more than recommended and this can cause your dog to put on weight! Even with treats that are lower in fat, low fat doesn’t mean no fat, and if they have too many then they can easily pile on the pounds. Make sure to check what the recommended daily guideline is on a treat, and reduce your dog’s meals a bit as well. Your veterinary practice can always advise on your pet’s weight.
• When buying any new treat for your pooch, make sure they are suitable for their age, and that they don’t contain any ingredients that your pup is allergic to.

Here are some dental treats that are currently available:

Sea Jerky Fish Squares

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Price - £4.50 for 115g

What we love -

• Low in calories
• Contains OMEGA 3 (for joints, skin and coat)
• Rough texture to help remove plaque from your dog’s teeth

Best for -

• Sensitive stomachs, with their 100% fish skin contents
• Dogs who love a fishy treat

Laughing Dog Grain Free Teeth and Gums Treats for Dogs

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Price - £2.50 for 125g

What we love -

• Natural ingredients
• Made in the UK
• Unique shape to help remove plaque from your pup’s teeth

Best for -

• Dogs that need low allergen treats
• Dogs over 12 weeks of age

Pedigree Dentastix Chewy Chunx Mini Adult Small

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Price - £1.50 for 68g for mini chicken

What we love -

• Beef or chicken flavours available
• Low in fat
• Described as cleaning teeth and supporting gum health

Best for -

• For dogs aged 1 year+
• Various sizes of dogs with mini or maxi size options available

The information in this article should only be used as a guide, and should never replace advice or treatment given by your veterinarian. If you ever have any concerns about your pet’s health you should speak with your veterinary practice.

Doggy dental hygiene

How to clean your dog's teeth

Alternative to brushing your dog's teeth

Dental treats for dogs

Dog dental toys

Dental sticks for dogs

Dental dog food