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Finding the best dental chews for dogs in 2026 is tricky — they promise fresher breath and cleaner teeth, but do they really deliver?
My 8.5-year-old Shih Tzu/Maltese mix rescue (Tofu, all white and fluffy, under 25 pounds) has had bad breath since he was a baby. It’s just part of him — no matter what I try, that doggy smell lingers. I’ve given him dental chews like Greenies, Pedigree Dentastix, and Milk-Bone brushing chews over the years. He loves basically all treats (he’s not picky at all), so he gobbles them up happily.
But honestly? They help a little with daily plaque prevention, but they don’t fix existing buildup or get rid of the smell completely. Tofu still needs regular vet cleanings under anesthesia to keep his teeth healthy. Dental chews add calories too (important for weight management), so I count them as part of his daily treats.
Vets say chews can reduce plaque by 20–50% if used daily (especially VOHC-approved ones), but they’re no substitute for professional cleaning or brushing. Natural options like celery or carrots are low-calorie alternatives that scrape plaque without the fat risk.
In this guide, I’ll share the best dental chews for dogs in 2026 — based on Tofu’s experience, vet advice, and owner reviews. I’ll be honest: they’re helpful for maintenance, but regular cleanings are key for bad breath and buildup.
Caption: Bad breath is common in small dogs like Tofu — chews help, but vet cleanings are essential.
Why Dental Chews Help (But Aren’t a Magic Fix)
Dental disease affects 80% of dogs by age 3 — plaque turns to tartar, leading to gum issues, pain, and even organ problems.
Chews work by mechanical scraping (texture rubs teeth) and sometimes enzymes. VOHC-approved ones have proven results in studies.
But limitations:
- Don’t remove hardened tartar below gums.
- Add calories (50–100+ per chew — watch weight).
- Not for severe cases (vet cleaning needed).
Tofu’s breath never fully improves with chews alone — he gets professional cleanings every 1–2 years.
Top Dental Chews for 2026 (Tofu-Tested Where Possible)
- Greenies Dental Treats (Tofu’s Favorite — He Loves Them) VOHC-approved, textured for scraping.
Pros: Freshens breath temporarily, small/teenie sizes.
Cons: Calories add up.
Price: ~$15–$40.
- Pedigree Dentastix (Good Budget Option) X-shape for cleaning.
Pros: Affordable, Tofu eats them happily. Cons: Not as effective for heavy buildup. Price: ~$10–$20.
- Whimzees Alligator or Stix (Best Natural/Veggie-Based) Vegetable-based, VOHC-approved.
Pros: Lower calories, fun shapes.
Cons: Harder for very small teeth.
Price: ~$15–$30.
- OraVet Dental Hygiene Chews (Best for Plaque Prevention) VOHC-approved, releases delmopinol to block bacteria.
Pros: Vet-recommended for prevention.
Cons: Pricier.
Price: ~$30–$50.
- Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Chews (Best Enzymatic Action) Dual enzymes + rawhide texture.
Pros: Effective for daily use.
Cons: Rawhide (supervise).
Price: ~$20–$40.
- Purina DentaLife (Best Budget Daily Chew) Porous texture traps plaque.
Pros: Affordable, small sizes.
Cons: Higher calories.
Price: ~$10–$25.
- Ark Naturals Brushless Toothpaste (Best Natural 4-in-1) Enzymes + abrasive texture.
Pros: No brushing needed.
Cons: Mixed results on breath.
Price: ~$15–$30.
- Merrick Fresh Kisses (Best Coconut Oil Infused) Coconut oil for breath.
Pros: Natural, closes gaps.
Cons: Calorie-dense.
Price: ~$15–$30.
Natural Alternatives & Real Routine
Dental chews help prevent, but for bad breath like Tofu’s, professional cleanings are key.
Caption: Vet dental cleaning — the only way to remove heavy tartar.
Low-calorie options: Celery sticks or carrot chunks (crunchy scraping, zero calories).
Tofu’s routine: Daily chew or natural veggie + annual vet cleaning.
Dental chews are a tool, not the full solution — combine with brushing, cleanings, and vet checkups.
What’s your dog’s dental routine?
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
