Looking after your dog’s oral hygiene can be a real struggle - it’s difficult to brush your pup’s teeth, flossing is almost impossible, and what on earth can you do about that stinky breath?! Many pet owners turn to chews and sticks, but are dental chews bad for dogs, or safe?
Today, we’ll talk about how safe and healthy dental chews really are for your pup, and let you know about the important dog dental sticks side effects to look out for. We’ll help you decide whether dental chews are the right way to manage your pup’s day-to-day oral care.
Here at Mighty Munch, we’re big fans of dental sticks! As long as you’re using our premium dog dental chews as directed, they’re the best way to protect your dog’s oral health, fight harmful bacteria, keep your pup’s jaw strong, and save big on expensive vet bills down the road.
Overview of Dog Dental Chews
Dog dental chews have become a game-changer for many pet owners. They’re an effective way of reducing plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. For dog owners wondering how to prevent dental disease in dogs, dental sticks are a great option.
Are dental sticks good for dogs teeth? Yes! Dog dental sticks are specially formulated with ingredients that help reduce plaque and tartar. They often contain enzymes or abrasive surfaces to clean teeth as your dog chews, and also have ingredients that help to freshen your pup’s breath.
Key Benefits of Dog Dental Sticks
So, what can dental sticks actually do for your dog’s oral health? Let's explore the key benefits of dog dental sticks and why they are a valuable addition to your pup's oral care routine.
Promoting Better Breath
Let’s face it, dogs don’t usually have the freshest breath! Dental sticks are a great way to combat your pup’s stinky breath, which is often caused by a buildup of bad bacteria in your dog’s mouth.
Dental sticks contain ingredients that neutralise these bacteria, leading to fresher breath. Regular use of canine dental sticks can significantly improve your dog's breath, making those kisses so much more enjoyable!
Reducing Plaque Buildup
Dental sticks are specifically designed to reduce plaque buildup on your dog's teeth. The chewing action as your dog enjoys their stick helps to mechanically scrape plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) off their teeth.
Many dental sticks also contain enzymes or other active ingredients that further break down plaque, making it easier to remove. By reducing plaque, dental sticks help maintain cleaner and healthier teeth.
Preventing Dental Disease
Plaque buildup, if left untreated, can harden into tartar and lead to more serious dental issues such as gingivitis and periodontal disease. Regular use of dental sticks can help prevent these conditions by keeping plaque and tartar off your dog’s teeth.
These dental diseases can lead to pain, tooth loss, and even systemic health issues if the bacteria enter your dog’s bloodstream. Treating periodontal disease and other oral issues can also get very expensive, making dental chews a great preventative measure.
Convenience for Pet Parents
If you’ve tried to brush your dog’s teeth before, you probably wouldn’t describe it as “convenient”. Most dogs don’t like having their teeth brushed, and will put up a fight the whole time.
On the other hand, dental chews couldn’t be easier. All you need to do is throw a chew in your dog’s direction - they’ll gnaw on it at their leisure, and you won’t have to do anything special to ensure your dog has daily, consistent, ongoing oral care.
Dogs Love Them!
Arguably the biggest benefit of dental sticks is that dogs love them! Dental sticks are designed to be tasty and satisfying - your dog will think of them as a treat, and you won’t have to struggle to get your pup to start chewing.
In terms of dental sticks vs floss, there’s no contest in which is preferred - flossing is uncomfortable for your dog, while a dental stick is a tasty snack. Because dogs are so compliant, dental sticks are the easiest way to get your dog on board with their own oral care.
Are Dental Chews Bad for Dogs? Potential Dog Dental Sticks Side Effects
So, we’ve talked about the benefits of dental chews, but what are the dog dental sticks side effects you need to know about? Are dental chews bad for dogs, or safe? Here’s what every responsible dog owner needs to know.
Choking Hazards
Pet owners often worry that dental sticks can pose a choking hazard for their pups. Dogs who attempt to swallow sticks whole, or chew off large pieces, can choke or experience blockages in their airways.
It’s important to supervise your dog when they’re chewing, especially if you’re just introducing sticks for the first time, or if your pup has any dental issues like missing teeth. Also, make sure you’re using a dental stick that’s sized appropriately for your pup and their chewing habits.
Puppies, especially, may be at risk of choking on pieces of dental sticks. When can you give puppies dental sticks? It’s generally recommended to wait until puppies are 6 months or older, so that they can chew the sticks properly and not swallow large chunks.
Tooth Complications
Some dental sticks can be quite hard or abrasive, which may lead to tooth fractures or damage, especially in dogs with weaker teeth or existing dental issues. Prolonged or aggressive chewing on hard dental sticks can wear down enamel or cause trauma to the teeth and gums.
Opting for softer dental sticks or those specifically designed to be gentle on teeth can help mitigate this risk. If your pup is older and has weak teeth, it’s a good idea to talk to your vet before you start using dental chews.
Digestive Issues
Unfortunately, some dental sticks out there are made using artificial ingredients and cheap fillers, which can cause serious digestive issues. Dogs may experience gastrointestinal irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, or even blockages if large pieces of undigested material are swallowed.
Make sure you scan the ingredients list for anything that could be a red flag for your pup, and avoid dental chews that rely on artificial flavours, fillers, or preservatives. Stick to natural chews, find a brand that’s backed by vets, and introduce your dog to dental chews slowly to monitor for any digestive issues.
Allergic Reactions
Dogs can have allergies or sensitivities to ingredients commonly found in dental sticks, such as certain proteins or additives. Allergic reactions may manifest as itching, skin rashes, digestive upset, or more severe symptoms like swelling and difficulty breathing.
It's essential to monitor your dog for any signs of allergic reactions when introducing new dental chews and consult with your vet if you suspect an allergy. Again, premium dental chews that are made from natural ingredients are less likely to cause an allergy than cheaper, more artificial sticks.
Can These Side Effects Be Avoided?
The good news is that 99% of the time, these dog dental sticks side effects can be avoided. Here’s how:
- Invest in premium dog dental chews that are backed by vets
- Make sure the chew’s size and texture suit your pup’s chewing habits
- Introduce dental chews slowly into your dog’s routine
- Supervise your dog as they chew to make sure they don’t swallow large chunks
- Keep an eye on your dog for side effects or signs of an allergy
- Follow any specific instructions that come with your dog’s dental chews
And how many dental sticks can a dog have a day? It’s best to stick to one per day, as too many chews may give your dog an upset stomach. Don’t forget that dental sticks have calories, which need to be factored into your dog’s overall dietary intake.
The main thing to remember is that it’s important to invest in high-quality dental chews that don’t contain potentially dangerous ingredients. By starting with the best quality dental sticks, you’ll protect your dog’s oral health without worrying about harmful side effects.
Tips on Safely Using Dog Dental Chews to Protect Your Pet’s Oral Health
So, are dental chews bad for dogs? No - as long as you’re taking the right steps, dental chews are a perfectly safe addition to your pup’s routine, and bring big benefits for their dental care. Here are our tips for using dental chews safely and effectively.
Choosing Safe, Vet-Approved Dental Chews
At Mighty Munch, we do everything we can to bring you the safest, most effective products for your dog, and our dental chews are no exception. Made from premium ingredients and infused with a potent dog probiotic to fight bad bacteria and promote better breath.
With no fillers or harmful ingredients, our dental chews are safe for all breeds and ages, and exceed Australia’s pet safety standards. Plus, they’re available in two different sizes, so you can choose a stick that’s right for your dog’s size and chewing habits.
Our dental chews start working instantly to strip plaque and tartar from your dog’s teeth. With each chew, your pup’s teeth get cleaner, their breath gets fresher, and their jaw gets stronger. Plus, they keep your dog occupied and shift the focus of their chewing away from your furniture!
While you’re checking out our dental chews, don’t forget that we also have top-rated dog supplements in Australia, including our soothing, protective joint supplement for dogs. If you’re wondering how to help a dog with arthritis at home, start with these!
You’ll also find the best probiotics for dogs in Australia at Mighty Munch, as well as collagen for dogs to improve your pup’s skin and coat condition (learn more about the collagen sticks for dogs benefits in our guide).
We don’t just offer supplements, either. Explore our top rated orthopedic dog beds Australia and keep your home and furniture smelling fresh with the best pet odour eliminator Australia, made with the natural cleaning power of enzymes!
Supervised Chewing
Supervising your dog while they enjoy dental chews is essential for their safety, especially if they’re just getting started with chews. Monitor your pet to ensure they are chewing the stick appropriately and not attempting to swallow large pieces whole.
Supervision allows you to intervene if your dog shows signs of choking or difficulty, and it also lets you check whether the chew is the right size. If your dog is chewing through it too quickly, you might like to opt for a harder, bigger stick. Or, if they’re having trouble chewing, switch to a smaller size.
Gradual Introduction
Introduce new dental chews gradually to ensure your dog tolerates them well. Start with short chewing sessions and observe your pet for any adverse reactions, such as digestive upset or allergic symptoms.
Gradual introduction allows your dog's digestive system to adjust and helps you identify any potential issues early on. If your dog shows any signs of discomfort or adverse reactions, discontinue use and talk to your vet.
Regular Veterinary Check-Ups
Regular vet check-ups are vital for maintaining your dog's overall health, including their oral hygiene. Your vet can provide professional cleanings, assess the effectiveness of your dog's dental care routine, and recommend suitable dental chews.
During these check-ups, your vet can identify and address any dental issues before they become severe, ensuring your pet's oral health is consistently monitored and maintained. This is safer for your dog and can also save you from expensive dental work in the future.
Closing Thoughts on Dog Dental Sticks Side Effects
So, are dental chews bad for dogs? Not as long as you’re investing in quality chews and using them properly. Make sure you’re supervising your pup while they chew, keeping an eye out for side effects, and introducing the chews slowly to your dog’s routine.
Available in two sizes, Mighty Munch dental chews exceed Australia’s pet safety standards and contain transparent ingredients that reduce the risk of dog dental sticks side effects. Plus, our vet-backed formula and probiotic infusion make our chews the most effective out there!
Say yes to fresh breath and healthy teeth! Protect your dog’s oral hygiene for years to come with Mighty Munch’s top-rated dental chews.
