Our editorial team knows that Pugs have unique dental needs due to their short, flat snouts and crowded teeth. Choosing the right dental chew is crucial to prevent plaque buildup and maintain oral health in this brachycephalic breed. We’ve researched the best options that are safe and effective for Pug mouths, focusing on size, texture, and digestibility.
🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dogs
★ Top Pick: Greenies Veterinarian-Recommended Adult Natural Den…
Pug dental chews: what to buy in 2024
Find the best dental chews for Pugs, including Greenies Veterinarian-Recommended treats, to keep your pup's teeth clean and breath fresh.
Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.
★ Top Pick: Greenies Veterinarian-Recommended Adult Natural Den…
⚡ Key takeaways
- Our Favourite: Greenies Veterinarian-Recommended Adult Natural Dental Dog Treats. These are sized perfectly for small mouths like Pugs and have a chewy texture that helps s.
- Best Quality: Virbac CET Veggiedent FR3SH Tartar Control Chews. Designed for small dogs, these have a unique vegetable-based texture that reduces plaque a.
- Best on a Budget: Whimzees Wellness Brushzees Natural Dog Dental Treat. These all-natural, grain-free chews come in a small size ideal for Pugs.
- Best for Fussy Ones: ORAVET Dental Chews. Pugs can be picky, but these have a palatable flavor that most enjoy.
- Runner-Up: Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Pet Dental Water Additive. This durable, flavor-infused chew is textured to clean teeth and massage gums.
At a Glance
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best For | |
|---|---|---|
| Greenies Veterinarian-Recommended Adult Natur… | Our Favourite | Check price → |
| Virbac CET Veggiedent FR3SH Tartar Control Ch… | Best Quality | Check price → |
| Whimzees Wellness Brushzees Natural Dog Denta… | Best on a Budget | Check price → |
| ORAVET Dental Chews | Best for Fussy Ones | Check price → |
| Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Pet Dental Water … | Runner-Up | Check price → |
The Rankings
Top 5 Picks
#1
Our Favourite
Greenies Veterinarian-Recommended Adult Natural Dental Dog Treats
These are sized perfectly for small mouths like Pugs and have a chewy texture that helps scrub teeth. They are highly digestible and accepted by most Pugs, making dental care easy.
#2
Best Quality
Virbac CET Veggiedent FR3SH Tartar Control Chews
Designed for small dogs, these have a unique vegetable-based texture that reduces plaque and tartar without harsh ingredients. The shape and size are suitable for Pug jaws.
#3
Best on a Budget
Whimzees Wellness Brushzees Natural Dog Dental Treat
These all-natural, grain-free chews come in a small size ideal for Pugs. The ridged texture helps clean teeth while being highly digestible and affordable.
#4
Best for Fussy Ones
ORAVET Dental Chews
Pugs can be picky, but these have a palatable flavor that most enjoy. The small size fits their mouth, and the unique formula helps reduce plaque buildup.
#5
Runner-Up
Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Pet Dental Water Additive
This durable, flavor-infused chew is textured to clean teeth and massage gums. It's sized for small breeds and is long-lasting, which is great for Pugs who like to chew.
Before You Buy
Key Buying Factors
01
Size and Shape
Choose chews labeled 'small' or 'teacup' to prevent choking. Avoid long, stick-like shapes that could get lodged in a Pug's throat. Opt for curved or twisted shapes that are easy to hold.
02
Texture and Hardness
Pugs have delicate jaws, so avoid extremely hard chews that could fracture teeth. Look for chewy or slightly abrasive textures that clean without being too rigid.
03
Calorie Content
Pugs are prone to obesity, so monitor calorie intake. Choose low-calorie options (under 50 calories per treat) and adjust meal portions accordingly.
04
Digestibility
Brachycephalic breeds can have sensitive stomachs. Opt for highly digestible chews made from natural ingredients to avoid gastrointestinal upset.
05
Dental Claims and Approval
Look for chews that have the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) acceptance for plaque or tartar control, as this indicates proven effectiveness.
Living With It
Care, Cost and Maintenance
How Often to Give Dental Chews
Offer one dental chew per day as part of your Pug's oral care routine. Always supervise chewing to prevent any potential choking hazards.
Combine with Brushing
Dental chews are not a substitute for brushing. Use them as a supplement to regular tooth brushing with a pet-safe toothpaste to maintain optimal oral health.
Store Properly
Keep chews in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness. Discard any chews that become too small or brittle to prevent swallowing.
Frequently asked questions
Can Pugs safely eat dental chews given their flat faces?
Yes, as long as you choose chews specifically sized for small dogs and supervise them. Avoid chews that are too large or hard, which can be difficult for Pugs to grip or chew safely.
How many dental chews can I give my Pug per day?
Stick to one chew per day, as many dental chews contain calories that can contribute to weight gain in Pugs. Adjust their daily food intake to account for the treat.
Are grain-free dental chews better for Pugs?
Not necessarily, but if your Pug has food sensitivities, grain-free options may be beneficial. Always consult your veterinarian for dietary advice tailored to your dog's health.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency
How we made this guide
How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Dogs, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.
How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.
Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.
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