What Are Dental Chews For Dogs? How They Work And When To Use Them

Key Takeaways: 

• Functionality: Dental chews support oral hygiene by mechanically reducing plaque and tartar during chewing.
• Sustainability: Jiminy’s chews are made with eco-friendly cricket protein, making them better for your dog and the environment.
• Variety: With multiple sizes available, Jiminy’s dental chews offer safe, tailored options for dogs of all breeds and life stages.

Dental health is one of the most overlooked areas of dog care, yet it’s essential to a dog’s overall wellness. Left unchecked, plaque and tartar can lead to painful dental diseases, bad breath, and even organ issues. That’s where dental chews come in. But not all dental chews are created equal. The right chew not only scrubs away plaque but also supports digestive health, freshens breath naturally, and fits seamlessly into your dog’s daily routine – all while being safe, healthy, and enjoyable to eat.

At Jiminy’s, we’re not just reimagining pet nutrition – we’re leading the charge. As pioneers of insect-based dog treats and food, we’ve helped pet parents reduce their dog’s carbon pawprint without sacrificing taste, nutrition, or quality. Our products aren’t just good for your dog – they’re designed to be good for the planet, too.

In this piece, we’ll discuss dental chews for dogs, how they work, and when to use them – plus what makes Jiminy’s chews the smart, sustainable choice.

What Are Dental Chews For Dogs?

Dental chews for dogs are specially designed edible treats that help clean your dog’s teeth and freshen their breath. They’re shaped and textured to encourage chewing, which allows for the mechanical scrubbing away of plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth. Unlike regular treats, dental chews are formulated with both oral hygiene and enjoyment in mind.

They come in various sizes, textures, and flavors to suit different breeds, chewing habits, and dietary needs. The best part? Dogs often consider them a reward or a snack – not a dental routine.

In addition to mechanical cleaning, some dog dental chews include natural or functional ingredients that support oral health, such as parsley, seaweed, or enzymes. And when you choose products like Jiminy’s dog dental chews, you support a more sustainable future with insect-based protein and eco-friendly packaging.

How Do Dog Dental Chews Work?

Dog dental chews combine texture, chewing action, and sometimes active ingredients to reduce plaque and tartar buildup. When a dog chews on a properly designed dental chew, the abrasive texture helps scrape away soft plaque before it hardens into tartar – much like how brushing your teeth removes buildup.

Here’s how they support oral health:

• Mechanical Abrasion: The texture of dental chews gently scrubs the teeth and gums as your dog chews, targeting hard-to-reach areas in the mouth.
• Saliva Production: Chewing stimulates saliva, which naturally helps cleanse the mouth and neutralize harmful bacteria.
• Functional Ingredients: Some chews, like Jiminy’s, include parsley, and cinnamon – ingredients that help freshen breath and reduce oral inflammation. More notably, the grub protein used in Jiminy’s chews supports a healthy oral microbiome by reducing bad bacteria and promoting beneficial strains, offering scientifically proven breath and dental health benefits.

They’re a tasty way to supplement your dog’s dental routine. While they’re not a substitute for professional cleanings or daily brushing, studies suggest dog dental chews do work as a valuable part of a complete oral care regimen.

Explore the best dog chews for teeth to see how you can support your dog’s dental health with minimal effort.

Are Dental Chews Good For Dogs?

Yes – when chosen thoughtfully, dental chews are good for dogs and can offer both health benefits and enjoyment. They not only support better oral hygiene but also satisfy your dog’s natural urge to chew, which can reduce anxiety and prevent destructive chewing behavior.

Here are a few benefits of giving your dog dental chews:

• Improved Oral Health: Regular use can help reduce plaque, tartar buildup, and bad breath. Jiminy’s insect-based formula goes further by reducing the oral bacteria that cause bad breath and dental disease while boosting beneficial strains for a healthier microbiome.
• Mental Stimulation: Chewing is mentally engaging for dogs, offering a satisfying activity that keeps them occupied.
• Digestive Support: Some dental chews include added fiber or natural ingredients that support healthy digestion.
• Reduced Vet Visits: By keeping your dog’s mouth cleaner, you may reduce the frequency of professional dental cleanings.

It’s critical to select high-quality, vet-recommended dog dental chews like Jiminy’s dental chews, which are formulated with safe, nutritious ingredients and designed for optimal chewing action.

Of course, it’s always best to supervise your dog during chew time and choose a chew that matches their size and chewing strength to avoid choking or dental injury.

When Should You Give Your Dog Dental Chews?

Dental chews can be given regularly as part of your dog’s dental care routine – but timing and frequency matter. Most dogs benefit from receiving a dental chew once per day, though this can vary depending on the chew’s formulation and your dog’s individual needs.

Ideal times to give your dog a dental chew:

• After meals: Cleaning off leftover food particles helps reduce plaque buildup.
• During quiet time or crate time: Chewing helps dogs relax and keeps them mentally stimulated.
• As a reward for good behavior: Dental chews double as a treat and health booster, making them a win-win.

Consistency is key. Incorporating dog dental chews into your pet’s daily schedule can significantly improve oral hygiene. Pair them with regular brushing and vet checkups for a comprehensive dental care routine.

Check out Jiminy’s best dental chews for dogs for a healthy, planet-friendly option that’s easy to add into any daily routine.

What Are The Best Dental Chews For Dogs?

When choosing the best dental chews for dogs, it’s essential to look beyond flavor and focus on safety, effectiveness, and nutritional value. Not all chews are created equal – and some can even do more harm than good if they’re too hard, poorly digested, or filled with artificial additives.

Here’s what makes a dental chew truly stand out:

• Size-Appropriate Design: Chews should match your dog’s breed, age, and chewing strength to prevent choking or broken teeth.
• Natural Ingredients: Look for products free of artificial colors, preservatives, and fillers.
• Texture That Cleans: A good chew should be firm enough to scrub teeth but not so hard it risks damaging them.
• Veterinarian Approval: Vet-recommended dog dental chews offer extra assurance for your dog’s health and safety.

Jiminy’s offers a line of best dog chews for teeth that checks all these boxes – made with sustainable cricket protein, prebiotics for digestion, and a dental design proven to reduce plaque and freshen breath. They're not just good for your dog – they’re good for the planet, too.

What Makes Jiminy’s Dental Chews Different?

At Jiminy’s, we believe that doing good for your dog should also mean doing good for the planet. Our dog dental chews are crafted with sustainability, health, and happiness.

Here’s what sets our chews apart:

Sustainable Protein Source

Our chews are made with cricket protein – a nutrient-dense, complete protein that’s easy on your dog’s digestive system and packed with essential amino acids. Compared to traditional animal proteins, crickets use 93% less land, 99% less water, and produce a fraction of the greenhouse gases. It’s a smart, eco-friendly alternative that supports your pet’s health and the environment.

Functional Ingredients

We go beyond basic dental benefits by adding functional ingredients like parsley for breath, pumpkin for digestion, and cinnamon for its natural anti-inflammatory properties and canine-approved flavor. Cinnamon freshens breath while soothing gums—making it a smart, effective alternative to mint. These plant-based additions are gentle on your dog’s gut and contribute to overall wellness. Each chew delivers more than just a clean mouth – it supports holistic health from the inside out.

Vet-Recommended Formulation

Our vet-recommended dog dental chews are backed by science and approved by veterinary professionals for safe, effective daily use. The shape, texture, and ingredients are all designed with oral hygiene in mind, helping reduce plaque and tartar with every bite. Combined with cinnamon and BSFL protein’s proven ability to modulate oral bacteria, Jiminy’s chews provide both mechanical and microbial support for lasting dental health.

Tailored Sizes

One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to dental care. That’s why Jiminy’s offers chews in small, medium, and large sizes to accommodate different breeds, jaw strengths, and chewing preferences. Whether you’ve got a toy poodle or a Labrador, a perfectly sized chew is just right for them.

Why Jiminy’s Cinnamon Dental Chews Are The Best Choice For Your Dog

When combining effective dental care, sustainable ingredients, and tail-wagging flavor, Jiminy’s Cinnamon Dental Chews stand out as a top-tier choice for dogs of all sizes. These chews are thoughtfully designed to clean teeth, freshen breath, and support digestive health – all while using cricket protein, a hypoallergenic and planet-friendly alternative to meat.

Here’s a closer look at our size-specific offerings:

Extra Small Cinnamon Dental Chews (38 ct)

Perfect for petite pups, this size is ideal for toy breeds and small dogs who need a gentler chew. The smaller shape is easy to manage for little jaws, without compromising cleaning power or nutritional value.

Small Cinnamon Dental Chews (20 ct)

Designed for small breed dogs, these chews help reduce plaque and tartar buildup while delivering a satisfying texture and a cinnamon-fresh finish. They offer daily support for dental health in a tasty, bite-sized treat.

Medium Cinnamon Dental Chews (12 ct)

For medium-sized dogs, this option delivers a balanced chew – firm enough to clean effectively but gentle enough for daily enjoyment. Thanks to our cricket-based formula, these chews also support digestion and provide essential nutrients.

Large Cinnamon Dental Chews (7 ct)

Crafted for big dogs with strong jaws, these chews offer a longer-lasting experience while promoting oral hygiene and fresh breath. The size and durability are tailored to meet the needs of larger breeds without sacrificing digestibility.

Final Thoughts 

Keeping your dog’s mouth clean doesn’t have to be a chore – it can be a treat. With the right dental chews, you can turn daily oral care into a moment your pup looks forward to. Jiminy’s dental chews for dogs combine powerful mechanical and biochemical cleaning action with sustainable, nutritious ingredients like BSFL protein and cinnamon—targeting harmful bacteria, reducing inflammation, and leaving your dog’s breath noticeably fresher.

By choosing the best dental chews for dogs – like those crafted by Jiminy’s – you’re not only helping to reduce plaque and tartar but also giving your dog a functional snack made from earth-friendly cricket protein. It’s dental care done right: safe, tasty, and responsible.

From extra small to large breeds, Jiminy’s offers a chew for every dog and every lifestyle. Make it a part of your daily routine – your dog (and their breath) will thank you.

Read also:

• Can Dogs Eat Bugs?
• Your Guide on Dog Nutrition for Excellent Gut Health
• 5 Ways to Improve Your Pet's Diet
• Good Grub Wins 2024 Dog Food of the Year

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Chews For Dogs

 

Can dental chews help reduce bad breath in dogs with digestive issues?

Yes, certain dental chews – especially those with ingredients like parsley or prebiotics – can help freshen breath by supporting gut health and oral hygiene.

Are there grain-free dental chews for dogs with allergies?

Many brands, including Jiminy’s, offer grain-free dental chews made with hypoallergenic proteins like crickets and BSFL, which are ideal for sensitized dogs.

How do I know if my dog is chewing the dental treat correctly?

A good sign is if your dog chews it slowly and uses its molars. If it swallows it whole or too quickly, try a larger size or a chew with more resistance.

Do senior dogs benefit from dental chews, or are they too hard for older teeth?

Senior dogs can benefit, especially when given softer or age-appropriate chews. Look for dental chews with gentle textures that still provide mechanical cleaning.

Is it okay to give my dog more than one dental chew a day?

Generally, one chew per day is recommended. Giving more can lead to excessive calorie intake or digestive upset, depending on your dog’s diet and size.

Are dental chews a substitute for brushing a dog’s teeth?

No – they are a helpful supplement but not a complete replacement. Brushing remains the most effective way to remove plaque and maintain long-term dental health.

What are signs that a dental chew may not be suitable for my dog?

Watch for choking, vomiting, loose stool, or signs of tooth damage. If any of these occur, discontinue use and consult your veterinarian for alternatives.

Do dental chews need to be refrigerated or stored in a special way?

Most dental chews are shelf-stable and should be tightly sealed in a cool, dry place. Always check the packaging for storage instructions.

Can dogs with missing teeth or dental surgery use dental chews?

Yes, but they’ll need softer or smaller chews that are easier to manage. Always consult your vet to choose a safe product for their specific condition.