5 Homemade Dog Dental Treats to Keep Those Teeth Sparkling
Let’s face it—our dogs don’t exactly keep up with a twice-daily brushing routine. But just like us, their teeth need care to stay healthy.
Dental treats are a fun way to help reduce plaque and freshen their breath, and the best part? You can make them at home 😉
Here are five easy-to-make homemade treats that will keep your pup happy and healthy! You can also scroll down to watch the video with an extra recipe 😉
1. Parsley and Mint Breath Bites
Why It’s Great:
Parsley and mint are natural breath fresheners, helping to combat doggy breath without harsh additives. The rough texture of these treats helps scrape away plaque as your dog chews.
Plus, they’re made with wholesome ingredients, so you know exactly what your pup is eating. Bonus: they smell pretty good for dog treats!
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Join The Club Today! 🐾Ingredients:
- 2 cups of oat flour
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup of fresh mint, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup of water
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a bowl, mix oat flour, parsley, and mint.
- Add the egg and water, stirring until it forms a dough.
- Roll out the dough and cut it into small shapes (bone-shaped cutters are fun!).
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let cool before serving.
2. Sweet Potato Chews
Why It’s Great:
Sweet potatoes are a natural and affordable way to keep your dog’s teeth clean. Their chewy texture helps scrape away plaque and tartar buildup as your dog gnaws.
Packed with vitamins like A and C, they’re also a nutritious treat that supports overall health. Plus, they’re super easy to make, so what’s not to love?
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
Instructions:
- Wash and peel the sweet potatoes.
- Slice them into thin strips about 1/4 inch thick.
- Place the strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 2-3 hours, flipping halfway through.
- Cool completely before offering them to your dog.
3. Coconut Oil and Turmeric Biscuits
Why It’s Great:
Coconut oil is known for its antimicrobial properties, making it great for oral health. Turmeric not only helps reduce inflammation in gums but also adds a little boost to your dog’s immune system.
These biscuits are crunchy, which helps clean teeth naturally, and they’re made with simple ingredients you probably already have at home. They’re like tiny golden power snacks for your dog!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup of coconut oil, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric
- 1/2 cup of unsweetened applesauce
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine the flour and turmeric in a bowl.
- Add melted coconut oil and applesauce, mixing until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough and cut into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Allow them to cool before serving.
4. Frozen Yogurt and Blueberry Bites
Why It’s Great:
These frozen treats are perfect for soothing your dog’s gums while helping to reduce tartar buildup. Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, which support your dog’s immune system and overall health.
The smooth texture of yogurt combined with the crunch of frozen blueberries makes this a refreshing and healthy snack. Best of all, they’re a great option for hot days or teething puppies.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of plain, unsweetened yogurt
- 1/4 cup of fresh blueberries
Instructions:
- Blend the yogurt and blueberries until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into silicone molds or ice cube trays.
- Freeze for 3-4 hours, or until solid.
- Pop them out and serve as a refreshing, tooth-friendly snack.
5. Carrot and Peanut Butter Sticks
Why It’s Great:
Carrots are naturally crunchy, making them great for scraping plaque off your dog’s teeth. The peanut butter adds a layer of flavor that most dogs can’t resist, turning a healthy veggie into a favorite treat.
Freezing the sticks makes them even more satisfying to chew, giving your dog’s teeth and gums a little extra workout. This treat is simple, nutritious, and a great alternative to store-bought dental chews.
Ingredients:
- 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
- 1/4 cup of unsalted, xylitol-free peanut butter
Instructions:
- Spread a thin layer of peanut butter onto each carrot stick.
- Freeze for 1-2 hours to make them extra chewy.
- Serve as a fun, crunchy dental treat!
Other Recipes – Video
Tips for Success
- Choose Safe Ingredients: Avoid any toxic foods like xylitol, onions, or artificial sweeteners when making treats.
- Portion Appropriately: Make treats the right size for your dog to chew safely, especially for smaller breeds.
- Store Properly: Keep homemade treats in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer to maintain freshness.
FAQ
Q: How often should I give my dog dental treats?
You can give dental treats a few times a week, but they shouldn’t replace regular brushing or professional cleanings. Think of them as a supplement to your dog’s dental care routine.
Q: Are these treats safe for all dogs?
Yes, as long as your dog doesn’t have allergies to the ingredients. Always use dog-safe foods (like xylitol-free peanut butter) and monitor your dog the first time they try a new treat.
Q: Can I store these treats for later?
Absolutely! Most of these treats can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or in the freezer for a few months. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Q: What if my dog doesn’t like one of the recipes?
Every dog has their preferences. If one recipe doesn’t work, try another! You can also tweak the ingredients slightly to suit your dog’s tastes.
Q: Do these replace brushing my dog’s teeth?
Nope! While dental treats help reduce plaque and tartar, regular brushing is still the gold standard for keeping your dog’s teeth clean and healthy.
Final Thoughts
Making your own dog dental treats is a simple way to show your furry friend some love while keeping their teeth in tip-top shape. Whether you’re whipping up a batch of breath-freshening bites or serving frozen yogurt treats on a hot day, these recipes are fun, easy, and effective.
Just remember, dental treats are a supplement—not a substitute—for brushing and regular vet checkups. With a little effort and creativity, you can keep your dog’s smile healthy and their tail wagging. After all, happy teeth mean a happy pup! 🙂
I’ve spent 10+ years in dog training, digging into what makes dogs (and their humans) tick. At Smart Dog Learning, I share my no-nonsense, fun approach to training so you can enjoy life with a well-behaved, happy pup—no boring lectures, just practical results 😉
