๐Ÿ† Complete Buyer's Guide ยท Dog Care Products

What to Know About Dog Dental Chews for Dogs with Thick Coats

Dogs with thick coats like Golden Retrievers and Huskies are prone to dental issues. We compared the top VOHC-accepted chews, led by Greenies, to help you choose.

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.

Greenies Regular Dog Dental Chews โ˜… Top Pick: Greenies Regular Dog Dental Chews Check Price on Amazon →
VOHC Accepted
Dental Efficacy Standard
5 Sizes Available
Sizing Options
80% of Dogs Accept
Palatability Rate
2 to 4 Inches
Chew Length Range
โšก Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: Greenies Regular Dog Dental Chews. These chews have the VOHC seal for plaque and tartar control.
  • Best Vet-Trusted Style: Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Oral Hygiene Chews. These chews use an enzymatic system to reduce plaque and freshen breath.
  • Best Budget: Purina DentaLife Daily Oral Care Dental Chews. These chews are affordable and have a porous texture that helps clean teeth.
  • Best for Seniors: Zesty Paws Dental Chews for Dogs. These chews contain added probiotics and natural ingredients to support oral and digestive.
  • Best Chewable: PetLab Co. Dental Chews for Dogs. These chews are highly palatable and made with natural ingredients.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Quick answer

The best overall pick is Greenies Regular Dog Dental Chews, which have the VOHC seal of acceptance for plaque and tartar control and a texture that works well for dogs with thick coats. For a budget-friendly option, consider Purina DentaLife Daily Oral Care Dental Chews. If your dog has sensitivities, Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Oral Hygiene Chews offer a gentle enzymatic formula.

What to consider for Dog Dental Chews For Dogs With Thick Coats

Dogs with thick coats, such as Golden Retrievers, Huskies, and German Shepherds, are often prone to dental issues due to their breed’s genetics and mouth structure. Thick-coated breeds may also have a higher risk of gum disease if dental hygiene is neglected. When choosing dental chews, look for products that are appropriately sized for your dog’s weight and chewing strength. The chew should be durable enough to provide mechanical scraping action but not so hard that it risks tooth fracture. Additionally, consider chews with added ingredients like chlorophyll or enzymes that help freshen breath and reduce bacteria. Always supervise your dog during chewing to prevent choking hazards.

What to look for in a health product (dental, probiotic, joint, allergy or calming supplement)

For dental chews, look for the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) seal, which indicates the product has been clinically proven to reduce plaque and tartar. For joint supplements, seek products with glucosamine and chondroitin at meaningful levels, backed by an NASC quality seal. Probiotics should list a specific CFU count and strain. Always choose products with clear manufacturing standards and avoid those with vague proprietary blends. Consult your veterinarian to ensure the product is appropriate for your dog’s specific health needs.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated ingredient quality and safety based on publicly available information.
  • Prioritized products with the VOHC seal for dental efficacy.
  • Considered size and texture suitability for dogs with thick coats.
  • Reviewed brand reputation and manufacturing standards.
  • Checked for added health benefits such as breath freshening or enzymatic action.
  • Ensured products are widely available and affordable.
  • Included options for different budgets and dog sizes.
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

  • Avoid products claiming to cure or prevent dental disease without scientific evidence.
  • Do not use human dental products or medications for dogs.
  • Avoid chews with vague proprietary blends that do not list ingredient amounts.
  • Do not exceed the recommended daily dose as stated on the product label.

For more guides, visit our dog guides, dog health, and dog nutrition sections.

Why this matters

Dogs with thick coats, such as Golden Retrievers and Huskies, are often predisposed to dental issues, making regular use of VOHC-accepted dental chews a proactive step in maintaining oral health.

The Options

Types Explained

VOHC-Certified Dental Chews

These chews have undergone clinical testing and earned the VOHC seal for effectiveness in reducing plaque and tartar. They are the gold standard for dental care.

Best for: Dogs with existing dental issues or owners wanting proven results.

Enzymatic Dental Chews

These contain enzymes like glucose oxidase that help break down plaque and bacteria. They are often gentler on the stomach.

Best for: Dogs with sensitive stomachs or those who need extra breath freshening.

Natural Dental Chews

Made from natural ingredients like sweet potato or chicken, these chews are free from artificial additives. They may have limited dental efficacy.

Best for: Owners seeking a more natural option for their dogs.

Probiotic Dental Chews

These combine dental cleaning with probiotics to support oral and gut health. They help balance bacteria in the mouth.

Best for: Dogs prone to bad breath or digestive issues.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
Greenies Regular Dog Dental Chews
Best Overall

Greenies Regular Dog Dental Chews

View on Amazon

These chews have the VOHC seal for plaque and tartar control. Their unique texture helps clean teeth effectively, even for dogs with thick coats. However, they contain wheat gluten, which may not suit dogs with grain sensitivities. They are widely available and come in various sizes.

#2
Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Oral Hygiene Chews
Best Vet-Trusted Style

Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Oral Hygiene Chews

View on Amazon

These chews use an enzymatic system to reduce plaque and freshen breath. They are highly digestible and gentle on the stomach. A limitation is that they are more expensive than some alternatives. They work well for dogs with thick coats who need extra oral care.

#3
Purina DentaLife Daily Oral Care Dental Chews
Best Budget

Purina DentaLife Daily Oral Care Dental Chews

View on Amazon

These chews are affordable and have a porous texture that helps clean teeth. They are designed for daily use and are accepted by many dogs. However, they may not be as effective as VOHC-certified products. They are a good entry-level option for thick-coated breeds.

#4
Zesty Paws Dental Chews for Dogs
Best for Seniors

Zesty Paws Dental Chews for Dogs

View on Amazon

These chews contain added probiotics and natural ingredients to support oral and digestive health. They are softer, making them suitable for senior dogs with thick coats. A trade-off is that they may not provide as much mechanical cleaning as harder chews.

#5
PetLab Co. Dental Chews for Dogs
Best Chewable

PetLab Co. Dental Chews for Dogs

View on Amazon

These chews are highly palatable and made with natural ingredients. They help reduce plaque and tartar while freshening breath. One limitation is that they are relatively new to the market, so long-term data is limited. They are a good choice for picky eaters with thick coats.

Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Size and Texture

Choose a chew size appropriate for your dog's weight to ensure safe chewing. The texture should be abrasive enough to scrape plaque but not so hard that it risks tooth fracture.

02

VOHC Seal

Products with the Veterinary Oral Health Council seal have been clinically proven to reduce plaque and tartar. This is a reliable indicator of efficacy.

03

Ingredients

Look for natural ingredients and avoid artificial preservatives or colors. Some chews include enzymes or probiotics for added oral health benefits.

04

Digestibility

Dental chews should be highly digestible to prevent gastrointestinal upset. Check for digestibility claims or ingredients like rice flour that are easy on the stomach.

05

Breed Specific Needs

Dogs with thick coats may have a higher risk of dental issues. Consider chews that also support fresh breath and gum health, and consult your vet for breed-specific recommendations.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Daily Chewing Routine

Offer one dental chew per day as part of your dog's oral hygiene routine. Supervise your dog while chewing to ensure they do not swallow large pieces. Adjust the size based on your dog's weight and chewing habits.

Storage and Freshness

Store dental chews in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness. Keep them in their original packaging or an airtight container. Check expiration dates before use.

Monitoring Oral Health

Regularly inspect your dog's teeth and gums for signs of plaque buildup, redness, or bad breath. Schedule annual veterinary dental checkups. Dental chews are a supplement to, not a replacement for, professional cleaning.

Pro tip

Rotate between two different VOHC-accepted dental chews to keep your dog interested and ensure comprehensive cleaning of different tooth surfaces.

Frequently asked questions

Do dog dental chews really work?
Many dental chews, especially those with the VOHC seal, have been shown to reduce plaque and tartar buildup when used regularly. However, they are not a substitute for brushing or professional dental cleanings. Effectiveness varies by product and your dog's chewing habits. Always choose a product that fits your dog's size and chewing strength.
How should I dose dental chews by weight?
Follow the manufacturer's guidelines based on your dog's weight. Most chews have size categories (e.g., small, medium, large). Giving a chew that is too small may pose a choking hazard, while one that is too large may be difficult to chew. For dogs with thick coats, ensure the chew is proportionate to their mouth size.
When should I see a vet about my dog's dental health?
If you notice persistent bad breath, bleeding gums, loose teeth, or difficulty eating, consult your veterinarian. These could be signs of periodontal disease or other oral health issues. Regular veterinary checkups are important, especially for breeds prone to dental problems.
What should I look for in ingredient quality?
Look for chews with natural ingredients and avoid artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. The NASC seal indicates quality manufacturing standards. For dental chews, the VOHC seal is key. Check for specific active ingredients like enzymes or probiotics that support oral health.
What is the NASC seal and why is it important?
The NASC (National Animal Supplement Council) seal indicates that a product meets quality standards for manufacturing, labeling, and adverse event reporting. It is especially important for supplements like joint or probiotic chews. While not all dental chews carry this seal, it adds confidence in product safety.
Can joint chews also support dental health?
Joint chews typically focus on glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health and do not directly benefit dental health. However, some all-in-one chews may combine dental cleaning ingredients with joint support. For targeted dental care, choose a dedicated dental chew.
Do probiotics in dental chews help gut health?
Probiotic dental chews can introduce beneficial bacteria to the mouth and gut, potentially improving digestion and oral microbiome balance. However, the CFU count may be lower than in dedicated probiotic supplements. They can be a convenient addition to your dog's routine.
Are dental chews safe for all dogs?
Most dental chews are safe when used as directed, but always supervise your dog. Avoid chews that are too hard, as they can cause tooth fractures. Dogs with certain health conditions should consult a vet first. Introduce new chews gradually to monitor for allergies or digestive upset.
What safety concerns should I watch for?
Choking hazards, gastrointestinal blockages, and tooth fractures are the main risks. Always choose the correct size and texture for your dog. If your dog swallows large pieces without chewing, consider a different product. Stop use if you notice vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of discomfort.
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 Dog Care Products, 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.

Keep Reading

More Dog Care Products guides

Insulated Dog Jackets: 4 Best Picks Reviewed for 2026View picks โ†’Interactive Dog Toys for Boredom: Our ShortlistView picks โ†’Interactive Dog Toys, ComparedView picks โ†’2026 Puppy Fence Guide: 5 Top Invisible Dog Fences ReviewedView picks โ†’Invisible Dog Fence for Sensitive Stomachs: 2026 Top Pick ReviewedView picks โ†’Invisible Dog Fence under 50 That Hold UpView picks โ†’

Sources and further reading

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.