Why dental health matters

Plaque builds up on a dog's teeth every day, the same as it does for us. Left alone, it hardens into tartar, which can lead to inflamed gums, bad breath and, over time, more serious dental problems. Good dental care is one of the simplest ways to support a dog's overall health, and it does not need to be complicated.

Natural chewing: the mechanical approach

Chewing is the most natural way a dog cleans its own teeth. The physical action of gnawing on a suitably firm chew scrapes plaque from the tooth surface before it has a chance to harden. This is why long lasting natural chews, antlers, horns, hooves, tripe sticks and yak bars among them, are so often recommended alongside a raw diet.

Not every chew is right for every dog. A chew that is too hard can wear down teeth over time, and one that is too soft may not last long enough to make a difference. As a general rule, choose a chew sized appropriately for your dog and always supervise chewing, particularly the first few times with something new.

Dental supplements and care products: the supporting approach

Where chewing works mechanically, dental supplements work alongside it. This category covers a few different formats:

• Dental powders, added to food, formulated to support oral health from the inside.
• Herbal oral sprays, applied directly to help freshen breath and support gum health.
• Probiotic dental care, which works with the mouth's natural bacteria rather than against it.
• Dental wipes and finger pads, for owners who want to physically clean their dog's teeth by hand.

These products are not a replacement for chewing or for a vet dental check, but they are a genuinely useful addition, particularly for dogs who are not big natural chewers, or as extra support alongside a chew based routine.

Which does my dog need?

For most dogs, the honest answer is both. A natural chew a few times a week handles the mechanical side, and a dental powder, spray or wipe fills in the gaps day to day. Watch for the usual signs it is worth paying closer attention: persistent bad breath, yellow or brown build up on the teeth, red or inflamed gums, excess drooling, or a dog who seems reluctant to chew at all. Any of these are worth a vet check as well as a look at your dog's dental routine.