🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

Choosing Dog Dental Chews for Maltese Dogs

80% of Maltese show dental disease by age 3. See why VOHC-accepted Greenies Teenie tops our list for daily plaque control.

ProPawPicks Editorial Team

ProPawPicks Reviewer

Updated

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🐾New to the breed? Read our full Maltese breed guide for temperament, care, health and lifespan.

★ Top Pick: Greenies Teenie Dental Dog Treats Check Price on Amazon →

80%

of dogs show tartar reduction with daily chews (VOHC)

2 to 5

minutes of chewing per treat recommended

5 to 15 lbs

ideal weight range for Teenie size

12+

VOHC-accepted products for small dogs

⚡ Key takeaways

Best Overall: Greenies Teenie Dental Dog Treats. These VOHC-accepted chews are specifically sized for dogs 5 to 15 pounds, making them idea.
Best Vet-Trusted Style: Virbac C.E.T. VeggieDent Fr3sh Tartar Control Chews. These vegetarian chews are softer than many dental bones, reducing the risk of tooth damag.
Best Budget: Purina DentaLife Small Dog Dental Chews. A cost-effective option with a clinically proven shape that reduces tartar buildup.
Best for Seniors: Zesty Paws Dental Treats for Small Dogs. These chews are soft-baked and easy on aging teeth, plus they include probiotics and cocon.
Best Chewable: VetriScience Perio Plus Small Breed Dental Chews. These chews are formulated with probiotics, enzymes, and CoQ10 to support oral health from.

At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Product	Best For
Greenies Teenie Dental Dog Treats	Best Overall	Check price →
Virbac C.E.T. VeggieDent Fr3sh Tartar Control…	Best Vet-Trusted Style	Check price →
Purina DentaLife Small Dog Dental Chews	Best Budget	Check price →
Zesty Paws Dental Treats for Small Dogs	Best for Seniors	Check price →
VetriScience Perio Plus Small Breed Dental Ch…	Best Chewable	Check price →

Quick answer

Our top pick is Greenies Teenie Dental Dog Treats, designed for dogs 5 to 15 pounds, with a VOHC seal for plaque and tartar control. For a budget-friendly option, consider Purina DentaLife Small Dog Dental Chews. If your Maltese has sensitive teeth, Virbac C.E.T. VeggieDent Fr3sh Tartar Control Chews offer a softer texture.

What to consider for Dog Dental Chews For Maltese Dogs

Maltese dogs have small mouths and are prone to dental disease, so size and texture are critical. Chews should be small enough to avoid choking but effective enough to scrape teeth. Look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal, which indicates proven efficacy. Also consider calorie content, as Maltese can gain weight easily. Avoid hard chews that may fracture teeth, and always supervise chewing.

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

For dental chews, the VOHC seal is the gold standard. For supplements like probiotics or joint support, look for the NASC quality seal, which verifies ingredient sourcing and manufacturing. Check that active ingredients are listed with specific amounts (e.g., CFU for probiotics, glucosamine mg for joints). Dosing should match your dog’s weight, and products should be from reputable companies with clear manufacturing standards.

How we chose these picks

We evaluated products based on published ingredient lists and manufacturer information.
We prioritized chews with the VOHC seal for dental health claims.
We considered size, texture, and safety for small breed dogs like Maltese.
We reviewed customer feedback for palatability and digestibility.
We assessed calorie content and overall nutritional profile.
We ensured products are widely available and from established brands.
We excluded chews with artificial colors or preservatives when possible.
Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

Products claiming to cure or prevent dental disease without VOHC backing.
Human dental products, which can contain xylitol or be too hard.
Vague proprietary blends with no ingredient amounts.
Exceeding the recommended daily dose, which can cause digestive upset.
Chews that are too hard for small dogs, risking tooth fractures.

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

Why this matters

Maltese dogs have a high prevalence of dental disease, with up to 80% showing signs by age three. Daily use of a VOHC-accepted dental chew can significantly reduce plaque and tartar, but it should complement, not replace, regular veterinary dental care.

The Options

Types Explained

VOHC-Accepted Dental Chews

These have undergone clinical testing to prove they reduce plaque or tartar. They are the most reliable choice for dental health.

Best for: Maltese with existing dental issues or for proactive care

Soft Dental Chews

Made with softer ingredients like sweet potato or gelatin, these are gentle on teeth and suitable for seniors or dogs with sensitive mouths.

Best for: Senior Maltese or those with dental sensitivity

Probiotic-Infused Chews

Combine dental cleaning with gut health benefits. They often contain probiotics and enzymes to support oral and digestive health.

Key Buying Factors

Size and Texture

Maltese have small mouths, so chews must be appropriately sized to prevent choking. Texture should be abrasive enough to clean teeth but not so hard that it risks tooth fractures. Look for chews labeled for small or toy breeds.

VOHC Seal

The Veterinary Oral Health Council seal indicates that a product has been tested and proven to reduce plaque or tartar. This is the most reliable indicator of efficacy for dental chews.

Calorie Content

Maltese are prone to obesity, so consider the calorie density of dental chews. Many treats add 20 to 50 calories each, which can add up. Adjust your dog's daily food intake accordingly.

Ingredient Quality

Look for chews with natural ingredients and avoid artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Some Maltese have food sensitivities, so limited ingredient formulas may be beneficial.

Digestibility

Chews should be highly digestible to avoid gastrointestinal upset. Products made from gelatin, vegetable starches, or rice flour are often easier on the stomach than rawhide or hard bones.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Daily Routine

Offer one dental chew per day, ideally after a meal. Supervise your Maltese while chewing to ensure they don't swallow large pieces. Gradually introduce new chews to avoid digestive upset.

Combine with Brushing

Dental chews are not a replacement for brushing. For best results, brush your Maltese's teeth at least three times per week using a pet-safe toothpaste. Chews can help reduce plaque between brushings.

Monitor Weight

Because dental chews add calories, monitor your Maltese's weight and adjust their regular food portions. If your dog is overweight, choose low-calorie chews or reduce meal size accordingly.

Pro tip

To maximize the dental benefit, give the chew after a meal when your Maltese's mouth is already producing saliva, which helps the chew's abrasive action. Also, rotate between two different VOHC-accepted chews to keep your dog interested and ensure varied texture exposure.

Frequently asked questions

Do dental chews really work for Maltese dogs?

Yes, many dental chews can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup when used daily. The most effective ones carry the VOHC seal, which means they have been clinically tested. However, results vary by dog, and chews should be part of a comprehensive dental care routine that includes regular brushing and veterinary checkups. For Maltese, which are prone to dental disease, consistent use can make a noticeable difference.

How many dental chews can I give my Maltese per day?

Most dental chews recommend one chew per day for dogs under a certain weight, typically up to 15 pounds for small breeds. Always follow the package instructions based on your dog's weight. Overfeeding can lead to weight gain and digestive issues. If your Maltese is very small (under 5 pounds), you may need to give half a chew or choose a product specifically for tiny breeds.

When should I see a vet about my Maltese's teeth?

You should schedule a veterinary dental exam at least once a year. Signs that warrant a sooner visit include bad breath, red or bleeding gums, difficulty eating, pawing at the mouth, or visible tartar buildup. Maltese are prone to periodontal disease, so early intervention is key. Your vet can recommend professional cleanings or treatments as needed.

What is the NASC seal and why does it matter?

The NASC (National Animal Supplement Council) seal indicates that a product manufacturer has passed a quality audit and follows strict guidelines for ingredient sourcing, manufacturing, and labeling. While not all dental chews carry this seal (it is more common for supplements), it is a sign of quality and transparency. For dental chews, the VOHC seal is more directly relevant.

Should I choose a joint supplement chew or a dental chew for my Maltese?

It depends on your dog's needs. If your Maltese has dental issues, prioritize a VOHC-accepted dental chew. If they have joint problems like luxating patella (common in the breed), a joint supplement with glucosamine and chondroitin may be beneficial. Some products combine both, but they may not have the VOHC seal. Consult your vet to determine the most pressing need.

Can probiotics in dental chews improve my Maltese's gut health?

Probiotic-infused dental chews can support digestive health, but the CFU (colony-forming units) are often lower than in dedicated probiotic supplements. They may help maintain a healthy gut flora, but for specific digestive issues, a targeted probiotic might be more effective. Always check the label for the specific probiotic strain and amount.

Are dental chews safe for Maltese puppies?

Most dental chews are designed for adult dogs (usually over 6 months old) because puppies have developing teeth and jaws. For Maltese puppies, wait until their adult teeth have fully come in, around 6 to 8 months. Then choose a soft, small chew designed for puppies or small breeds. Always supervise to prevent choking.

What ingredients should I avoid in dental chews for Maltese?

Avoid chews with xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. Also steer clear of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, as they may cause allergies or digestive upset. Rawhide is not recommended for small dogs due to choking risk and poor digestibility. Instead, look for natural ingredients like sweet potato, rice flour, or gelatin.

Can dental chews cause tooth fractures in Maltese?

Yes, if the chew is too hard. Maltese have small, delicate teeth, and hard chews like antlers, bones, or hard nylon can cause fractures. Stick to chews that are flexible or have a soft texture. VOHC-accepted chews are generally safe in this regard, but always supervise and discontinue if you notice any damage.

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.

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