Do you want your dog to have cleaner teeth and fresher breath? Looking for the best way to reduce plaque buildup on their teeth?

In this post, we’ll cover the top-rated dog plaque removers that veterinarians recommend. We’ll review the 9 best options to help you choose the right plaque-busting products for your pup.

You’ll learn:

• How plaque removers work to scrub away tartar and fight bad breath
• Detailed reviews of the most effective plaque removers for dogs
• Key features to look for when shopping for dog plaque removers

By the end, you’ll know which plaque removers for your dog’s optimal oral health and hygiene. Let’s get started!

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The Importance of Removing Plaque from Your Dog’s Teeth

Just like humans, dogs can develop plaque, tartar, and dental disease if their teeth aren’t properly cared for. Plaque is a soft, sticky film composed of bacteria, food particles, and saliva that adheres to the teeth. If allowed to accumulate, plaque hardens into tartar firmly attached to the teeth.

Left unchecked, plaque and tartar buildup on your dog’s teeth can lead to several oral health issues:

• Tooth decay – Plaque harbors harmful bacteria that can erode enamel and cause cavities in dogs, leading to infections or tooth loss if untreated.
• Gum disease – Plaque buildup at the gumline causes inflammation and infection called gingivitis. If left untreated, it can progress to advanced periodontal disease.
• Bad breath – Volatile sulfur compounds released by plaque bacteria give dogs terrible breath. The problem worsens as more plaque accumulates.
• Systemic health issues – Bacteria from plaque can enter the bloodstream if there is gum disease, potentially affecting internal organs like the heart, kidneys or liver.

Regular plaque removal is as crucial for your dog’s health as brushing your teeth. Here are some signs your dog may have excessive plaque buildup:

• Yellow or brown tartar deposits on the teeth
• Red, inflamed, or bleeding gums
• Bad breath
• Loose or missing teeth
• Reduced appetite or difficulty eating
• Swollen lymph nodes under the jaw

Routine plaque removal can prevent gum disease, tooth decay, bad breath and more. Proper dental care helps dogs enjoy the healthiest smile possible and avoids the expenses of advanced veterinary cleanings and tooth extractions.

How Do Dog Plaque Removers Work?

• Dog plaque removers work in several ways to clean tartar and plaque off your pup’s teeth.
• Mechanical action – Products like dog toothbrushes and dental chews physically scrub the teeth to scrape off soft plaque before it hardens into tartar. The friction helps remove deposits.
• Enzymatic cleaners – Plaque remover gels and powders contain enzymes that help break down and dissolve plaque. This makes it easier to brush away. Common enzymes include glucose oxidase, amyloglucosidase, and lactoperoxidase.
• Antibacterial ingredients – Some plaque removers include natural antibacterial ingredients like chlorhexidine to kill the bacteria in plaque and prevent further buildup.
• Tartar control – Certain plaque remover formulas contain minerals like zinc chloride and potassium chloride that help prevent tartar from adhering to the tooth surface.

Using the right products helps reduce the need for expensive dental cleanings while keeping your dog’s teeth and gums healthy.

What to Look for in the Best Dog Plaque Removers

• With so many dog plaque remover products on the market, it can take time to determine which ones work well. When evaluating your options, keep an eye out for these key features:
• Veterinary approval – Choose a product vets recommend for safety and effectiveness. Human toothpastes often don’t cut.
• Enzymatic ingredients – Formulas with enzymes like glucose oxidase help dissolve plaque so it brushes off easier.
• Dog-savvy flavors – Meaty tastes entice dogs better than mint.
• Ergonomic design – Finger brushes and textured handles provide control while brushing wiggly pups.
• Gentle bristles – Soft bristles clean teeth without irritating delicate gums.
• Dental chews – The chewing action scrapes away plaque, similar to brushing.

Looking for these characteristics will guide you toward the most efficient plaque removers for your dog’s needs. Vet-approved products with teeth-cleaning enzymes, doggie-pleasing flavors, and gentle scrubbing abilities deliver the best results.

The 9 Best Dog Plaque Removers of 2023

What are the top-rated plaque removers that work to clean your dog’s teeth? Which products do veterinarians recommend most?

We reviewed dozens of options and found 9 winners your dog will love.

In this section, you’ll discover the 9 best plaque removers for dogs based on quality, effectiveness, and value.

Get ready to find the right dental products to banish plaque, eliminate tartar, and freshen your pup’s doggy breath!

1.    Dog’s Lounge – CHOMPER

Dog’s Lounge – CHOMPER is a 100% natural dental supplement powder that removes plaque and tartar while freshening breath.

Formulated with an organic blend of seaweed and kelp sourced from Scandinavia and Cornwall, this UK-made powder provides a rich source of vitamins and minerals to support your dog’s oral health.

The main benefits of Dog’s Lounge – CHOMPER include:

• Removing bacteria-laden plaque and tartar buildup
• Preventing future plaque and tartar formation
• Dissolving existing tartar so it’s easy to brush away
• Sustaining fresh breath and neutralizing foul odours
• Assisting with maintaining healthy oral hygiene
• Supporting dental care with vitamins and minerals
• Protecting from gum disease

This supplement comes in a 175g jar and is very simple to use. Just mix the recommended scoop amount (2.5g) into your dog’s wet or dry food once per day. Increase dosage after two weeks if needed.

Key specs:

• Product Dimensions: 7 x 7 x 8.5 cm
• Item Form: Powder
• Size: 175 g
• Breed Recommendation: All sizes and breeds
• Specific Uses: Plaque removal, freshening breath
• Item Weight: 180 g

CHOMPER contains no fillers, artificial ingredients, colours or preservatives. It’s a natural way to care for your dog’s oral health in between brushes.

Give your pup cleaner teeth, healthier gums, and a mouth that smells as fresh as the ocean breeze with Dog’s Lounge CHOMPER!

2.    Swedencare UK ProDen PlaqueOff Dental Bones

Tired of your dog’s stinky breath and plaque-covered teeth? Swedencare UK ProDen PlaqueOff Dental Bones provide a tasty way to clean your pup’s teeth and improve their oral hygiene.

These natural chews contain ProDen PlaqueOff, a seaweed extract clinically proven to reduce plaque and tartar.

As your dog enjoys these savoury dental treats, the active seaweed ingredient works in two ways:

• Internally, it binds to plaque bacteria and prevents it from adhering to teeth and gums. This minimizes plaque adhesion and buildup.
• Externally, it changes the texture of existing tartar, so it is easier to brush away and remove.

This dual action reduces plaque and tartar formation while also breaking down current deposits.

Key Features:

• All-natural ProDen PlaqueOff seaweed extract
• Grain-free, gluten-free recipe
• No artificial preservatives or additives
• Textured veggie flavour dogs love
• Clinically proven to reduce plaque and tartar
• Fights gum disease and tooth decay
• Freshens bad dog breath
• For dogs of all sizes and ages
• Convenient resealable 485g bag
• Pack of 13 dental chews
• It can be broken into smaller pieces for small dogs

These dental bones are proudly made in Sweden by Swedencare, an innovative pet health company with 50+ years of dog and cat supplements expertise.

The vegetable fusion flavour provides a tasty chewing experience that dogs find irresistible. As your pup chews, the abrasive texture and yummy flavour scrape away plaque and tartar. Their teeth get a deep clean without them even realizing it!

In addition to the plaque-fighting effects, the crunchy texture also helps freshen doggy breath. Pet owners love how these dental chews leave their dog’s mouth clean and smelling fresh.

With over 3,800 5-star reviews, customers agree these seaweed dental bones make a remarkable difference in their dog’s oral health and bad breath. Consistent use significantly reduces plaque buildup and keeps teeth clean.

3.    Pets Purest – Natural Plaque Removal Powder

Is your dog’s breath kicking? Are their teeth covered in yucky tartar you have to scrape off? Pets Purest Plaque Off Powder is an easy fix!

This natural powder uses seaweed to clean your pet’s teeth. Just sprinkle some on their food once a day. No toothpaste or brushing is needed!

As your dog or cat eats, the seaweed enzymes work, removing plaque and tartar. It freshens breath at the same time by reducing odours.

Pet owners say Pets Purest Powder:

• It is 100% natural
• Contains no additives or chemicals
• Is veterinarian approved
• Cleans teeth and gums well
• Gets rid of tartar buildup
• Prevents new plaque from forming
• Makes breath fresh again
• Saves money on dental cleanings

With thousands of 5-star reviews, pet parents agree this seaweed powder keeps their dog or cat’s smile sparkling clean!

It’s an easy, budget-friendly way to care for your furry friend’s teeth and gums. Just sprinkle on food and let Pets Purest work its magic!

4.    ProDen PlaqueOff Powder

Got a little pup with stinky doggy breath? ProDen PlaqueOff Powder is a fast, easy way to banish plaque and tartar buildup for small breed dogs.

This natural seaweed-based powder starts working in as little as 1-2 weeks to freshen breath and clean teeth down to the gumline.

Just sprinkle a bit on your small dog’s food once a day. The seaweed ingredients will bind to plaque as they eat and help dissolve tartar. There’s no brushing required!

Pet parents say about ProDen PlaqueOff Powder:

• Veterinarian recommended
• Contains natural seaweed ingredients
• It has no added flavours, colours, or preservatives
• Highly rated by over 28,000 customers
• Easy to sprinkle on food
• Safe if swallowed
• Removes plaque and tartar buildup
• Fights gum disease
• Freshens bad doggy breath
• Saves money on dental cleanings

With over 28,000 reviews, owners report seeing a huge difference in their small dogs’ oral health and teeth cleanliness with regular use of this powder.

ProDen PlaqueOff Powder is specially formulated for smaller breed dogs under 10kg. But you can find options for cats and larger dogs too.

Clean teeth, healthy gums, and kissable breath are just a sprinkle away with ProDen PlaqueOff Powder!

Say goodbye to plaque and pungent doggy breath with this top-rated seaweed supplement. Your pup will thank you!

5.    Plaque Banish 100% Natural Plaque Off

Plaque Banish 100% Natural Plaque Off is an effective seaweed powder that removes plaque, fights tartar and freshens breath for dogs and cats.

This 100% natural formula comes in a 180g jar and contains no artificial additives or preservatives. It uses specially sourced seaweed as the active ingredient.

Just sprinkle the recommended amount onto your pet’s food once daily. As your dog or cat eats, the seaweed binds to plaque and bacteria, stopping tartar buildup and dissolving existing plaque.

Pet owners love that Plaque Banish:

• It is veterinarian-recommended and 100% natural
• Fights plaque, tartar, and bad breath
• Contains no artificial additives or preservatives
• It is easy to sprinkle on food daily
• Provides vitamins and minerals for additional health benefits
• Has thousands of positive customer reviews

Regularly using this 180g jar can help improve oral health and avoid expensive dental cleanings. It’s gentle and effective for dogs and cats of all breeds and ages.

Give your pet fresh breath and clean teeth with Plaque Banish 100% Natural Plaque Off today!

6.    WHIMZEES By Wellness Variety Box

WHIMZEES are natural vegetable-based dental dog chews clinically proven to reduce plaque, tartar, and bad breath.

The WHIMZEES Variety Box provides a sample of different WHIMZEES shapes and sizes for medium-breed dogs between 12-18kg.

Each box contains:

• 7 Alligator chews
• 7 Toothbrush chews
• 7 Vegetable chews
• 7 Stix chews

That’s 28 delicious chews in total!

These grain-free chews are made from natural vegetables like potato starch, cellulose, and glycerin. They contain no wheat, gluten, meat, GMOs, or artificial ingredients.

The vegetable ingredients provide a tasty chewing texture that dogs love while gently cleansing teeth. Unlike rawhide or bone chews, WHIMZEES are entirely edible and digestible.

Key WHIMZEES features:

• All-natural vegetarian formula
• No artificial flavours, colours or preservatives
• Promotes cleaner teeth and fresher breath
• Reduces plaque and tartar buildup
• Hypoallergenic and gentle on digestion
• Long-lasting chew time
• Special ridges and grooves to clean teeth
• Veterinarian recommended
• Made in Holland with the highest quality standards

The unique shapes, like toothbrushes and alligators, make chewing more interesting and fun for dogs. The texture also helps remove plaque and tartar, promoting better oral hygiene than regular treats.

WHIMZEES meet European food quality standards for human consumption. The healthy ingredients and production methods give pet owners peace of mind.

With over 15,000 glowing reviews, WHIMZEES dental chews are proven to clean dogs’ teeth while providing the yummy, long-lasting chew they crave. Say goodbye to bad doggy breath and plaque-covered teeth!

7.    Forthglade Natural Dog Dental Sticks

Forthglade Natural Dog Dental Sticks are a tasty, vet-recommended way to clean your dog’s teeth and freshen their breath.

These natural chews contain peppermint and eucalyptus to help banish plaque and tartar while leaving your dog with minty fresh breath. They are also packed with calcium to support dental health.

Forthglade Dental Sticks come in 170g resealable bags, with each bag containing 15 sticks. A pack of 20 sticks includes 4 bags totalling 680g of dental chews.

Key features:

• All-natural ingredients
• No artificial additives, colours, flavours or preservatives
• Peppermint flavour freshens breath
• Eucalyptus helps fight plaque and tartar
• Calcium supports healthy teeth
• Grain-free and plant-based
• Resealable 170g bags
• 20 sticks per pack, 4 bags total
• For dogs aged 1 year and older
• Voted “Best Health Product” by Your Dog Magazine

These dental chews are made in the UK by Forthglade, who have over 50 years of experience crafting healthy dog foods and treats with natural ingredients and no junk.

Pet owners love how eager their dogs are to chew these dental sticks. The chewing action helps clean teeth and scrape away plaque and tartar. The minty fresh breath is a bonus!

8.    Paw Originals Plaque X

Paw Originals Plaque X is a 100% natural powder that removes plaque and tartar while freshening breath for dogs and cats.

This UK-made formula contains a blend of seaweed, turmeric, parsley, and activated charcoal to fight plaque, promote gum health, and banish bad breath.

It comes in a large 180g jar – one of the most generous sizes for pet dental powders. The recommended veterinarian dose is easy to sprinkle onto your dog or cat’s food daily.

As your pet eats, the natural ingredients cleanse teeth and gums while neutralizing odour-causing bacteria. There’s no toothpaste required – just sprinkle and let the plaque-fighting powders do their job!

Key ingredients in Paw Originals Plaque X:

• Seaweed – contains enzymes that dissolve plaque and tartar
• Turmeric – has anti-inflammatory properties to improve dental health
• Parsley – rich in chlorophyll to sweeten the breath
• Activated charcoal – absorbs toxins and freshens breath
• Pumpkin seed – source of zinc and vitamin K for teeth and gums

In addition to dental benefits, the ingredients also support digestion and immune health. Owners love how the nutritious blend provides whole-body wellness.

Why Paw Originals Plaque X is vet-recommended:

• 100% natural formula, no nasty chemicals
• Fights plaque, tartar, gingivitis, and bad breath
• Supports healthy teeth and gums
• Suitable for cats and dogs of all breeds and sizes
• Convenient powder is easy to use daily
• Pets love the taste mixed into their food
• Generous 180g jar for value and lasting use
• Over 7,000 5-star customer reviews

This natural dental powder makes caring for your dog or cat’s oral health from home easy. Regular use can help reduce tartar buildup, freshen breath, and keep your pet’s gums healthy. Paw Originals Plaque X is a vet-recommended formula pet owners trust for clean teeth and fresh breath.

9.    RUCACIO Dog Chew Toys

The RUCACIO Dog Chew Toys provide a unique teeth cleaning and breath freshening solution for dogs.

These durable chew toys are made of natural rubber with specialized bumps and ridges designed by veterinarians to clean tartar and plaque as dogs chew and play.

The unique chew toy design features:

• Molar bumps to massage gums
• Serrated grooves to scrape tartar
• Milk flavour dogs love
• Materials safe for chewing

The chewing action scrapes away plaque and tartar buildup on the surface of teeth, helping clean hard-to-reach back molars. The indentations are perfect for holding toothpaste or peanut butter to make chewing more enticing and practical.

Other key features:

• Veterinarian designed for optimal dental care
• Made of 100% natural rubber
• For medium-breed dogs 20-40 lbs
• Helps relieve stress and boredom
• Provides interactive play
• Durable and bounceable
• Freshens doggy breath over time
• Available in multiple sizes for any dog

These interactive chew toys enrich dogs by satisfying their natural urge to chew. The dental bumps and grooves make chewing doubly purposeful by scrubbing teeth clean too.

RUCACIO Dog Chew Toys are thoughtfully designed to clean tartar, massage gums, and freshen breath for healthier teeth and better oral hygiene. Your pup will love playing with these toy toothbrushes!

Let your dog chew to a brighter, fresher smile with RUCACIO Dog Chew Toys. It might just be their new favourite playtime activity!

Key Factors To Consider When Choosing a Dog Plaque Remover

Effectiveness

When choosing a dog plaque remover, effectiveness should be your top priority. Look for products containing enzymatic cleaners, antibacterial ingredients, or abrasive textures clinically shown to reduce plaque and tartar.

Customer reviews can help determine real-world results. The most effective plaque removers clean above and below the gumline and works to prevent future buildup. Don’t waste money on products that fail to deliver visible dental cleaning results.

Safety

Choosing a dog plaque remover that is veterinarian-approved and safe if swallowed is crucial. Many human oral care products contain xylitol and other ingredients that can be toxic to dogs. Seek out all-natural formulas free of harsh chemicals.

Review ingredients to avoid alcohol, strong flavours, and dyes. Safe plaque removers will be gentle on your dog’s gums and digestive system. Consulting your vet about the safety of a product can give added peace of mind.

Tips for Using Dog Plaque Removers

Using the right dog plaque removers makes caring for your pup’s oral health easier. Here are some tips to get the best results from teeth cleaning products.

Brush Regularly

Daily tooth brushing is essential for dogs to reap the benefits of plaque removers fully. Use an enzymatic toothpaste and soft-bristle brush designed for dogs. Gently brush all surface areas above and below the gumline. Break up plaque before it hardens into tartar.

Brushing distributes the plaque remover and gives it better contact with teeth. Establish a consistent brushing routine so your dog accepts it as part of their care.

Use Dental Treats

Dental treats and chews help scrub your dog’s teeth while they enjoy chewing. They provide abrasive mechanical cleaning on top of enzymatic plaque removers. The chewing action loosens debris and reduces buildup, similar to brushing.

Dental treats also freshen your breath. Look for veterinarian-approved options free of artificial ingredients. Use chews as a supplement to brushing, not a replacement. Combine brushing, dental treats, and plaque removers for optimal oral care.

Conclusion

Regular plaque removal is key to maintaining your dog’s oral health and preventing dental disease. Allowing tartar and bacteria buildup can lead to tooth decay, gum infection, and bad breath.

Incorporating the right dog plaque removers into your pup’s care routine lets you easily keep their smile sparkling between professional cleanings. Enzymatic powders, gels, toothpaste, dental treats, and other vet-recommended products help banish plaque before it hardens into tartar.

When shopping for dog plaque removers, look for effective ingredients clinically shown to fight tartar and freshen your breath. Make sure to choose safe, all-natural formulas approved for dog use. Review ratings and reviews to discover real-world results from other pet owners.

With the top-rated plaque-fighting products, you can feel confident you’re giving your dog the best oral care at home. Their clean teeth, healthy gums, and fresh “kissable” doggy breath will be sure signs their plaque removers are working wonderfully.

Here’s to many more years of your furry friend flashing adorable, plaque-free grins! You can easily maintain picture-perfect dental health with the right plaque remover products.

FAQs

1.    What are some signs my dog has plaque buildup?

Some signs your dog may have excessive plaque buildup include yellow/brown tartar deposits on the teeth, red or inflamed gums, bad breath, loose or missing teeth, reduced appetite, or difficulty eating. Swollen lymph nodes under the jaw can also indicate plaque issues.

2.    How often should I use a dog plaque remover?

Use your chosen dog plaque remover daily as part of your pup’s oral care routine for best results. Using plaque-fighting products regularly helps prevent tartar buildup and keeps teeth clean between professional vet visits.

3.    Are plaque removers safe for dogs to ingest?

Be sure to choose veterinarian-approved plaque removers designed specifically for dogs. Many human oral care products contain xylitol and other ingredients that can be toxic for dogs if ingested. Review ingredients carefully and consult your vet if unsure.

4.    Should plaque removers replace brushing?

No, plaque removers should supplement daily tooth brushing, not as a replacement. The mechanical scrubbing action of brushing works with enzymatic cleaners and antibacterial ingredients in plaque removers for the most effective oral care.

5.    How do I introduce my dog to using plaque removers?

Start slowly with pet-friendly flavours and build up to regular use. Let your dog sample the taste first before using a finger brush or fully brushing. Praise and reward cooperation. Eventually, your dog will accept plaque removers as part of their routine!

Once you’ve tackled your dog’s dental care needs, why not give them the full spa treatment? Our guide on the best dog shampoos will help you choose the right product for a shiny and fresh-smelling coat.