Top Recommended Products and Selection Criteria for Preventing Tartar and Plaque in Dogs

Oral HealthTop PicksMeongsiljang Veterinary Advisory Board

Dental plaque and tartar in dogs can lead to bad breath as well as heart and kidney diseases. We’ve compiled the top three effective preventive care products and methods.

Preventing Tartar and Plaque in Dogs is Essential

A veterinarian removing tartar from a dog under anesthesia.

Preventing tartar and plaque buildup in dogs is essential not only for reducing bad breath but also for maintaining healthy gums and teeth. Bacteria-laden plaque first accumulates on the teeth, and when it hardens with minerals like calcium from saliva and breath, it turns into yellow, hardened tartar. Tartar commonly forms on the outer surfaces of the upper molars and the inner surfaces of the lower molars. If left untreated, it can lead to periodontal disease, causing swollen gums, bleeding during brushing or probing, and even tooth loss in severe cases. Veterinarians recommend combining regular professional dental cleanings under anesthesia with daily at-home care. Small-breed dogs weighing less than 5 kg are especially prone to dental issues, so they require extra attention.

Criteria for Choosing Products to Prevent Tartar and Plaque in Dogs

When choosing a product to prevent tartar and plaque in dogs, it’s important to consider ingredients, ease of use, safety, and effectiveness. Once tartar has hardened, it cannot be dissolved or removed by medications or treats; established tartar should only be removed by a veterinarian through professional scaling. Therefore, it’s best to evaluate products based on their ability to reduce plaque formation and bacterial growth before tartar hardens. Additionally, avoid using human toothpaste, as it is not designed to be swallowed by dogs. Instead, select products specifically labeled for dogs and cats that have been scientifically validated for veterinary use. Products like pet oral rinses containing chlorhexidine, which clearly state the target animal and usage instructions on the label, are generally safer choices.

An organized display of dog dental care products

BEST 1: Dental Health Chew Treats (Premium)

This treat is designed to be chewed, helping to reduce plaque and tartar buildup on your dog’s teeth through friction during chewing. In well-designed studies, giving dogs chew treats containing specific ingredients for about three months has been shown to reduce plaque and tartar accumulation. However, chewing alone may not fully prevent gum inflammation, so it’s best to use this treat alongside other care practices like brushing. Tartar tends to accumulate most on the outer surfaces of the upper molars and the inner surfaces of the lower molars, so make sure these areas are getting adequate chewing action when you give the treat. Follow the recommended serving size on the package, adjusting for your dog’s weight and age.

A puppy enjoying a chew treat designed to support dental health.

BEST 2: Toothpaste Application Dental Care Stick

This product is a stick-shaped toothpaste applied directly to your dog’s teeth, making it suitable even for dogs who struggle with chewing. However, simply applying it without stimulating and massaging the gums as you would during brushing may limit its effectiveness, so it’s best used alongside gentle brushing whenever possible. Since tartar forms when minerals like calcium carbonate and calcium phosphate harden, it’s more important to look for ingredients that reduce plaque and bacteria rather than those claiming to “strengthen teeth with minerals.” When first introducing the product, start with a small amount to help your dog get used to it gradually and avoid rejection, applying it gently to the teeth once or twice daily. Also, be sure to choose a verified product specifically labeled for dogs and cats.

Applying a dental care stick to a puppy's teeth

BEST 3: Dental Care Water Additive

This product is a liquid dental care additive that you simply mix into your dog’s regular drinking water, making it very easy to use. When selecting oral care liquids or mouthwashes containing ingredients like chlorhexidine, choose verified products clearly labeled for dogs and cats, with specific instructions for the target animal and usage method. However, keep in mind that water additives alone cannot completely prevent gum inflammation, and hardened tartar can only be removed through professional scaling; therefore, it is best to view this as a supplementary part of daily care. You can carry it in a portable bottle for use while traveling, and always follow the dosage and frequency guidelines indicated on the product label. When first introducing it, observe your dog to ensure they do not reject the water due to the change in taste.

A puppy drinking water with a dental care additive.

Comparison Table of BEST 1–3 Products

Item	제품 유형	주요 성분	사용 방법	추천 강아지 유형
BEST 1: 씹는 간식	고형 씹는 간식	글루코사민, 콘드로이틴, 천연 허브	하루 1~2조각 씹기	씹는 습관 있는 강아지
BEST 2: 치약 스틱	도포형 치약 스틱	칼슘-인 복합체, 천연 허브	치아에 도포 후 1~2분 유지	씹는 습관 없는 강아지
BEST 3: 물 추가제	액체 추가제	페룰산, 레몬그라스 추출물	물 1L당 10ml 추가	외출 빈도 높은 강아지

모든 제품은 수의사 추천 제품이며, 강아지 체중과 나이에 맞춰 사용하세요.

Precautions: Items Strictly Prohibited for Use

We do not recommend using human toothpaste or tartar removers on dogs. Human products are not formulated to be swallowed, so always use items specifically labeled for dogs and cats. Additionally, trying to forcefully scrape off hardened tartar at home can damage the gums and cause bleeding. The safest and most effective way to remove hardened tartar is through professional dental scaling performed by a veterinarian under anesthesia.

Practical Tips for Preventing Tartar and Plaque in Dogs

Preventing tartar and plaque in dogs hinges on daily habits. Above all, brushing is the most well-proven method; regular brushing is known to reduce tartar buildup, gum inflammation, and periodontal tissue damage. Developing the habit of gently touching your dog’s teeth and gums once or twice a day allows you to quickly detect early changes, such as swelling or bleeding during brushing. When introducing dental care products, start with small amounts to help your dog become accustomed without resistance, and gradually increase the quantity once they accept it. In addition to home care, be sure to schedule regular oral examinations and professional cleanings with your veterinarian.

A dog owner brushing their dog’s teeth with a finger brush.

Reviewed by a veterinarian

Dr. Tony — Punnawat Phongkittirak

Veterinarian

A veterinarian who majored in veterinary medicine at Khon Kaen University, Thailand, and completed the IVSA program at North Carolina State University in the United States. Drawing on clinical experience at animal hospitals, he works in the pet healthcare field and is dedicated to building a digital care environment that connects pet parents with veterinarians.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should you start preventing tartar buildup in your dog?

It's recommended to start preventing tartar buildup in puppies once they reach six months of age. At this stage, it's important to have a veterinarian perform an oral examination and begin early dental care.

Can I remove tartar at home?

If your dog has severe tartar buildup or bleeding gums, trying to remove it at home can be dangerous. The safest approach is to have a veterinarian perform a professional dental cleaning under anesthesia.

How many times a day should I use the toothpaste stick?

According to the product label, apply a thin layer to your dog’s teeth once or twice daily. For better plaque removal, use it alongside brushing rather than applying it alone. Start with a small amount to help your dog get used to it and avoid resistance.

Which dogs benefit from water additives?

This product is especially convenient for dogs that don’t have a chewing habit or are frequently out and about. It’s very easy to use—just mix it with water. However, it should be viewed as a supplementary care tool, so it’s best used alongside regular tooth brushing.

When can I expect to see results from tartar prevention products?

While results vary by product, studies have shown that consistent use over several weeks to three months can reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Consistent use is more effective than short-term application, and it’s important to combine it with regular brushing and professional dental cleanings.

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References

[1] The Dog Care Handbook, Things I Wish My Vet Had Told Me, 2021

[2] 100 Top Consultations in Small Animal General Practice, 2020

[3] Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Edition, 2022