Written and reviewed by Dr Jill McMaster BVM&S MBA MRCVS, Veterinary Surgeon and in-house expert at BorrowMyDoggy
Keeping your dog’s teeth in good condition not only benefits their oral health, but as dental disease can cause health problems throughout the body it helps their whole body health. The ideal way to keep your dog’s teeth in pawfect condition is by teeth brushing twice a day, but as well as that (or instead if brushing just isn’t an option), there are lots of different dental toys on the market that claim to improve your pooch’s gnashers.
What should you look for when getting your doggo a dental toy?
- Although we know a lot of pups love a good chew, avoid going with anything that’s too tough for their teeth. As a general rule you shouldn’t give your pooch anything that you can’t indent with your fingernail, or it might be a bit tough on their teeth and lead to damage or breakage.
- Make sure you go for the right size. Toys that are too small for dogs can be dangerous, and ones too big can be very difficult and uncomfortable to chew. Always supervise your pooch with a toy, and take it away from them if it becomes damaged.
- Particularly for puppies, dental toys that cool down when they go in the fridge can be really useful for teething gums!
Here are some dental toys that are currently available in shops and online:
KONG - Dental Stick
Price - £6.60 (medium)
What we love -
- The ridges help to clean teeth and gums
- Grooves can be filled with your pooch’s favourite treat
- Made with natural rubber
Best for -
- Any size of dog with small, medium and large available
- A puppy-friendly version is also available
Arm & Hammer, Treadz, Dental Toys For Strong Chewers
Price - £8.62 (large)
What we love -
- Dishwasher Safe
- Grooves to help clean teeth
- Dispenses treats to keep your pooch interested
Best for -
- Strong chewers (but remember that no chew is indestructible, and dogs should always be supervised when chewing and should have damaged chews taken away from them)
- Various sizes of adult dogs with small and large options
Biosafe Puppy Toys Ring
Price - £4.00
What we love -
- BioCote technology to protect the toy from bugs
- Massages gums as your pooch chews
- Different designs and colours available
Best for -
- Puppies and small dogs
- Teething
The information in this article should only be used as a guide, and should never replace advice or treatment given by your veterinarian. If you ever have any concerns about your pet’s health you should speak with your veterinary practice.
