DIY Dental Chews for Small Dogs: Recipes and Safety Tips

By / June 14, 2025

DIY Dental Chews for Small Dogs: Recipes and Safety Tips

Maintaining your small dog’s dental health is crucial for their overall well-being. Poor oral hygiene can lead to dental disease, causing pain, infection, and even affecting their heart and other organs. While professional dental cleanings are essential, incorporating dental chews into your dog’s routine can significantly contribute to healthier teeth and gums. Store-bought chews can be expensive and sometimes contain questionable ingredients. The good news? You can easily create safe and effective DIY dental chews right in your own kitchen! This article provides recipes and essential safety tips to help you make the best choices for your furry friend’s dental health.

Why DIY Dental Chews?

Commercial dental chews are readily available, but they aren’t always the best option. Many contain artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives that can be harmful to your dog. Some may even be difficult to digest, leading to stomach upset. DIY dental chews allow you to control exactly what your dog is consuming. You can use fresh, natural ingredients that are both healthy and beneficial for their teeth. Plus, making your own chews can be a more cost-effective solution in the long run, especially if you have a small dog who goes through them quickly.

Understanding the Basics of Dog Dental Health

Before diving into recipes, it’s important to understand the basics of dog dental health. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, constantly forms on your dog’s teeth. If not removed, it hardens into tartar, which is much more difficult to remove. Dental chews work by mechanically scraping away plaque and tartar as your dog chews, helping to keep their teeth clean. Some ingredients, like parsley and coconut oil, have natural antibacterial properties that can further support oral hygiene. Regular brushing is also highly recommended in addition to providing dental chews.

Recipe 1: Sweet Potato Dental Chews

Sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins and fiber. Their slightly chewy texture makes them a great base for DIY dental chews. This recipe is simple and uses minimal ingredients.

Ingredients:

  • 1 large sweet potato
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for added flavor and antibacterial benefits)
  • Pinch of cinnamon (optional, for added flavor)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
  2. Wash and peel the sweet potato.
  3. Slice the sweet potato into 1/4-inch thick strips.
  4. If using, melt the coconut oil and brush it lightly over the sweet potato strips. Sprinkle with cinnamon, if desired.
  5. Arrange the strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  6. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until the strips are chewy but not brittle. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the slices.
  7. Let the chews cool completely before giving them to your dog. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Recipe 2: Carrot and Parsley Dental Sticks

Carrots are naturally abrasive, helping to scrub teeth clean. Parsley adds a refreshing flavor and acts as a natural breath freshener, combating bad breath.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large carrots
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 egg (optional, as a binder)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Wash and peel the carrots.
  3. Grate the carrots using a food processor or a hand grater.
  4. In a bowl, combine the grated carrots, chopped parsley, and egg (if using). Mix well.
  5. Roll the mixture into small, stick-like shapes.
  6. Place the sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sticks are firm.
  8. Let the chews cool completely before giving them to your dog. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Recipe 3: Frozen Yogurt and Fruit Bites

This is a refreshing option, especially during warmer months. The frozen texture helps soothe gums and clean teeth. Be sure to use plain, unsweetened yogurt as sweetened yogurts can be harmful to dogs.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt (Greek yogurt is a good option)
  • 1/2 cup blueberries or chopped strawberries (or other dog-safe fruits)

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine the yogurt and fruit. Mix well.
  2. Pour the mixture into silicone molds (small ice cube trays or dog-themed molds work well).
  3. Freeze for at least 2 hours, or until solid.
  4. Give one frozen bite to your dog at a time. Store the remaining bites in the freezer in an airtight container.

Safety Tips for DIY Dental Chews

While DIY dental chews can be a great addition to your dog’s dental care routine, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Always supervise your dog while they’re chewing on anything, especially homemade treats. Here are some important safety considerations:

  • Ingredient Safety: Research all ingredients thoroughly to ensure they are safe for dogs. Avoid ingredients like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol, which are toxic to dogs.
  • Size Matters: Choose a chew size appropriate for your dog’s size and chewing habits. Small dogs need smaller chews to prevent choking.
  • Texture: Ensure the chew has the right texture. It should be firm enough to provide a good chewing experience but not so hard that it could damage your dog’s teeth. Avoid overly hard chews, especially for older dogs or those with dental problems.
  • Supervision is Key: Never leave your dog unattended with a dental chew. This allows you to monitor their chewing and intervene if they break off a large piece that could be a choking hazard.
  • Allergies and Sensitivities: Be aware of any allergies or sensitivities your dog may have. Introduce new ingredients slowly and monitor for any adverse reactions.
  • Moderation: Even healthy chews should be given in moderation. Overdoing it can lead to digestive upset.
  • Consult Your Vet: If you have any concerns about your dog’s dental health or the suitability of a particular recipe, consult your veterinarian.

Beyond Chews: A Holistic Approach to Dental Health

While DIY dental chews are a helpful tool, they are just one part of a comprehensive dental care plan. Regular brushing, professional dental cleanings, and a balanced diet are all essential for maintaining your dog’s oral health. Aim to brush your dog’s teeth at least a few times a week using a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. Schedule regular dental check-ups with your veterinarian to identify and address any potential problems early on. Your vet can also perform professional cleanings to remove tartar buildup that you can’t address at home. Remember, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to dental health.

Conclusion

DIY dental chews offer a safe, affordable, and customizable way to support your small dog’s dental health. By using natural ingredients and following safety guidelines, you can create delicious and beneficial chews that will help keep their teeth clean and their gums healthy. Remember to complement these chews with regular brushing, professional dental cleanings, and a balanced diet for optimal oral hygiene and overall well-being. With a little effort, you can help your furry friend enjoy a happy and healthy smile for years to come!