Bringing home a new puppy means cuddles, playtime, and... bad breath? Yep, even young pups can have stinky breath, and it’s usually a sign that their dental health needs attention. That’s where dental treats can help, but timing is everything.
So, when can I give my puppy dental chews? Let’s break it down.
The Right Age to Start Dental Treats for Puppies
Puppies can typically start enjoying soft, puppy-specific dental chews around 12 weeks of age, once they’ve adjusted to solid food and their baby teeth are in. However, firmer, standard dental sticks made for adult dogs should only be introduced at around 6 months, after their adult teeth have fully come in.
Always choose chews labelled safe for your puppy’s age and weight, supervise chewing, and consult your vet if you’re unsure.
Once they’re ready, dental chews can help:
- Reduce buildup of plaque and tartar
- Freshen breath
- Encourage chewing, which supports healthy jaw development
- Reduce the risk of dental disease
- Provide mental stimulation support as a occupy treat
Make sure the treats you choose are specifically labelled as safe for puppies, and always supervise them while they chew for chocking hazards like splinters
How Many Dental Sticks Can a Puppy Have?
You don’t need to think too hard about how many dental sticks a puppy can have. Just remember that moderation matters. Most vets recommend just one dental stick per day, depending on the size, age, and dietary needs of your pup.
Too many chews can lead to an upset stomach or weight gain. Yes, even the healthy kind. Be sure to factor dental treats into your puppy’s daily calorie intake, and check out our range of healthy supplements for dogs if you’re looking to support their wellbeing in other ways.
What to Look for in Puppy Dental Treats
Not all dental chews are created equal. When shopping for dental treats for puppy care, look for:
- Soft, flexible textures that won’t damage developing teeth
- Puppy-specific formulas
- Natural ingredients with no added nasties
- Vet Approvedl, if possible
Avoid anything too hard, like adult deer antlers, cow hoofs or dense bones, which could crack their baby teeth.
What About Dental Cleaning?
Even with daily chews, your pup might need a professional dental clean down the line. If you’re wondering how safe dog dental cleaning is, rest assured that it's generally low risk and extremely beneficial, especially if your dog shows signs of gum disease or severe plaque buildup. At home go slow and softly, use a pet approved paste and muslin cloth or soft toothbrush.A regular dental check with the vet is a great habit to get into.
When Bad Breath Isn’t Just “Puppy Breath”
Mild puppy breath is normal, but foul-smelling odour could be a sign of dental issues. If you're already noticing bad dog breath, best to consult your vet about it.
Persistent bad breath, drooling, or inflamed gums can also be signs of more serious conditions like stomatitis. Not familiar with this yet? Learn more about stomatitis in dogs to stay informed and proactive.
Keep Their Whole Diet Healthy
Dental health starts with good nutrition. Aside from cleaning, chews and vet care, feeding high-quality food plays a huge role in your pup’s oral and overall health. Explore our range of healthy dog food made with nutritious ingredients, tailored for the wellbeing and vitality of your puppy.
Keep Your Puppy’s Smile Bright with Healthy Pet Co
At Healthy Pet Co, we make it easy to care for your pup’s teeth with safe, vet-approved dental chews and nutritious food designed for growing dogs. No matter if you’re tackling bad breath or starting good habits early, we’ve got everything you need to support their health and happiness.
Shop our puppy dental care range today.
