4 Best Dog Food Brands For Dental Health

Dental problems are every pet parent’s nightmare. Watching your furry canine friend cry in pain every time it eats food is heartbreaking. However, these problems can be avoided if we start caring for our dogs’ teeth when they are still young. 

Brushing daily tops when it comes to dental health. A regular visit to the dentist also helps. But your dog’s diet is crucial for dental care. Chewing is your dog’s natural way of removing plaque and tartar. Dog foods for dental care are those that lower the risk of dental problems and the impact of dental diseases. They also play a key role in strengthening the teeth. Consuming such meals ensures your dog enjoys his golden years without any dental issues.

Watching out for the early signs of dental problems helps reduce the risk of pain and damaged teeth. Most common dental issues in dogs are similar to those that affect humans. They include teeth misalignment, periodontal disease, abscessed teeth, and tumors in the mouth.

What are the properties of the best dog food for dental health?

Dog foods have an important role in your dog’s dental wellness. Most pet food manufacturers have special formulas aimed at reducing plaque and tartar build-up. Here are the properties to look out for when selecting the best dog food for dental health:

• Dental problems result from residues that get stuck on or between your dog’s teeth. Wet food is more likely to leave a greasy film thus attracting bacteria. In addition, dogs chew dry food for longer thus removing plaques and tartar. Dry food is therefore the best option for dental health. However, you should ensure your dog has access to fresh and clean water to reduce the risks of dehydration and remove tiny particles from the teeth.
• Calcium and phosphorus play a critical role in dental wellness. They give your dog strong bones, teeth, and muscles. For maximum dental benefits, go for foods that contain sufficient amounts of calcium and phosphorus.
• The kibble size also matters for the best dog food for dental health. Large kibble is preferable over small kibble. Dogs chew larger kibbles for longer thus reducing the chances of tartar and plaque build-up.
• The texture is also important for dental well-being. The crunchier the food, the better for the teeth as it aids in removing the tartar. Ingredients like carrots and frozen berries have a fibrous and crunchy texture to support teeth health.
• All dogs need protein for their overall wellness. Protein-rich dry foods are the best for dental health. The first ingredient should always be real recognizable meat. Protein provides amino acids which ensure your dog’s muscles are strong. High-quality protein sources include chicken, beef, and turkey.
• The best foods for dental health should also be balanced for general wellness. They should have antioxidants to protect dogs from free radicals that cause inflammation, essential vitamins like vitamin C and A for immune and skin health, and taurine for heart health.
• The best foods for dental health should also have moderate fat values. Healthy fats provide energy and help keep your dog’s coat and skin beautiful.

Selecting the best food for dental health can be hectic as many brands are claiming to be the best. Our extensive research on the best 4 dog food brands for dental health makes it easier for you. Going for the right food reduces the probability of allergic reactions, unhealthy weight, and digestive problems for your dog’s happiness.

What are the common symptoms of dental problems?

Many tell-tale signs warn you of possible dental issues affecting your dog. These symptoms, if identified early, save you money and prevent chronic health issues. Here are the main symptoms of dental problems:

• Difficulty chewing or dropping food from the mouth.
• Pawing at the mouth.
• Extra teeth or retained baby teeth.
• Broken or loose teeth.
• Bad breath.
• Abnormal chewing or drooling.
• Discolored teeth.
• Poor appetite.
• Pain in or around the mouth.
• Bleeding from the mouth.
• Red and swollen gums.

Be on the lookout for these symptoms as early intervention is key. Routine checkups by the vet help with dental wellness. You should take your furry canine friend for a check-up once or twice a year. 

Which dog breeds are more susceptible to dental problems?

Although all dogs can be affected by dental issues, some dogs are more vulnerable than others. Their high susceptibility stems mainly from the shape of their muzzle and jaw arrangement. Below is a list of dog breeds that are prone to dental problems:

Pugs

These dogs have tiny jaws leading to crowding of the teeth. Crowding results in dental problems including gingivitis, plaque build-up, periodontal disease, and loss of teeth.

Yorkshire Terriers

Many factors like genetic predispositions, hair caught in the mouth, and retained baby teeth cause plaque build-up in Yorkies. Your dog will have a bad breath followed by increased levels of tooth decay.

Chihuahuas

These dogs have small teeth and muzzles and hence crowding of teeth. Retained baby teeth also predispose them to dental problems.

Shelties

Shelties have long, tiny muzzles which expose them to teeth issues. Puppies are born with unbalanced bite patterns; some have underbites while others have overbites. They experience gum pain since the incisors may grow or point outwards. Other teeth may fail to grow or are lost early during the puppy stage. The canines may grow sideways in other cases, leading to a unique dental problem called lance canines.

Greyhounds

Greyhounds are genetically predisposed to tooth problems. They can easily get periodontal diseases during their puppy stage. They are also susceptible to the problems of tooth enamel that lead to painful gums, tooth loss, and root exposure.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

These dog breeds are prone to gingivitis and tartar build-up. Gingivitis leads to periodontitis, tooth decay, tooth loosening, and tooth loss. 

Dachshunds

Dachshunds have tiny teeth and jaws and long, narrow muzzles. These characteristics predispose them to halitosis, gingivitis, and periodontal disease.

Maltese

These dogs are known for their delayed milestones. Maltese puppies get their baby teeth later than other dogs. The teeth also take longer to fall, and other times they do not fall at all. These petite dogs are also susceptible to teeth crowding, plaque and tartar build-up, periodontal disease, early tooth loss, and gingivitis. know more about Maltese Dogs Social life care & diet information.

Chinese Crested

Their hairlessness is directly linked to tooth problems. They have shallow roots, thus exposing them to dental issues. know more about the Chinese Crested Dog Breed Social life care & diet information.

Poodle

Poodles also grow and lose their first teeth later than other dogs. They are susceptible to periodontal disease due to tartar build-up and trapped hair.

While buying or adopting a dog, it is best to know whether they are prone to dental issues. If you love one of these dog breeds, be sure to brush their teeth regularly, visit the vet frequently, and serve teeth-friendly meals.

Factors contributing to dental problems in dogs

Many factors contribute to dental issues. Below are the main ones:

• Age: As dogs grow older, their teeth become weaker thus exposing them to dental diseases.
• Breed: Some dog breeds are more predisposed to dental issues than others. Small breeds face more dental issues compared to their larger counterparts.
• Food: Sticky or sugary foods expose your dog to loads of dental problems including plaque build-up and gingivitis. 

What are the benefits of proper dental care?

Proper dental care from an early age comes with immense benefits for your dog. Here are some of the reasons to start dental hygiene early:

• Avoiding periodontal disease: Serving the right diet and brushing your dog’s teeth regularly lowers the risk of plaque and tartar build-up. Tartar leads to inflammation and gum infection. If untreated, this leads to teeth receding thus exposing gums and eventually causing gingivitis. The first phase of gingivitis is gum infection but it becomes a periodontal disease in the long run.
• Preventing pain: Dental issues come with lots of pain for your dog. The pain can even make it hard for your dog to eat. Proper teeth care lowers the risk of your dog experiencing any pain.
• Preventing bad breath: Kissing a dog with bad breath is a huge turn-off. Poor dental care leads to the growth of bacteria in the teeth resulting in an odorous breath. 
• Preventing tooth loss: Prioritizing dental care for your dog ensures that the roots remain strong and healthy. This also keeps the teeth in their place making it easy for your dog to eat and chew for maximum nutritional benefits. Tooth loss makes it hard for your dog to eat and can lead to malnourishment.
• Preventing organ damage: Bacteria that cause plaque can travel to the major organs including the heart, kidneys, and liver. This causes organ damage in the long run. Proper dental care lowers this risk.
• Dogs are good at hiding dental pain: It is hard to know whether your dog is in pain or not. This is because dogs know how to conceal their dental pain well. However, regular checking of your dog’s teeth helps you identify any dental problem before it becomes chronic.
• Saves you money: Proper tooth care from the puppy stage reduces the onset of dental problems during adulthood and senior stage. This saves you money. Early detection of plaque build-up ensures it is removed before the bacteria spreads and becomes chronic.

What are the best dog food brands for dental health?

There are loads of options to choose from for the best dog food for dental health. However, some brands are the best of the rest. Here’s are “tops” list of the best food for dental health:

• Hill’s Science Diet
• Royal Canin
• Merrick 

The food comes in different sizes and each has a unique price. The average price for our 4 best dog food for dental health is $ 73.99 with prices starting from $ 59.98 and going up to $ 97.98 for bags weighing 17.6 lbs to 28.5 lbs. 

Your dog’s breed and life stage also play a key role when selecting the best dog food for dental health. Puppies have higher energy needs than adults and seniors. They need calorie-dense meals for proper growth and development. Different dog breeds have different nutritional and health needs and hence require unique diets. Below is a list of the best dog food for dental health:

Image	Product	Features	Price
Best Overall	Hill’s Science Diet Adult Oral Care Dry Dog Food Interlocking fiber technology helps clean teeth and tartar Omega 6 fatty acids support skin and coat health Made with natural ingredients	10	Check Price
Best Value	Merrick Lil Plates Small Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Meat Kibble size made specifically for smaller dog breeds Chondroitin supports healthy joints Grain-free recipe	9.9	Check Price
Best Prescription Food	Hill's Prescription Diet t/d Dental Care Chicken Flavor Dry Dog Food, Veterinary Diet Made with a unique kibble shape that helps clean teeth surface Promotes healthy gums by cleaning up the gum line Contains antioxidants to support balanced nutrition	9.8	Check Price
Best Grain-Free	Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Dental Dry Dog Food Crafted for larger breed dogs weighing 22lb and up Clinically proven to reduce tartar buildup Calcium and phosphorus help support healthy teeth and strong bones	9.6	Check Price

Best Overall
1. Hill’s Science Diet Adult Oral Care Dry Dog Food

This delicacy by Hill’s Pet Nutrition is specifically crafted for your dog’s dental wellness. The first production date is September 30th, 2004 and it targets all dog breeds. The main ingredients are Chicken, Whole Grain Wheat, Powdered Cellulose, Brown Rice, and Chicken Fat.

10/10Our Score

• Interlocking fiber technology helps clean teeth and tartar
• Omega 6 fatty acids support skin and coat health
• Made with natural ingredients

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• Consuming this meal cleans your dog’s teeth and freshens their breath with the interlocking fiber technology.
• It supports dental health by reducing tartar and plaque build-up.
• Vitamin C and E work together with powerful antioxidants to improve immune health and protect dogs against free radicals that cause cancer.
• It uses natural and premium ingredients free from artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors.
• The moderate-fat value of 13% and calorie content of 275 Kcal/cup keep your dog in a good shape as it reduces the risk of obesity.
• Beta-carotene supports vision, coat, and skin wellness while taurine keeps the heart strong and healthy.

This Recipe is suitable for dogs that can tolerate grains as it is grain-inclusive. For optimal weight, adjust the feeding amounts. If you are not sure about the amounts to serve, consult the vet. A 7-day transition period minimizes the risk of tummy upsets and allergic reactions. Start with small amounts of Hill’s and increase these amounts gradually until the 7th day when you can fully transition. A 28.5-lb bag costs $ 68.99.

Best Value
2. Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Boost your dog’s dental health with Merrick Lil’ Plates Formula by Merrick Pet Care. The initial production date is January 14th, 2016, and it targets extra small, toy, and small breeds. The major ingredients are Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Sweet Potatoes, and Potatoes.

9.9/10Our Score

• Kibble size made specifically for smaller dog breeds
• Chondroitin supports healthy joints
• Grain-free recipe

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• It features real chicken as the number one ingredient for a high-quality protein value of 30% to support muscle health.
• It is made with probiotics and prebiotic fiber for gut and bowel health.
• It comes in a small kibble and has a crunchy texture to reduce plaque and tartar build-up.
• Merrick Lil Plates is crafted with leading levels of glucosamine and chondroitin for cartilage wellness and has omega 6 and 3 fatty acids for a bright coat and lustrous skin.
• It contains taurine and DHA for cardiac health, cognitive wellness, improved concentration, and easier trainability.
• Consuming this diet supports a healthy weight with L-carnitine that breaks down excess fat into useful energy. 

Merrick Lil Plates Formula is best for dogs with sensitive digestion and grain allergies. The daily intake varies depending on your dog’s weight, with dogs weighing 2 lbs needing ¼ cup. Those weighing 5 lbs need ½ cup, and those with 10 lbs need 1 cup. Body weights ranging from 15-30 lbs need a range of 1 ¼ to 2 cups. A 20-lb bag costs $ 59.98.

Best Prescription Dog Food
3. Hill’s Prescription Diet Dental Care Dry Dog Food

Give your dog the best teeth ever with Hill’s prescription Formula by Hill’s Prescription Diet. The initial manufacturing date is July 8th, 2010, and it targets all dog breeds. The key ingredients include Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Corn, Chicken By-Product Meal, and Powdered Cellulose.

9.8/10Our Score

• Made with a unique kibble shape that helps clean teeth surface
• Promotes healthy gums by cleaning up the gum line
• Contains antioxidants to support balanced nutrition

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• It comes in a unique kibble size and shape to clean the tooth surface by scrubbing away plaque in the mouth, thus supporting systemic wellness.
• It uses fiber matrix technology to minimize the risks of plaque and tartar build-up.
• Consuming this diet lowers the problems of bad breath and promotes overall wellness.
• It is crafted with S+OX SHIELD to be in line with unique nutrient standards that promote urinary health and lower the risks of calcium oxalate crystals and struvite.
• This product requires authorization from the vet. 

Hill’s Prescription Formula is ideal for dogs that can tolerate grains or have pea allergies. Dogs weighing 5 lbs need a daily intake of ⅞ cups, while those weighing 10 lbs need 1 ⅜ cup. Body weights ranging from 15-100 lbs require a range of 1 ⅞ cups to 8 cups. A gradual transition period of 7 days ensures your dog fully adapts to the new dog food. A 25-lb bag costs $ 97.98.

Best Grain-Free
4. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Dental Dry Dog Food

Give your dog healthy teeth and a sweet smile with Royal Canin Veterinary Formula by Royal Canin Veterinary Diet. The first production date is May 2nd, 2012, and it targets all dog breeds. The primary ingredients are Brewers Rice, Chicken By-Product Meal, Corn, Chicken Fat, and Wheat Gluten.

9.6/10Our Score

• Crafted for larger breed dogs weighing 22lb and up
• Clinically proven to reduce tartar buildup
• Calcium and phosphorus help support healthy teeth and strong bones

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• This veterinary-exclusive formula is crafted specifically for dogs susceptible to plaque and tartar build-up.
• The Veterinary Oral Health Council approves it as the best for dental care. 
• The unique kibble creates a teeth-brushing effect when your dog chews on it to remove tartar and plaque build-up.
• It has omegas for coat and skin health. In addition, chondroitin and glucosamine support joint health.
• This premium meal is an excellent choice for dental health as it is also packed with calcium and phosphorus for strong bones and teeth.

Royal Canin Veterinary Formula suits dogs with pea allergies and those that can tolerate grains. The feeding guidelines only guide you, but you should adjust the amounts according to your dog’s age, weight, activity levels, and breed type. Avoid table scraps and other human food as they are not nutritionally balanced for your dog’s wellbeing. A 17.6-lb bag costs $ 68.99.

What are the facts that you should know about dog foods for Dental Health?

Selecting the best dog food for dental health impacts positively on your dog’s overall well-being. Here are the facts to know about dog foods for dental health:

• Dog foods for dental health have a Veterinary Oral Health Council seal on the dog food label. The seal proves that the food has been approved by the council and is best for dental wellness. 
• Dog foods for dental health should have teeth-friendly ingredients. Read the ingredients list carefully. Avoid dog foods with added sugars as sugar is the main cause of cavities. Some ingredients like carrots and frozen berries have a crunchy texture to support dental health.
• Protein is an important component in dog foods for dental health. Muscle support is critical for all dogs. Go for high-quality protein sources, including fish and turkey. The protein source should be the number one ingredient. The more real and identifiable meat sources in the primary ingredients, the better it is for your dog.
• The kibble size for dog foods for dental health is important. Larger kibbles are the best as they make dogs chew for longer thus cleaning their teeth and lowering the chances of plaque and tartar build-up.
• Antioxidants, fiber, prebiotics, probiotics, taurine, and L-carnitine also come in handy for dental health. They support immune, digestive, and heart wellness.
• Your dog also needs fat to remain energetic. In addition, fats are excellent sources of omega fatty acids which nourish the skin for an attractive look.

What are the best dog foods for Dental Health according to dog sizes?

Your dog’s size plays a critical role when choosing the right foods for dental health.

The Best Dog Food for Dental Health for Small-Sized Dogs

• Purina Pro Plan Dental Health DH Veterinary Diet Small Bites Dry Food: This veterinary diet is formulated to reduce plaque and tartar build-up. It has the Veterinary Oral Health Council’s seal for the best dog food for dental care.

The Best Dog Food for Dental Care for Medium-Sized Dogs

• Eukanuba Medium Breed Adult Dry Food: The  3D DentaDefense promotes dental wellness by minimizing the risks of tartar build-up. It also boosts muscle and joint health with premium protein, chondroitin, and glucosamine.

The Best Dog Food for Dental Health for Large Dogs

• Holistic Select Puppy Health Large & Giant Breeds Dry Food: It has calcium and phosphorus for strong bones and teeth. Antioxidants, taurine, and glucosamine work together for your dog’s overall wellness.

What are the best dog foods for Dental Health with different ingredients?

The Best Dog Food for Dental Health with pumpkin.

• Orijen Grain-Free Original Dry Food: Pumpkin provides fiber to improve the texture of food and hold the kibble together thus reducing the chances of tartar build-up.

The Best Dog Food for Dental Health with Carrots

• Rachel Ray Nutrish Small Breed Dry Food: Carrots also make the dog food crunchier to boost dental health. 

What should dogs eat to keep their teeth clean?

Brushing is the main tool to use for dental health. However, there are other foods that dogs should consume for strong and healthy teeth. Here are the best five:

Fruits and vegetables

Serving fruits and vegetables as snacks for your dog promotes dental wellness. Fruits and vegetables have a crunchy texture and help remove tartar and plaque as your dog chews on them. Go for healthy fruits and vegetables including apples, carrots, and pumpkin.

Raw meaty bones

Their texture and ability to flex around the teeth make raw bones resistant to bacterial plaque and build-up of debris. Bone size matters as large bones are choking hazards. Avoid cooked bones as they can easily splinter, causing injuries in the mouth.

Dental chews

Dental chews are dog treats formulated specifically for dental health. They contain ingredients that ensure the teeth are healthy and your dog has a fresh breath. They come in different flavors and help develop strong jaw muscles. Furthermore, dental chews can come as toys for entertainment and rewarding your dog.

Yogurt or kefir

Choosing yogurt or kefir for your dog lowers the risk of tartar and plaque build-up. These two products have probiotics to boost gut and immune wellness. For best results, apply the yogurt directly to your dog’s gums. These prevents bacterial growth around the tooth area. know more about can dogs eat yogurt safely?

Specific dry dog food

Most dog food manufacturers have formulated foods that are best for dental health. Chewing on dry foods also supports strong teeth. A big and hard kibble size encourages chewing for longer for better teeth.

What can you do if your dog is suffering from dental issues?

Some dental problems are genetic and hence unavoidable. Here’s what to do if your dog is suffering from dental issues:

• Serve good-quality dog food: Avoid foods that can escalate the dental problem. Go for high-quality dog food with premium ingredients. Dry foods with calcium and phosphorus are the best for your sick dog.
• Avoid hard bones as chew toys: Dogs with dental problems have weak teeth and hard bones can lead to tooth loss as the roots are no longer strong. 
• Brush their teeth regularly: Frequent brushing removes debris from the teeth to reduce the risk of bacterial growth and tartar build-up.
• Take your dog for an annual oral examination and cleaning: Constant examination and cleaning reduce the chances of plaque or tartar which further escalate teeth problems in dogs.
• Give them soft chew toys: Soft chew toys are easy to chew and thus excellent for dogs with dental problems. 
• Give your dog anti-inflammatory pain relief medications: These medications reduce the intensity of pain. Be sure to consult the vet before purchasing any medications.
• Give special mouthwash: Add a special dog-safe mouthwash to your dog’s water for a clean mouth and fresh breath.