Dental disease affects over 80% of dogs over the age of three — making it the most common health condition in domestic dogs. Untreated dental disease causes pain, difficulty eating, bad breath, tooth loss, and bacterial infections that can spread to the heart, liver, and kidneys. Dental chews provide a mechanical cleaning action: the chewing process physically scrapes plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces, supplementing (but never replacing) regular tooth brushing and professional veterinary dental cleanings.
What Is VOHC Approval?
The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) awards its seal of acceptance only to dental products that have demonstrated at least a 15% reduction in plaque or tartar in independent clinical trials. This is the gold standard for dental efficacy — if a product carries the VOHC seal, it has been scientifically proven to work. Many dental products make vague “teeth cleaning” claims without any clinical evidence; look specifically for the VOHC seal.
Quick Comparison: Best Dog Dental Chews UK 2026
| Product | VOHC Approved | Key Result | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Greenies Original | ✅ Yes | 60% tartar reduction | Overall best / All sizes |
| WHIMZEES Brushzees | ✅ Plaque + Tartar | 20% plaque reduction | Vegetarian / Grain-free |
| Virbac VeggieDent | ✅ Tartar | Z-shape design / Zinc formula | Plant-based / Vet-recommended |
| OraVet Hygiene Chews | ✅ Yes | Delmopinol barrier coating | Prevention-focused |
Complete Dental Care Routine
- Daily brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste (enzymatic formula). The single most effective thing you can do.
- Daily dental chew (VOHC-approved). Supplements brushing on the back teeth that are hardest to reach with a toothbrush.
- Professional dental scaling at the vet (annually or as recommended). Removes calcified tartar that cannot be removed by brushing or chewing.
- Water additives (VOHC-approved options available) — an additional layer for dogs who resist brushing.
For toothbrushes and toothpaste reviews, see our Best Dog Toothbrush and Dog Toothpaste UK guides.
Part of our Dog Health Guide.