Best Dog Dental Chews: VOHC-Approved Picks That Actually Reduce Plaque

Walk down the pet aisle at any store and you will find dozens of products labeled "dental chew." Most of them have zero clinical evidence behind them. Some are little more than flavored rawhide wrapped in marketing language.

The difference between a dental chew that actually works and one that just tastes good comes down to three letters: VOHC. In this guide, we break down exactly which dog dental chews have earned the Veterinary Oral Health Council Seal of Acceptance, how they work, and which ones are worth your money.

One important note before we start: Dental chews are a supplement to brushing, not a replacement. If you want the full picture on keeping your dog's teeth healthy — including how to brush, professional cleanings, and signs of dental disease — read our complete dog dental care guide.

What Is VOHC Approval and Why Does It Matter?

The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) is an independent body that evaluates dental products for dogs and cats. To earn the VOHC Seal of Acceptance, a product must pass controlled clinical trials demonstrating it reduces plaque, tartar (calculus), or both by a meaningful amount.

Here is what makes VOHC acceptance significant:

• Independent evaluation. The VOHC reviews trial data submitted by the manufacturer, but the trials must follow strict protocols.
• Two claim categories. A product can earn acceptance for plaque control, tartar (calculus) control, or both. A product accepted for both has demonstrated broader effectiveness.
• Not a government agency. The VOHC does not regulate products. It is a voluntary program — meaning many products on the market have never been tested to VOHC standards. That does not necessarily mean they are bad, but it means you have no independent verification that they work.

When you see the VOHC seal on a dental chew, you know it has clinical evidence behind it. When you do not see it, you are relying on the manufacturer's claims alone.

How Dental Chews Work

Dental chews reduce plaque and tartar through two primary mechanisms:

Mechanical abrasion

The most important mechanism. When a dog chews on a textured treat, the ridges, nubs, and contoured surfaces physically scrape plaque off the tooth enamel. This is similar in principle to brushing — the chewing motion simulates a scrubbing action that dislodges soft deposits before they harden into tartar.

The shape and texture of the chew matter. Products designed with complex surfaces (like the Z-shape of VeggieDent or the bristle-like edges of Whimzees Brushzees) create more contact points with the teeth. Research published in the Journal of Veterinary Dentistry has shown that chews with more abrasive designs remove more plaque than smooth chews.

Chew time also matters. The longer a dog spends chewing, the more mechanical cleaning occurs. This is why some dental chews are designed to be tougher — not just for durability, but for extended tooth contact.

Chemical action

Some dental chews include active ingredients that interfere with plaque formation. Common ones include:

• Sodium hexametaphosphate (sodium polyphosphate). Binds calcium in saliva, reducing the mineralization of plaque into tartar. Used in Dentastix and some veterinary dental diets.
• Delmopinol hydrochloride. Originally developed for human mouthwash, this compound creates a barrier on the tooth surface that reduces bacterial attachment. It is the active ingredient in OraVet dental chews.
• Zinc sulfate. Has antibacterial properties that can reduce oral bacteria levels.

Additionally, the act of chewing itself stimulates saliva production. Saliva contains enzymes and antibodies that help wash away food particles and inhibit bacterial growth.

What the research says

Veterinary studies have documented measurable benefits from daily dental chew use:

• Plaque reduction ranging from 12% to 40%, depending on the product and study design (PMC sources: PMC7511057, PMC8966107).
• Tartar reduction ranging from 20% to 70% in various controlled trials.
• Reduction in gingivitis and halitosis with consistent daily use.

However, these numbers require daily use. An occasional dental chew provides minimal long-term benefit.

VOHC-Accepted Dental Chews: Comparison Table

The following products have earned the VOHC Seal of Acceptance as of the November 2025 VOHC list. This table includes only chew-type products (not dental diets, water additives, or toothpastes).

Note: Not all Dentastix variants carry VOHC acceptance. The Dentastix Daily, Dentastix Fresh, and Dentastix Advanced lines have earned the seal, while some older or regional formulations may not. Always check the packaging for the VOHC seal.

Our Picks by Category

Best Overall: Greenies Original Dental Chews

Greenies are the most recognizable dental chew on the market, and they have the credentials to back it up. They carry VOHC acceptance for both plaque and tartar control and are available in four sizes to match dogs from 5 to 100 pounds.

What to know:

• VOHC accepted for plaque and tartar control.
• Calorie content: approximately 25 calories (Teenie) to 139 calories (Large) per chew.
• Made with soluble ingredients designed for digestibility. In 2006, Greenies reformulated their recipe after reports of esophageal and intestinal blockages. Since the reformulation, the company states there have been no reports of obstructions.
• One chew per day is the recommended usage.
• Contains wheat, soy, and gelatin — not suitable for dogs with those specific sensitivities.

Why we picked it: Broad VOHC acceptance, wide size range, easy availability at pet stores and veterinary clinics, and a long track record with the reformulated recipe.

Best Natural/Plant-Based: Whimzees Brushzees

Whimzees Brushzees are a strong choice for owners who want a vegetarian, grain-free option. The toothbrush-shaped design with raised bristle-like nubs is engineered for maximum mechanical cleaning.

What to know:

• VOHC accepted for plaque and tartar control.
• Main ingredients: potato starch, glycerin, powdered cellulose, lecithin, dried yeast, malt extract, sweet lupin meal, and paprika extract.
• Grain-free and vegetarian. No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
• Designed with a firm texture that promotes longer chew time compared to softer treats.
• Available in sizes from XS to XL.

Important: Only the Brushzees and Toothbrush shapes from Whimzees carry VOHC acceptance. Other Whimzees shapes (like the Stix or Hedgehog) are not VOHC accepted, even though they contain similar ingredients. The shape and texture are what determine plaque removal effectiveness.

Why we picked it: Limited, recognizable ingredient list. The grain-free, plant-based formula makes it suitable for dogs with common protein sensitivities. Strong VOHC credentials.

Best Veterinary-Grade: OraVet Dental Hygiene Chews

OraVet stands apart from other dental chews because it uses a pharmaceutical approach. Each chew contains delmopinol hydrochloride, a compound used in human oral care that creates a protective barrier on the tooth surface, preventing bacteria from adhering.

What to know:

• VOHC accepted for plaque and tartar control.
• Contains delmopinol HCl — provides both mechanical and chemical plaque prevention.
• Available in four sizes (XS to L).
• Contains pork protein, wheat, and soy.
• Typically sold through veterinary clinics and online pet pharmacies.
• Generally priced higher than grocery-store dental chews.

Why we picked it: The dual-action approach (mechanical cleaning plus a chemical plaque barrier) makes OraVet one of the most effective dental chews available. It is a particularly good option for dogs prone to heavy plaque buildup.

Best for Dogs on a Budget: Pedigree Dentastix

Dentastix are the most affordable dental chews with VOHC acceptance. They use sodium tripolyphosphate to help prevent tartar formation and have an X-shaped cross-section designed to clean along the tooth surface.

What to know:

• Select Dentastix variants (Daily, Fresh, Advanced) carry VOHC acceptance for plaque and tartar control. Check the package for the VOHC seal.
• Contains wheat starch, glycerin, rice flour, and sodium tripolyphosphate among other ingredients.
• Available in small, medium, and large sizes.
• Widely available at grocery stores, making them easy to find.
• Lower cost per chew than most competitors.

Why we picked it: For owners who want a clinically tested dental chew without the premium price, VOHC-accepted Dentastix variants are a practical daily option.

Best Vegetarian (Vet Brand): Virbac C.E.T. VeggieDent FR3SH

VeggieDent comes from Virbac, a company that specializes in veterinary oral care products. The Z-shaped chew is designed for maximum tooth contact, and the FR3SH technology targets bad breath in addition to plaque and tartar.

What to know:

• VOHC accepted for plaque and tartar control.
• Vegetarian formula — no animal-based ingredients.
• Contains a prebiotic to support digestive health.
• A published study in BMC Veterinary Research (2022) found VeggieDent FR3SH performed as well as or better than reference chews in reducing plaque, calculus, and gingival bleeding over 30 days.
• Available in four sizes.

Why we picked it: Backed by a veterinary oral care company with published clinical research. A good choice for owners who want a plant-based chew with strong science behind it.

Greenies vs. Whimzees vs. Dentastix: Head-to-Head

These three are the most commonly compared dental chews. Here is how they stack up:

The takeaway: All three have VOHC backing, so all three work. The choice comes down to your dog's dietary needs (grain-free? vegetarian?), chewing style (aggressive chewers benefit from Whimzees' firmer texture), and budget (Dentastix wins on price).

What to Avoid in Dental Chews

Not all products marketed for dental health are safe or effective. Watch out for:

• No VOHC seal and no clinical data. Marketing phrases like "helps clean teeth" or "supports oral health" mean nothing without testing. Look for the VOHC seal or ask the manufacturer for clinical trial data.
• Rawhide. Traditional rawhide chews can splinter, cause choking, or lead to intestinal blockages. They are not VOHC accepted.
• Extremely hard chews. Antlers, bones, and hard nylon chews can fracture teeth. The American Veterinary Dental College advises against any chew that does not flex or give slightly when pressed.
• High-calorie treats without portion guidance. Dental chews add calories to your dog's daily intake. If a product does not list calorie content, you cannot manage your dog's weight properly. The general recommendation: treats (including dental chews) should make up no more than 10% of daily caloric intake.
• Artificial additives and unrecognizable ingredients. While not inherently dangerous, chews with long lists of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives are generally lower quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dental chews a replacement for brushing my dog's teeth?

No. Both the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) position daily tooth brushing as the gold standard for at-home dental care. Dental chews are recommended as a supplement to brushing, or as an alternative for dogs that will not tolerate having their teeth brushed. According to the AAHA 2019 Dental Care Guidelines, brushing removes plaque before it mineralizes into tartar, which no chew can fully replicate. For a step-by-step brushing guide, see our complete dental care guide.

How often should I give my dog a dental chew?

Daily. Clinical trials behind VOHC acceptance are based on daily use. Giving a dental chew once or twice a week will not produce the plaque and tartar reduction shown in studies. One chew per day (or two per day for Purina Dental Chewz, per the manufacturer's instructions) is the standard recommendation.

Are Greenies safe after the 2006 controversy?

Greenies were reformulated in 2006 after reports of esophageal and intestinal obstructions. The reformulation made the chews more soluble and easier to digest. Since the reformulation, Greenies states there have been no reports of blockages. The product has never been formally recalled. However, as with any chew, you should choose the correct size for your dog and supervise chewing, especially for dogs that tend to gulp treats.

Can puppies have dental chews?

Greenies offers a Puppy formula (VOHC accepted) designed for dogs over six months old with softer texture for developing teeth and gums. In general, dental chews are intended for adult dogs with permanent teeth. Consult your veterinarian before giving dental chews to puppies under six months.

My dog has food allergies. Which dental chew should I pick?

Whimzees Brushzees are grain-free and vegetarian, making them suitable for dogs with common protein or grain sensitivities. Virbac VeggieDent FR3SH is also plant-based with no animal ingredients. Avoid Greenies (contains wheat, soy, gelatin), OraVet (contains pork, wheat, soy), and standard Dentastix (contains wheat starch) if your dog has sensitivities to those ingredients.

Do dental chews help with bad breath?

Yes, to a degree. Bad breath (halitosis) in dogs is primarily caused by bacterial buildup and plaque. By reducing plaque, dental chews also reduce the bacteria responsible for odor. Products like Virbac VeggieDent FR3SH are specifically designed to target halitosis with their FR3SH technology. However, persistent bad breath can be a sign of periodontal disease or other health issues and should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

The Bottom Line

The best dog dental chew is one with VOHC acceptance that your dog actually enjoys eating every day. Consistency matters far more than brand loyalty. Pick a product that fits your dog's size, dietary needs, and chewing style, and use it daily alongside regular veterinary dental checkups.

For the full picture on canine dental health — including brushing techniques, signs of dental disease, and what happens during a professional cleaning — visit our complete dog dental care guide.

Sources

1. Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) — Accepted Products for Dogs (updated November 2025): https://vohc.org/accepted-products/
2. VOHC Accepted Products Table for Dogs (PDF, November 2025): https://vohc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/VOHCAcceptedProductsTableDogs-11-14-25.pdf
3. AAHA 2019 Dental Care Guidelines for Dogs and Cats — Recommending Home Oral Hygiene and Products: https://www.aaha.org/resources/2019-aaha-dental-care-guidelines-for-dogs-and-cats/recommending-products/
4. AVMA — Pet Dental Care: https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/pet-dental-care
5. Hennet P, Servet E, Venet C. "Comparison of a Vegetable-Based Dental Chew to 2 Other Chews for Oral Health Prevention." BMC Veterinary Research (2022): https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8966107/
6. Quest BW. "Effects of novel dental chews on oral health outcomes and halitosis in adult dogs." Journal of Veterinary Dentistry (2020): https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7511057/
7. OraVet Dental Hygiene Chews — Boehringer Ingelheim: https://oravet.com/
8. Virbac C.E.T. VeggieDent FR3SH: https://us.virbac.com/cet-veggiedent-fr3sh-dental-chew-for-dogs
9. Greenies Official Product Page: https://www.greenies.com/
10. dvm360 — "FDA investigates adverse events tied to Greenies; maker changes label": https://www.dvm360.com/view/fda-investigates-adverse-events-tied-greenies-maker-changes-label