Plaque, tartar, bad breath, and even painful infections can sneak up fast without proper care.
But when it comes to keeping your dog’s mouth fresh and healthy, brushing isn’t the only tool in your kit. Mother Nature gave us some alternatives—and they’re sitting right in your kitchen!
These crunchy sticks are like nature’s toothbrush. Their texture helps scrape plaque, and they’re packed with vitamin A, which supports eye and immune health.
Serve: Raw, in sticks or baby carrot form. Or freeze for extra crunch.
Fibrous and stringy, celery works like dental floss for dogs. It’s also hydrating and low in calories.
Serve: Raw, chopped into manageable pieces
Apples are mildly abrasive and help clean teeth while freshening breath. They also contain malic acid, which can help whiten teeth naturally.
Serve: Sliced with seeds and core removed.
Cucumber contains phytochemicals that can help reduce the smelly bacteria in the mouth and the high-water content can promote saliva production which can also reduce the bacteria in the mouth which can lead to bad breath.
Serve: Peeled or unpeeled, sliced into rounds or sticks.
Finally, herbs such as mint and parsley both have antimicrobial properties which can help freshen breath (but some species can be toxic so you need to make sure you are giving your pet a non-toxic variety).
Whilst fruit and vegetables can be helpful additions to your dog’s dental care, they should not replace regular brushing as this remains the best way to clean your dog’s teeth.
Fruit and veg needs to be given in moderation due to potential digestive issues and can also be choking hazards so need to be correctly prepared and keep an eye on the dog whilst consuming.