Intro
Brushing your dog’s teeth daily sounds great in theory… but let’s be honest, most of us just don’t do it. The good news? Natural chews and treats can do more than just keep your pup busy — they can play a big role in supporting clean teeth and fresh breath. Here’s how.
Why Dental Health Matters for Dogs
Dental health isn’t just about fresh breath. Left unchecked, plaque and tartar build-up can lead to:
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Painful gums and tooth loss
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Bad breath
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Infections that may affect the heart, liver, or kidneys
In fact, around 80% of dogs show signs of dental disease by age 3. Prevention really is easier (and kinder) than treatment.
The Problem with Plaque and Tartar
Here’s a quick breakdown:
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Plaque: a soft, sticky film that starts to build on teeth after eating.
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Tartar: hardened plaque that sticks like cement if it’s not removed.
Once tartar sets in, brushing or chewing alone often won’t fix it — and that’s when vets may need to step in with a dental clean.
How Tough Treats Support Oral Hygiene
So where do chews come in? Natural treats can help scrape away plaque before it turns into tartar. Think of it as your dog’s version of flossing.
Chewing helps by:
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Providing a natural abrasive action on the teeth
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Stimulating saliva, which helps wash away bacteria
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Keeping jaws and gums strong
Quick answer:
Yes — tough, natural treats can support oral hygiene by reducing plaque build-up, freshening breath, and promoting healthy gums.
Best Bonza Treats for Clean Teeth
Not all chews are created equal. For dental health, you want treats that are:
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Long-lasting (so your dog has to work at it)
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Textured (to scrape teeth)
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Natural (no artificial fillers or sugars)
Some Bonza favourites for clean teeth include:
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Shark cartilage – rich in chondroitin and great for moderate chewers.
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Beef ears (hairy) – tough but not too hard, with extra fibre benefits.
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Beef achilles tendons – lean, long-lasting chews that help scrape teeth.
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Raw bones – the ultimate natural toothbrush (always supervise).
Signs Your Dog Might Need More Dental Support
Even with chews, some dogs will still need extra help. Watch for these warning signs:
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Persistent bad breath
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Yellow or brown build-up on teeth
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Drooling or pawing at the mouth
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Bleeding gums
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Reluctance to eat hard food
If you spot these, it’s worth booking a vet check — treats are great for prevention, but they’re not a cure once disease sets in.
Takeaway
You don’t have to wrestle with a toothbrush every night to keep your dog’s teeth healthy. Natural chews and treats are a realistic, effective way to help reduce plaque, freshen breath, and support strong gums — all while giving your pup something they love.
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