10 Best Dental Chews For Dogs in 2026

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The best dental chew for most small dogs is the Greenies Teenie Natural Dental Dog Treats, a clinically proven daily chew that cleans down to the gumline and balances the oral microbiome. For medium breeds, the Greenies Regular Dental Dog Treats offer the same vet-recommended formula, while the Virbac 90057 Dental Chews stand out as the top plant-based option.

The real challenge with dental chews is finding one your dog will actually chew every day, and one that fits their size, dietary needs, and chewing style. A chew that’s too hard can damage teeth, while one that’s too soft won’t scrape off plaque.

This guide is based on manufacturer specifications, veterinary recommendations, and patterns in owner feedback across the most popular dental chews on the market. We’ve organized the top 10 by size, dietary needs, and budget so you can match the right chew to your dog.

Top 10 Dental Chews For Dogs in the Market

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The Best Dental Chews For Dogs, Reviewed

#1Best Overall

Greenies Teenie Natural Dental Dog Treats

Greenies Teenie Natural Dental Dog Treats
SizeTeenie (5-15 lbs)
Count43 treats
Key Benefit47% less tartar, 40% less plaque
FlavorChicken
Vet RecommendationVeterinarian-recommended
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What We Like

  • Cleans down to the gumline
  • Clinically proven plaque and tartar reduction
  • Natural ingredients with added vitamins
  • Balances oral microbiome for whole-body health

Trade-offs

  • Only for dogs 5-15 lbs
  • Requires daily use for best results

A 47% less tartar and 40% less plaque accumulation over 28 days is the kind of number that makes you stop comparing labels and start grabbing a bag. These Greenies Teenie treats are designed specifically for small dogs between five and fifteen pounds, with a texture that scrubs down to the gumline where trouble usually starts. The formula also positively balances the oral microbiome. For anyone with a little dog who needs daily dental support without a fight, this is the straightforward option.

The trade-off is that you have to use them every day to get those numbers, and the chicken flavor won’t be a hit with every picky eater. If your dog is over fifteen pounds, you will need a different size; the Greenies Regular size is for dogs 25-50 lbs. For the right size dog, this is the most direct path to cleaner teeth and fresher breath.

Best for: Small dog owners who want a vet-recommended, clinically proven daily dental chew that targets plaque, tartar, and breath. Not ideal for dogs over 15 lbs or those that refuse chicken flavor.
#2Best For Medium Dogs

Greenies Regular Dental Dog Treats

Greenies Regular Dental Dog Treats
Weight range25-50 lbs
Count36 treats
FlavorOriginal Chicken
Key result47% less tartar, 40% less plaque in 28 days
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What We Like

  • Veterinarian-recommended dental treat
  • Clinically proven plaque and tartar reduction
  • Unique texture cleans down to gumline
  • Supports whole-body oral microbiome balance

Trade-offs

  • Only for dogs 25-50 lbs, not smaller or larger
  • Daily use required for stated results

Greenies Regular Dental Dog Treats are designed for medium dogs weighing 25 to 50 pounds, with a unique texture that cleans down to the gumline while balancing the oral microbiome. For anyone with a dog in that weight range who tolerates chicken flavor, this is a straightforward, veterinarian-recommended daily chew that does exactly what it says on the tin.

This treat is sized specifically for medium dogs. If your pup falls outside that 25-50 pound window, you’ll need to look at another option, the Greenies Teenie size covers 5-15 pounds, for instance, while larger dogs require a different product entirely. Compared to the Virbac Veggiedent chews, which are also vet-recommended and VOHC-approved for plaque and tartar control, Greenies offer a chicken-flavored natural ingredient blend with added vitamins and minerals. That makes them a better fit for owners who want a meat-flavored chew with proven clinical data, but less ideal for those seeking a treat that spans multiple dog sizes.

Best for: Medium dog owners wanting a veterinarian-recommended, clinically proven daily dental chew with measurable plaque and tartar reduction. Not ideal for dogs under 25 or over 50 pounds.
#3Best Plant-Based Pick

Virbac 90057 Dental Chews

Virbac 90057 Dental Chews
Weight range22 to 66 lbs
Calories per chew75 kcal
Key featureVOHC approved
Count30 chews
ShapeZ-shape
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What We Like

  • VOHC approved for plaque and tartar
  • Plant-based, gluten-free formula
  • Includes prebiotic for digestive health
  • Z-shape reaches front to back teeth

Trade-offs

  • Only for dogs 22 to 66 pounds
  • 75 kcal per chew adds up for small dogs

Virbac 90057 Dental Chews carry VOHC approval for plaque and tartar control, meaning the design has been reviewed by veterinary dental experts for effectiveness. The Z-shape is engineered to scrub from front teeth all the way back to the molars, so a single daily chew covers the whole mouth. The plant-based formula is formulated without gluten and includes a prebiotic to support proper digestion. At 75 kcal per chew, it fits into a daily routine for dogs in the 22 to 66 pound range.

If your dog weighs between 22 and 66 pounds, this plant-based chew cleans teeth, freshens breath, and supports digestion with just one per day. Dogs outside that range will need a different product. Compared to Greenies Regular (for dogs 25-50 lbs), the Virbac covers a broader weight span and adds a prebiotic for gut health. Owners of a mid-sized dog who want a VOHC-approved, gluten-free chew with digestive benefits will find this fits their needs.

Best for: Owners of dogs weighing 22 to 66 pounds who want a plant-based, VOHC-approved dental chew with digestive support. Not ideal for dogs under 22 pounds or over 66 pounds.
#4Best Budget Pick

Pedigree Dentastix Small & Toy Breed Dental Dog Treats

Pedigree Dentastix Small & Toy Breed Dental Dog Treats
Weight Range7 to 22 lbs
Treats Per Pack51 count
ShapeX-shape
Key ActionReduces tartar, cleans teeth, freshens breath
FlavorFresh flavor
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What We Like

  • Triple action: reduces tartar, cleans, freshens breath
  • X-shape design scrapes hard-to-reach areas
  • Developed with Waltham pet nutrition science

Trade-offs

  • Only for dogs 7-22 lbs, not for larger breeds
  • Requires one treat daily for breath freshening

Fifty-one treats per pack gives you over a month and a half of daily dental care from a single bag. The X-shape is not just a gimmick, that chewy texture is designed to scrape plaque from those awkward spots around the gumline while your dog gnaws. For small breeds between seven and twenty-two pounds, this is a straightforward, no-fuss way to tackle tartar buildup and keep breath fresher without resorting to brushes or pastes.

This formula is built for small dogs only, so if you have a pup under seven pounds or a larger breed, you will need to look elsewhere. Compared to the Greenies Teenie treats, which are also for small dogs, the Dentastix pack gives you more pieces per container, but it does not carry the veterinarian-recommended badge that Greenies does. Just remember that one stick a day is the routine for maintaining the dental care benefits.

Best for: Owners of small breed dogs (7-22 lbs) who want an affordable, daily dental chew that reduces tartar and freshens breath without added sugar or fillers. Not ideal for dogs under 7 lbs or those with very sensitive teeth.
#5Best Natural Vegetarian Chew

Wellness WHIMZEES Value Pack Natural Dog Dental Treat

Wellness WHIMZEES Value Pack Natural Dog Dental Treat
SizeLarge, for dogs 40-60 lbs
Count24 chews per box
Weight50.9 oz box
Key FeatureVOHC accepted, vet recommended
DietGrain-free, vegetarian, no meat
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What We Like

  • VOHC accepted for plaque and tartar
  • Vegetarian, grain-free, no artificial ingredients
  • Low fat with fiber for digestive health

Trade-offs

  • Single size limits use to dogs 40-60 lbs
  • Requires daily chewing for dental benefits

The large size fits dogs in the 40-60 pound range, and the vegetarian, grain-free formula skips artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives while adding fiber for digestive health. That makes it a strong pick for dogs with food sensitivities or owners who prefer a plant-based treat that still delivers on oral care.

The trade-off here is that the vegetarian recipe and single size bracket won’t suit every dog. If your pup turns up their nose at meatless chews, the Greenies Regular Dental Dog Treats offer a chicken flavor that might land better, though they don’t share the same plant-based profile. For the owner who wants a vet-recommended, VOHC-accepted chew that supports dental health and digestive health, this box of 24 large chews covers the basics without the extras.

Best for: Dog owners looking for a grain-free, vegetarian dental chew that's vet recommended and VOHC accepted for daily oral care. Not ideal for dogs under 40 lbs.

Product photos

#6Best VOHC Accepted Chew

Whimzees Wellness Brushzees Natural Dog Dental Treat

Whimzees Wellness Brushzees Natural Dog Dental Treat
SizeSmall
Count24 chews per bag
Target Weight15 to 25 lbs
VOHC AcceptedYes
Ingredients6 natural, no artificial additives
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What We Like

  • VOHC seal for plaque and tartar reduction
  • Veterinarian recommended for dental health
  • All natural with no grains or artificial ingredients
  • Supports breath, tartar, plaque, and gums

Trade-offs

  • Daily use required for best results
  • Only sized for dogs 15 to 25 pounds
  • Mechanical chewing action only, no enzymatic additives

The VOHC acceptance on this chew means it has actually been reviewed and approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council for reducing plaque and tartar, not just marketing talk. That matters because dental disease in dogs is real, and a chew that carries that seal has shown it works through mechanical chewing action. It targets the four areas vets check most: breath, tartar, plaque, and gums. Made from six natural ingredients with no artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or grain, it’s a daily treat that fits dogs with food sensitivities.

This is a daily commitment, one chew per day for an adult dog in the 15 to 25 pound range. That narrow weight band means it won’t fit a smaller or larger dog without swapping sizes. Compared to Greenies Teenie, which targets dogs 5 to 15 pounds, the Brushzees Small covers a heavier bracket and skips the chicken flavor in favor of a simpler natural ingredient list. If your dog falls in that weight range and you want VOHC backing without artificial extras, this is the one to grab.

Best for: Dog owners with a 15 to 25 pound adult dog who want a VOHC-accepted, all-natural daily dental chew. Not ideal for puppies, dogs outside that weight range, or anyone looking for a treat that works without daily use.

Product photos

#7Best For Small Dogs Tartar Control

Dentalife Purina Daily Oral Care Dental Dog Treats

Dentalife Purina Daily Oral Care Dental Dog Treats
Weight range5-20 lbs
Count58 chews
FlavorChicken
VOHC standardReduces tartar buildup
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What We Like

  • VOHC-accepted for tartar reduction
  • Resealable 58-count pack
  • Made in USA

Trade-offs

  • Only for dogs 5-20 lbs
  • Not suitable for dogs under 5 pounds

This product is strictly for dogs between 5 and 20 pounds. If your dog is smaller than that, the Greenies Teenie option targets the 5-15 pound range and is also veterinarian-recommended, which might give you more flexibility at the low end.

Best for: Small dog owners who want a VOHC-accepted, chicken-flavored daily chew with a ridge design that helps clean teeth down to the gumline. Not ideal for dogs under 5 lbs or over 20 lbs.
#8Best For Joint Health

Virbac 127737 Dental Chews

Virbac 127737 Dental Chews
Weight Range11 to 22 lbs
Chews Per Bag30
Key IngredientEggshell membrane
VOHC ApprovedYes
ShapeZ-shape
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What We Like

  • VOHC approved for plaque and tartar
  • Includes eggshell membrane for joint support
  • Gluten-free and easily digestible
  • Contains prebiotic for gut health

Trade-offs

  • Only for dogs 11 to 22 lbs
  • Daily chew required for results

The Z-shape of this chew is designed to reach front to back and everywhere in between, helping reduce plaque and tartar with daily use. The eggshell membrane supports joint health, and the prebiotic supports proper digestion and intestinal well-being. For a small dog, this combines dental care, mobility support, and digestive health in one daily treat.

The weight range here is for dogs 11 to 22 lbs. If your pup is outside that range, other chews in this guide may fit better. For owners who want joint support built into a dental chew, this product includes eggshell membrane for that purpose. The plant-based formula is gluten-free and easily digestible.

Best for: Dog owners with small breeds (11-22 lbs) who want a dental chew that also supports joint health and digestion. Not ideal for dogs outside that weight range or those who prefer meat-based treats.

Product photos

#9Best For Large Breeds

Pedigree Dentastix Large Breed Dental Dog Treats

Pedigree Dentastix Large Breed Dental Dog Treats
Weight2.8 pounds
Count51 treats
Dog size40+ lbs
FlavorsChicken, Beef, Fresh
ShapeX-shape
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What We Like

  • X-shape scrapes plaque from teeth
  • No added sugar or fillers
  • Triple action: tartar, clean, breath
  • Variety pack with three flavors

Trade-offs

  • Only for dogs 40 pounds and over
  • One treat daily, not for smaller breeds

A 51-count box provides over a month of daily dental care for a large dog, since the recommended use is one treat per day for dogs 40 pounds and up. The X-shape is designed to scrape plaque from hard-to-reach areas around the teeth while chewing, and the triple-action formula targets tartar reduction, cleaning, and breath freshening in a single stick. For owners of big breeds, this simplifies dental maintenance into a straightforward daily routine without needing multiple products.

These treats are formulated exclusively for dogs 40 pounds and up, so owners with smaller dogs or mixed-size households will need a separate product like the Pedigree Dentastix Small & Toy Breed version. The chewy texture provides mechanical scraping action, and the treats contain no added sugar. For a large breed owner seeking an affordable daily dental stick, this is a practical option.

Best for: Large breed owners wanting an affordable daily dental chew that reduces tartar and freshens breath. Not ideal for dogs under 40 pounds or those who prefer softer treats.

Product photos

#10Best Vet-Recommended Chew

ORAVET Dental Chews for Small Dogs

ORAVET Dental Chews for Small Dogs
Weight Range10-24 lbs
Active IngredientDelmopinol
Count30 chews
FlavorPoultry with vanilla aroma
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What We Like

  • Contains delmopinol, used in human oral rinses
  • Forms a barrier against bad-breath bacteria
  • Individually wrapped for freshness and portability
  • Once-daily chew supports consistent routine

Trade-offs

  • Only for dogs 10-24 lbs, not smaller or larger
  • Requires daily use for full-month protection

Delmopinol is the standout here, it’s the same ingredient used in human mouth rinses to create a protective barrier against bacteria that cause bad breath. That means this chew doesn’t just rely on mechanical scrubbing; it chemically helps keep plaque from sticking in the first place. For small dogs between 10 and 24 pounds, it’s a straightforward once-daily routine that targets both tartar buildup and odor at the source, which explains why veterinarians often choose it for their own pets.

The 30-count bag gives you a full month of daily chews, so you can set a monthly reminder and never run out. It’s made for dogs and puppies at least six months old who weigh 3.5 pounds or more, which covers most small breeds. Compared to Greenies Teenie, which relies on texture alone and targets dogs 5-15 lbs, ORAVET uses delmopinol, a barrier-forming ingredient borrowed from human oral rinses, to fight bacteria that cause bad breath. That means if your dog fits the weight range and you want a vet-backed approach that goes beyond simple abrasion, this is the more targeted pick.

Best for: Small dog owners who want a vet-formulated chew with a chemical barrier against plaque and bad breath. Not ideal for dogs under 10 lbs or over 24 lbs, or for puppies younger than six months.

Product photos

How We Evaluated Dental Chews For Dogs

We built this guide by analyzing product specifications, manufacturer clinical data, and the consensus from veterinary dental experts. We also looked at what thousands of dog owners report about their dogs’ willingness to chew each product daily, since a dental chew only works if your dog actually eats it.

The four criteria that mattered most were effectiveness, ingredient quality, size-appropriateness, and daily compliance. Effectiveness meant VOHC acceptance and clinical plaque/tartar data. Ingredient quality covered natural vs. Artificial, allergens, and additives. Size-appropriateness matters because a chew designed for a 10-pound dog won’t help a 60-pound dog. Daily compliance is about how easy it is to give one chew every day without your dog getting bored.

A research-led evaluation like this can’t replace a vet’s hands-on exam of your dog’s teeth, but it gives you a solid starting point. We focused on chews with the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of acceptance whenever possible, as that’s the most objective third-party endorsement available.

What To Look For In Dental Chews For Dogs

Choosing the right dental chew means matching it to your dog’s size, chewing habits, and health needs. Here are the key factors that separate an effective daily chew from a wasted treat.

Focus on VOHC-accepted chews, match the weight range exactly, and pick a texture that will scrape teeth without breaking them. Daily use is non-negotiable for results.

VOHC Acceptance and Clinical Evidence

The Veterinary Oral Health Council seal is the gold standard. It means the product has been tested and proven to reduce plaque or tartar buildup. Chews like the Greenies line, Virbac Dental Chews, and Whimzees all carry this seal. Without it, you’re relying on marketing claims. If you want measurable results, look for the VOHC logo on the package.

Size and Weight Matching

Every dental chew in this guide specifies a weight range. Feeding a large-breed chew to a small dog can cause choking or digestive blockage. Giving a small-breed chew to a large dog won’t provide enough chewing action to clean teeth. The chews for small dogs need to be the right density and size for their jaw, while chews for large dogs need enough bulk to last through a full chewing session.

Texture and Mechanical Action

The best dental chews use a porous, slightly abrasive texture that scrapes plaque off teeth as the dog chews. Greenies and Whimzees are known for this “toothbrush-like” texture. Harder chews like antlers or bones can fracture teeth, while soft treats don’t provide enough friction. The ideal chew is firm enough to resist biting but flexible enough to bend without breaking.

Ingredient Profile and Dietary Needs

  • If your dog has food allergies, look for plant-based or limited-ingredient formulas.
  • For dogs with sensitive stomachs, choose chews with prebiotics or simple ingredient lists.
  • Grain-free options like Whimzees work well for dogs with grain sensitivities.
  • Low-fat chews like Wellness WHIMZEES are better for dogs on a weight management plan.

A daily dental chew should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.

Dental Chews For Dogs Compared

The table below compares the top 10 dental chews across their key features, weight range, VOHC status, and primary benefit, so you can quickly spot which one fits your dog.

ProductWeight RangeCountKey Feature
Greenies Teenie Natural Dental Dog Treats5-15 lbs43 treats47% less tartar, 40% less plaque
Greenies Regular Dental Dog Treats25-50 lbs36 treats47% less tartar, 40% less plaque
Virbac 90057 Dental Chews22 to 66 lbs30 chewsVOHC approved
Pedigree Dentastix Small & Toy Breed Dental Dog Treats7 to 22 lbs51 countReduces tartar, cleans teeth, freshens breath
Wellness WHIMZEES Value Pack Natural Dog Dental Treat40-60 lbs24 chewsVOHC accepted, vet recommended
Whimzees Wellness Brushzees Natural Dog Dental Treat15 to 25 lbs24 chewsVOHC Accepted
Dentalife Purina Daily Oral Care Dental Dog Treats5-20 lbs58 chewsReduces tartar buildup
Virbac 127737 Dental Chews11 to 22 lbs30 chewsVOHC approved
Pedigree Dentastix Large Breed Dental Dog Treats40+ lbs51 treatsReduces plaque and tartar buildup
ORAVET Dental Chews for Small Dogs10-24 lbs30 chewsDelmopinol

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dental chews good for dogs?

Yes, when used correctly. The benefits of dental chews include mechanical plaque removal, fresher breath, and reduced tartar buildup. They work best as part of a dental care routine that includes regular brushing and veterinary checkups. Not all chews are equally effective, so choosing a VOHC-accepted product gives you the best chance of seeing real results.

How often should I give my dog a dental chew?

Most dental chews, including Greenies and Virbac, are designed for once-daily use. The label will specify the exact frequency. Giving more than recommended can upset your dog’s stomach or add too many calories. Skipping days reduces the effectiveness, since plaque starts hardening into tartar within 24 hours.

Can dental chews replace brushing my dog’s teeth?

No. Dental chews are a supplement, not a replacement for brushing. They clean the chewing surfaces of the molars but don’t reach the inner surfaces of the teeth or the gumline the way a toothbrush can. Think of them as a daily maintenance tool that makes brushing more effective, not a substitute.

What should I do if my dog swallows a dental chew whole?

If your dog gulps chews without chewing, switch to a larger size or a softer texture. Some dogs need supervision during chewing until you’re sure they won’t choke. If your dog regularly swallows chews whole, consider digestible dental chews that break down quickly in the stomach, or talk to your vet about alternatives.

Are grain-free dental chews better for dogs?

Not necessarily. Grain-free chews are useful for dogs with confirmed grain allergies, but there’s no evidence they’re healthier for the average dog. The Whimzees and Virbac plant-based options are naturally grain-free, which makes them a good choice for sensitive dogs. Focus on VOHC acceptance and size fit before worrying about grain content.

The Bottom Line

For most dog owners, the Greenies Teenie Natural Dental Dog Treats are the best overall choice, they have the strongest clinical evidence, the VOHC seal, and a texture that dogs actually enjoy chewing. If you have a medium breed, the Greenies Regular Dental Dog Treats deliver the same formula in a larger size.

Budget-conscious owners should look at the Pedigree Dentastix Small & Toy Breed Dental Dog Treats, which offer solid tartar reduction at a lower price point. Owners of large breeds over 40 pounds will find the Pedigree Dentastix Large Breed Dental Dog Treats a reliable daily option.

The single most important factor is daily compliance. A perfect chew that your dog refuses to eat does nothing. Pick a flavor and texture your dog loves, match the size to their weight, and stick to the one-per-day routine. Your dog’s teeth, and your vet, will thank you.