15 Best Dog Treats for Bad Breath (2024) – Top Picks for Fresher Smelling Pups

Dog owners love to pamper their furry friends, and one way to do that is by giving them treats. However, not all dog treats are created equal. Some treats can actually help improve your dog’s oral hygiene by freshening their breath and reducing plaque and tartar buildup. That’s where the best dog treats for bad breath come in.

These treats are specifically designed to target the root cause of bad breath in dogs – poor oral hygiene. They contain ingredients that help fight bacteria, promote healthy gums, and freshen breath. When shopping for dog treats for bad breath, it’s important to pay attention to the ingredients and choose treats that are free from harmful chemicals and additives.

One critical thing to consider when purchasing dog treats for bad breath is the size and texture of the treat. Smaller treats are better for smaller dogs, while larger treats are more suitable for bigger breeds. The texture of the treat is also important as it can help remove plaque and tartar buildup from your dog’s teeth.

At the end of the day, the best dog treats for bad breath are those that are not only effective but also delicious for your furry friend. In this article, we’ll be reviewing some of the top dog treats for bad breath on the market today, so you can choose the perfect one for your pup.

Best Dog Treats for Bad Breath

If you’re a dog owner, you know how important it is to keep your furry friend healthy and happy. One common issue that many dogs face is bad breath. Not only is it unpleasant for you, but it can also be a sign of underlying dental problems. Fortunately, there are plenty of dog treats on the market that can help freshen your pup’s breath while also providing them with a tasty snack. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best dog treats for bad breath that are sure to leave your pup’s mouth smelling fresh and clean.

Pet Naturals Breath Bites Breath Freshener for Dogs (Best Overall)

If you want to help your furry friend have fresher breath and a healthier digestive system, Pet Naturals Breath Bites might be the solution.

Pros

• Breath Bites have unique ingredients that help manage bad breath in the mouth and the source of bad odors in the digestive system.
• They include Spirulina, Champignon Mushroom Extract, and Cinnamon, which help reduce flatulence, control elimination odor, and support a healthy digestive system that stops odors where they start.
• Breath Bites are chicken liver flavored soft chews that can be used daily as part of your pet’s dental health program.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the chews.

Pet Naturals Breath Bites are a new, effective way to deal with dog breath issues. The soft chews are easy to use and contain unique ingredients, such as Champignon Mushroom extract (Champex brand), which is extensively studied for its ability to suppress odor-causing toxins in the intestines. Cinnamon supports a healthy bacterial balance in the mouth, important in dealing with bad breath, and Spirulina has a beneficial deodorizing effect.

Breath Bites are chicken liver flavored soft chews that can be used daily as part of your pet’s dental health program. They help manage bad dog breath from the inside out, with ingredients that manage bad breath in the mouth and the source of bad odors in the digestive system. They offer an easy way to make your pet more kissable.

However, some customers reported that the product did not work as expected, and some dogs may not like the taste of the chews. The product may not work for all dogs. Overall, Pet Naturals Breath Bites are worth trying if you want to freshen up your dog’s breath and improve their digestive health.

Zesty Paws Dental Bones for Small Dogs

If you’re looking for an all-in-one dental bone that supports periodontal health, fresh breath, plaque and tartar control, and more benefits for small 12-25 lb dog breeds, then the Zesty Paws Dental Bones for Small Dogs is an excellent option for you.

Pros

• These dental bones have a cinnamon flavor and a ridged texture for teeth cleaning, fresh breath, healthy gums, tartar and plaque control.
• As your dog chews on these Dental Bones, they’ll get gut and immune system support from premium EpiCor Pets, plus Omega-3 (EPA & DHA) and Inulin in each bone.
• The fatty acids in these bones include both Omega 6 and Omega 3 for dogs to support healthy skin and shiny coats.

Cons

• Some dogs might not like the cinnamon flavor.

These dental bones are easy to chew and have a cinnamon flavor that dogs love. They are also packed with gut and immune system support, Omega-3 fatty acid for hip and joint care, and calcium for bone health. However, the large size might not be suitable for bigger dogs, and some dogs might not like the cinnamon flavor. Additionally, the bones might not be as effective for severe dental issues.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for an all-in-one dental bone that supports periodontal health, fresh breath, plaque and tartar control, and more benefits for small 12-25 lb dog breeds, the Zesty Paws Dental Bones for Small Dogs is a great option to consider.

Bernie’s Charming Chompers

If you’re looking for a dog treat that freshens breath and cleans teeth, Bernie’s Charming Chompers is worth considering.

Pros

• Helps freshen breath and clean teeth
• Supports healthy digestion naturally
• Easy to digest

Cons

• May not last as long as other dental chews
• Can be expensive compared to other dental chews

Bernie’s Charming Chompers is a great option for pet owners who want to improve their dog’s dental health. The chews are designed to freshen breath and clean teeth while also supporting healthy digestion. We appreciate that the chews are easy to digest and made with natural ingredients.

While the chews are effective, they may not last as long as other dental chews on the market. Additionally, some dogs may not enjoy the taste of the turkey-flavored chews. Finally, the cost of Bernie’s Charming Chompers may be higher than other dental chews.

Overall, we recommend Bernie’s Charming Chompers for pet owners who want to improve their dog’s dental health and freshen their breath. However, it’s important to note that the chews may not be the best option for every dog.

ORAVET Dental Chews for Dogs

If you’re looking for a dental chew that can help keep your dog’s teeth clean and their breath fresh, ORAVET Dental Chews for Dogs might be the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• ORAVET chews are made with delmopinol, an ingredient that forms a protective barrier against the bacteria that cause plaque, tartar, and bad breath.
• Each chew is formulated to be easily digestible and has a vanilla aroma with a poultry flavor that dogs love.
• ORAVET Dental Hygiene Chews are clinically shown to reduce plaque and tartar build-up and promote oral health.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the chews.
• ORAVET chews can be expensive compared to other dental chews on the market.

ORAVET Dental Chews for Dogs are a great way to help keep your dog’s teeth clean and their breath fresh. Each chew uses your dog’s own chewing action to loosen and dislodge plaque, helping it break away from teeth down to the gumline. The chews are also the only dental chew that contains delmopinol, an ingredient used in human oral care rinses to improve dental hygiene.

If you’re looking for a dental chew that’s easy to give to your dog and provides a full month of dental protection when used daily, ORAVET Dental Hygiene Chews are a great choice. They’re made for dogs and puppies six months of age or older weighing 3.5 pounds or more, and each 30 Count bag provides a full month of dental protection when used daily. So, subscribe and save today to make it easier to keep your dog’s mouth clean year-round and make sure you never run out of ORAVET Dental Hygiene Chews.

Milk-Bone Fresh Breath Brushing Chews

If you want to help freshen your dog’s breath, Milk-Bone Brushing Chews Daily Dental Dog Treats might be a good option.

Pros

• Helps clean teeth and freshen breath
• Formulated with calcium to help support strong bones and teeth
• No artificial flavors and no fillers

Cons

• Packaging may vary
• May not be suitable for dogs with sensitive teeth or gums

These mint-flavored dog treats are designed to provide scrubbing action that helps clean teeth, reduce tartar buildup, and maintain healthy gums. They are intended for small/medium dogs weighing between 25-49 lbs and over six months of age.

In addition to freshening breath, Milk-Bone Brushing Chews are formulated with calcium to help support strong bones and teeth. They contain no fillers or artificial flavors, making them a relatively healthy option for your furry friend.

However, it’s worth noting that the packaging may vary, which could be a downside for some users. Additionally, these treats may not be suitable for dogs with sensitive teeth or gums. For severe cases of bad breath, they may not be effective on their own and should be used in conjunction with other dental care products.

Overall, if you’re looking for a simple and relatively healthy way to freshen your dog’s breath, Milk-Bone Brushing Chews Daily Dental Dog Treats could be a good option.

Greenies Dog Dental Treats

If you want your dog to have fresh breath and clean teeth, then you should definitely try Greenies Dog Dental Treats.

Pros

• These treats are bursting with breath-freshening mint flavor, with a delightfully chewy texture that fights plaque and tartar.
• The chewy texture helps clean teeth, maintain healthy gums and freshen breath to make mouths happy day after day.
• GREENIES Dental Treats are made with natural ingredients plus vitamins, minerals and nutrients and are easy to digest with highly soluble ingredients.

Cons

• The treats can be too hard for some dogs to chew.

Greenies Dog Dental Treats are veterinarian recommended for at-home oral care. These treats are made from high-quality ingredients combined into soft chews your dog will love. You can find Greenies Dental Treats for every age from puppy to mature, and every dog size from small to large, plus they offer Grain Free, Weight Management, Blueberry Flavor and Fresh Flavor varieties.

In conclusion, Greenies Dog Dental Treats are a great choice for maintaining your dog’s oral health. They are tasty, easy to digest, and recommended by veterinarians. Give your dog the mouth-wowing treat that helps promote oral health with Greenies Dog Dental Treats.

Purina DentaLife Small/Medium Dog Dental Chews

If you’re looking for a tasty treat that also helps keep your furry friend’s teeth clean, the Purina DentaLife Made in USA Facilities Small/Medium Dog Dental Chews are definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Scientifically proven to have a 57% average reduction in tartar buildup, which helps freshen breath.
• Eight distinct ridges and a porous texture help clean hard-to-reach teeth down to the gumline.
• No artificial flavors or colors.

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with sensitive teeth.

These dog treats are proudly produced in USA facilities and have been accepted by the Veterinary Oral Health Council. They’re ideal for small to medium-sized adult dogs between 20-40 lbs. With a 4.7-star rating and over 9,000 reviews, it’s clear that many dog owners have had success with these treats.

The innovative design with a chewy, porous texture allows your dog to enjoy a tasty treat while also working to keep their teeth clean. The eight distinct ridges help clean hard-to-reach teeth down to the gumline, and the porous texture contains thousands of air pockets to help freshen breath.

While these treats may not be suitable for dogs with sensitive teeth or severe dental issues, they’re a great option for many dogs. They’re also made with wholesome ingredients and without any artificial colors or flavors, so you can feel good about giving them to your furry friend.

Overall, we highly recommend giving the Purina DentaLife Made in USA Facilities Small/Medium Dog Dental Chews a try if you’re looking for a tasty treat that can also help improve your dog’s dental health.

LAPOG Dog Dental Chew Sticks

If you want to keep your dog’s teeth clean and freshen their breath, LAPOG Dog Dental Chew Sticks are a great option.

Pros

• Supports oral wellness and reduces the frequency of dental scaling intervals.
• 100% human-grade food with plant-based proteins sourced from sweet potatoes and insects.
• Naturally crafted from organic black soldier fly insects sourced from smart farms.

Cons

• Packaging may be wasteful for some.

LAPOG Dog Dental Chew Sticks are a great way to keep your dog’s teeth clean and freshen their breath. These chews are specially formulated to replace meat proteins with plant-based proteins sourced from sweet potatoes and insects, which can help boost your dog’s digestion rate and overall nutritional intake. Additionally, these chews are crafted from organic black soldier fly insects sourced from smart farms, making them a sustainable and nutritious choice for your beloved pet.

One of the standout features of LAPOG Dog Dental Chew Sticks is their ability to support oral wellness and reduce the frequency of dental scaling intervals. These chews effectively eliminate the unpleasant gases that cause bad breath while also removing plaque build-up for cleaner and brighter teeth. The high elasticity and density of these chews make them incredibly effective at removing plaque, making them a smart choice for dog owners who want to keep their pet’s teeth clean and healthy.

While LAPOG Dog Dental Chew Sticks are generally well-liked by dogs, some may not enjoy the taste. Additionally, the individual packaging may be wasteful for some pet owners. Finally, these chews may not work as well for larger dogs, as they are specifically designed for small dogs.

Overall, if you’re looking for a natural and effective way to keep your dog’s teeth clean and freshen their breath, LAPOG Dog Dental Chew Sticks are definitely worth considering.

Bocce’s Bakery Dailies Brushy Sticks

If you’re looking for a natural and tasty way to support your dog’s dental health and fresh breath, Bocce’s Bakery Dailies Brushy Sticks might be the answer.

Pros

• Made with limited and simple ingredients like nutty coconut and crisp mint
• Available in 3 sizes to ensure safe treat time
• Proudly baked in the USA with all-natural ingredients

Cons

• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture

The Bocce’s Bakery Dailies Brushy Sticks are designed to help remove plaque and tartar from your dog’s teeth as they chew, thanks to their bristle-shaped texture. The treats are made with simple and natural ingredients like chickpeas, coconut, and peppermint oil, which not only freshen your dog’s breath but also encourage healthy blood flow through the gums.

One of the best things about these dental bars is that they come in 3 different sizes, so you can choose the right one based on your dog’s weight. This ensures that your dog can safely enjoy the treats without any risk of choking or digestive issues.

However, the Bocce’s Bakery Dailies Brushy Sticks are a bit on the expensive side compared to other dental treats on the market. Additionally, some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the treats, so it may take some trial and error to find out if they work for your pup.

Overall, if you’re looking for a natural and effective way to support your dog’s dental health and fresh breath, the Bocce’s Bakery Dailies Brushy Sticks are definitely worth considering.

Pedigree DENTASTIX Fresh Breath Large Dog Dental Treats

If you’re looking for an effective way to freshen up your furry friend’s breath, the Pedigree DENTASTIX Fresh Breath Large Dog Dental Treats might be worth considering.

Pros

• These treats are clinically proven to reduce plaque and tartar buildup, helping to promote better oral hygiene and dental care for your dog.
• The unique X-shape design of these treats makes them easy for your dog to chew and helps to clean teeth and freshen breath.
• The fresh mint flavor of these treats is sure to be a hit with your large breed dog.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that these treats don’t last very long and that their dogs tend to go through them quickly.
• While these treats may be effective at freshening up your dog’s breath, they may not be a substitute for regular dental cleanings and checkups.

If you’re looking for a simple and convenient way to help improve your dog’s oral health, the Pedigree DENTASTIX Fresh Breath Large Dog Dental Treats may be worth considering. These treats are clinically proven to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, and their unique X-shape design makes them easy for your dog to chew and helps to freshen up their breath.

Plus, with a fresh mint flavor that large breed dogs are sure to love, these treats are a great way to keep your furry friend happy and healthy. However, it’s worth keeping in mind that these treats may not be a substitute for regular dental cleanings and checkups, and some customers have reported that they don’t last very long.

Minties VetIQ Dog Dental Bone Treats

If you’re looking for an affordable dog dental chew that will freshen your dog’s breath, then Minties VetIQ Dog Dental Bone Treats is a great option.

Pros

• Contains five breath fresheners to help freshen your dog’s breath.
• Vet recommended dental care in a daily dental chew that dogs love.
• Unique shape and texture that rubs teeth clean, while your dog chews.

Cons

• May not work as well for dogs with severe dental issues.
• Some users have reported receiving bags with fewer treats than advertised.

Minties VetIQ Dog Dental Bone Treats is a great way to help promote good dog oral health. Using them daily helps control tartar and remove plaque build-up, which helps keep your dog’s teeth healthy and clean. These dental chews are made in the USA and contain no wheat, soy, corn, artificial flavor, or animal by-products.

These treats are vet recommended and feature a unique design that encourages dogs to chew, helping to remove plaque, tartar, and bad breath at its source. They also contain five breath fresheners, including alfalfa, parsley, fennel dill, and peppermint, to help freshen your dog’s breath.

While these dental chews are generally well-liked by dogs, some may not like the taste. Additionally, they may not work as well for dogs with severe dental issues. Some users have also reported receiving bags with fewer treats than advertised.

Overall, if you’re looking for a dental chew that will help freshen your dog’s breath and promote good oral health, Minties VetIQ Dog Dental Bone Treats is a solid choice.

Old Mother Hubbard Minty Fresh Breath Natural Dog Treats

If you’re looking for a way to freshen up your furry friend’s breath, Old Mother Hubbard by Wellness Mother’s Solutions Minty Fresh Breath Natural Dog Treats might be just what you need.

Pros

• Freshens breath with spearmint, parsley, and fennel
• Crunchy texture helps clean teeth
• All-natural ingredients with no added artificial preservatives

Cons

• Some dogs may not enjoy the flavor
• Not eligible for international shipping

These crunchy treats are formulated with spearmint, parsley, and fennel to help freshen your pup’s breath, and their crunchy texture helps clean teeth as your pup chews. Made in North America using only the finest globally sourced ingredients and no added artificial preservatives, you can feel good about training and rewarding your dog with Old Mother Hubbard natural dog treats.

While these treats may not be effective for severe bad breath, they can be a great addition to your pup’s dental care routine. Keep in mind that some dogs may not enjoy the flavor, so it’s always a good idea to test out a small bag before purchasing a larger one. Additionally, this product is not eligible for international shipping, so be sure to check with the manufacturer regarding warranty and support issues if you are shipping to an APO/FPO address.

Arm & Hammer Dental Treats for Dogs

If you want to maintain your dog’s dental health while keeping their breath fresh, Arm & Hammer Nubbies Tartar Control Dental Chews in Peanut Butter Flavor are a great option.

Pros

• These dental chews remove plaque and tartar as your dog chews, making them easier than brushing.
• The power of baking soda and natural chlorophyll freshens breath and provides superior dental hygiene, making them a great alternative to rawhide.
• Nubbies dental treats for dogs are highly digestible so that dogs with sensitive stomachs can still enjoy these tasty treats.

Cons

• The treats smell unpleasant to some humans, but dogs seem to love them.

Arm & Hammer Nubbies Tartar Control Dental Chews in Peanut Butter Flavor are a great way to keep your dog’s teeth clean and their breath fresh. As your dog chews, the raised inch nubbies inch remove plaque and tartar, while the baking soda and natural chlorophyll freshen their breath. These dental treats are a safer, healthier, and tastier alternative to rawhide, making them a great choice for aggressive chewers. Additionally, these dental chews are highly digestible, so dogs with sensitive stomachs can still enjoy them.

However, the treats may not be suitable for all dogs, particularly those with gum disease. Additionally, some humans may find the scent of the treats unpleasant. Nonetheless, Arm & Hammer Nubbies Tartar Control Dental Chews in Peanut Butter Flavor are a great option for keeping your dog’s teeth clean and their breath fresh.

Merrick Fresh Kisses Mint Breath Strips Double-Brush Dental Dog Treats

If you’re looking for a natural dog chew that can help keep your dog’s teeth clean and breath fresh, Merrick Fresh Kisses Mint Breath Strips Double-Brush Dental Dog Treats may be a good option.

Pros

• These grain-free, potato-free dog chews are infused with real mint to freshen breath.
• The double-brush design helps clean your dog’s teeth more effectively than other dental dog treats.
• These easily digestible chews are perfect for small dogs weighing 5 to 15 pounds.

Cons

• Some reviewers have found the price to be too high for the size of the treat.

Crafted in Merrick’s Hereford, TX kitchen and cooked in the USA, these dental dog chews are made with only 10 ingredients, including peppermint flakes for fresh breath. While they’re tough enough to last through a happy chewing session, they’re also soft enough to effectively fight plaque and tartar on your dog’s teeth.

Feeding your dog Merrick Fresh Kisses Mint Breath Strips Double-Brush Dental Dog Treats daily can help keep their teeth clean and breath fresh. However, some reviewers have found the price per treat to be too high, and a few have noted inconsistencies in the size of the chews.

Overall, if you’re looking for a natural dog chew that can help with dog teeth cleaning and freshening breath, Merrick Fresh Kisses Mint Breath Strips Double-Brush Dental Dog Treats may be worth considering.

Fido Super Breath Dental Care Bones for Dogs

If you’re looking for a tasty treat to help freshen your dog’s breath and clean their teeth, then Fido Super Breath Dental Care Bones for Dogs might be the perfect choice for your furry friend.

Pros

• These dental care bones are made with natural ingredients like kelp, parsley, and Alfalfa, which help support a healthy immune system and enzyme production.
• The unique v-groove design of these bones is easy for dogs to hold while they chew, and it massages gums and cleans teeth, meaning fresher dog breath.
• Fido Super Breath Dental Care Bones for Dogs are pressure-molded, not baked, making them healthy and safe to digest.

Cons

• These bones are recommended for dogs weighing between 4-18 pounds and aged 6 months+, so they may not be suitable for larger dogs or younger puppies.

Fido Super Breath Dental Care Bones for Dogs have received positive reviews from many happy customers. These bones are a great way to help keep your dog’s teeth clean and their breath fresh, and they’re made with natural ingredients that are safe and healthy for your furry friend. So if you’re looking for a tasty and effective dental care treat for your dog, consider giving Fido Super Breath Dental Care Bones a try.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog treats for bad breath, there are a few key features to look for. Here’s what you should consider:

Ingredients

The ingredients in the dog treats you choose can have a big impact on your dog’s breath. Look for treats made with natural ingredients, such as parsley, mint, and cinnamon, which can help freshen your dog’s breath. Avoid treats made with artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, as these can be harmful to your dog’s health.

Texture

The texture of the treat is important too. Hard, crunchy treats can help scrape away plaque and tartar from your dog’s teeth, which can help improve their breath. Soft treats, on the other hand, may not be as effective at cleaning your dog’s teeth, but they can still be a good option for freshening their breath.

Size

The size of the treat is also important. Look for treats that are appropriately sized for your dog’s breed and weight. Treats that are too small may not be effective at cleaning your dog’s teeth, while treats that are too large can be a choking hazard.

Price

Finally, consider the price of the treats you choose. While it’s important to invest in your dog’s health, you don’t want to break the bank. Look for treats that are reasonably priced and offer good value for your money.

In summary, when choosing the best dog treats for bad breath, look for treats made with natural ingredients, with a texture that suits your dog’s needs, and appropriately sized for your dog’s breed and weight. Consider the price of the treats, but don’t compromise on quality.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some effective treatments for bad breath in dogs?

There are several effective treatments for bad breath in dogs. One of the most common treatments is regular teeth brushing. You can also use dental chews or toys that help clean teeth and freshen breath. Additionally, you can try adding probiotics to your dog’s diet, which can help improve digestion and reduce bad breath.

What are some of the best breath sticks for dogs?

There are many breath sticks available for dogs, but some of the best ones include Greenies Dental Treats, Bernie’s Charming Chompers, and Milk-Bone Brushing Chews. These treats are designed to clean teeth and freshen breath, and they are also tasty and enjoyable for dogs.

Are there any vet-recommended dog breath fresheners?

Yes, there are several vet-recommended dog breath fresheners available. Some of the most popular options include ORAVET Dental Chews for Dogs, Oxyfresh Pet Oral Hygiene Solution, and TropiClean Fresh Breath Water Additive. These products are designed to improve oral health and freshen breath, and they are safe and effective for dogs.

What are some home remedies for dog bad breath?

There are several home remedies that can help freshen your dog’s breath. One of the most effective remedies is adding a small amount of parsley to your dog’s food, which can help neutralize bad breath. You can also try adding a small amount of coconut oil to your dog’s food, which can help improve digestion and reduce bad breath.

Which dog treats are best for freshening breath?

There are many dog treats that are designed to freshen breath, but some of the best options include Greenies Dental Treats, Pedigree DENTASTIX, and Merrick Fresh Kisses. These treats are designed to clean teeth and freshen breath, and they are also tasty and enjoyable for dogs.

How can I prevent my dog’s breath from smelling bad?

There are several things you can do to prevent your dog’s breath from smelling bad. One of the most important things is to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your dog’s teeth regularly. You can also provide your dog with dental chews or toys that help clean teeth and freshen breath. Additionally, you can try adding probiotics to your dog’s diet, which can help improve digestion and reduce bad breath.