Dogs are prone to dental issues just like us. Regular teeth cleaning is the best way to keep your dog’s teeth clean and prevent dental disease. There are also the well-known regular dental checkups at the vet. But, did you know that food plays a big role as well?

Indeed, some types of food are beneficial to your pup’s teeth but some increase the chance of developing dental disease. That’s why it’s important to know which foods to give your dog for healthy teeth. Let’s check them out!

5 Foods to Give Your Dog for Healthy Teeth

1. Bones

Raw bones are a must-have food for every dog. It’s because they provide them with enough calcium, which is essential for strong teeth and bones, in general. Bones also clean their teeth and help prevent tartar from building up. Moreover, they contain enzymes and bacteria that help maintain the balance of the bacterial flora in the dog’s mouth and kill the bad bacteria which cause gingivitis and lead to other oral issues.

2. Special Dog Chews

It’s no secret that dogs LOVE to chew. They would chew your shoes if they could! (just kidding, but it’s possible *smile*) As chewing is their most favorite thing to do, kind of a hobby, dog chews come as the perfect dog treat. You can find yak chews and bully sticks as some of the most common dog chews on the market. Apart from being extremely tasty, they are also healthy.

Dog chews like bully sticks and yak chews are beneficial for dogs’ dental health. They reduce plaque buildup, keep the breath fresh, and help prevent gum inflammation and dental disease. Moreover, they are packed with proteins, which strengthen their muscles and coat, as well as with minerals and other nutrients.

3. Oats

Oats are kind of a nutrient bomb. They are rich in minerals, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus, as well as vitamins, including vitamins B, E, and G. As such, they provide dogs with lots of nutrients essential for strong teeth and bones.

4. Parsley

Dogs can’t chew bubble gums to freshen up their breath. So, how can you keep their breath fresh? By feeding them with parsley!

Parsley is the perfect dog breath freshener since it has powerful antibacterial properties. You can mix it into your pooch’s food as a whole food or in the form of tinctures or tea.

5. Cranberries

Yes, you read that right!

Dogs can also eat cranberries, not just humans. As a matter of fact, this fruit is one of the most beneficial for dogs as it contains A LOT of nutrients, including flavonoids, condensed tannins, phenolic acids, and anthocyanins.

A study carried out by researchers from the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry and New York’s Rutgers University showed that cranberries inhibit the enzymes responsible for plaque buildup and prevent bacteria from sticking to the teeth’ surface. Moreover, they prevent tooth decay by preventing the formation of acids and reducing the acid tolerance of bacteria.In addition, a study published in the Journal of Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry showed that cranberries contain a substance referred to as non-dialysable material (NDM). This substance can reduce the coaggregation of specific bacteria responsible for plaque and dental disease.