Dental Chews vs. Raw Bones: What’s Best for Dog Dental Cleaning in 2025?

Oral health is often overlooked in dogs until there’s a problem—but did you know poor dental hygiene can lead to serious health issues? In 2025, more Aussie pet owners are taking dog dental cleaning seriously, and rightly so. It’s not just about fresh breath. It’s about preventing painful infections, tooth loss, and even heart or kidney problems.

Two of the most talked-about at-home dental care options today are dental chews and raw bones. But which is better for your dog?

At Balmain Veterinary Hospital, we help pet parents understand the safest and most effective ways to support their dog’s oral hygiene. Here’s a clear comparison to help you decide what works best for your furry mate.

Why Dog Dental Cleaning Matters More Than Ever

By the age of three, most dogs show signs of periodontal disease. That’s why dog dental cleaning is no longer considered optional—it’s a vital part of a pet’s overall health plan.

Without cleaning, plaque builds up, hardens into tartar, and leads to gum disease, discomfort, and eventually tooth loss. In severe cases, bacteria from the mouth can spread to internal organs.

Professional dog dental cleaning and consistent at-home care go hand-in-hand to prevent these issues.

 

Option 1: Dental Chews

Benefits

• Scientifically formulated: Many chews are developed to reduce plaque and tartar effectively.
• Easy to use: No preparation required.
• Safe for most dogs: Less likely to damage teeth when compared to hard bones.
• Breath-freshening: Some chews are designed to neutralise odours.

What to Watch

• Choose products with the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) seal of approval.
• Avoid chews with high sugar or fat content.
• Supervise your dog to prevent choking or swallowing large pieces.

Vet Insight

Dental chews are a convenient part of a dog dental cleaning routine, especially for busy pet parents. But quality matters—low-grade treats won’t do the job.

 

Option 2: Raw Bones

Benefits

• Natural cleaning action: Chewing bones can help scrape plaque off teeth.
• Mental stimulation: Keeps dogs busy and reduces boredom.
• Nutritional boost: Soft, edible bones offer calcium and phosphorus.

Potential Risks

• Tooth fractures: Weight-bearing bones are too hard and may crack teeth.
• Choking hazards: Splintered bone fragments can be dangerous.
• Bacterial risk: Raw meat can contain Salmonella or E. coli.

Vet Insight

If you opt for bones, choose raw, soft bones like chicken necks or lamb ribs, and never feed cooked bones. Always supervise chewing sessions.

What’s Best for Dog Dental Cleaning?

The truth is—there’s no single answer. The best option depends on your dog’s:

• Breed and size
• Chewing behaviour
• Age and dental history
• Overall health

For some dogs, daily dental chews are enough. Others benefit from occasional supervised raw bones. However, neither replaces the need for professional dog dental cleaning.

 

The Role of Professional Dog Dental Cleaning

Even with the best home care, plaque can build up in hard-to-reach places. That’s why professional dog dental cleaning is essential for long-term oral health.

At Balmain Vet, our comprehensive cleaning process includes:

• A full mouth examination under general anaesthetic
• Ultrasonic scaling to remove tartar
• Polishing to reduce future buildup
• Extractions if necessary
• Ongoing dental care guidance

We tailor each procedure based on your dog’s specific needs and health history.

 

Home Dental Care Tips That Support Professional Cleanings

To get the most out of your dog’s dental cleanings, pair them with daily or weekly routines at home. Here’s how:

• Brush their teeth 2–3 times a week with dog-safe toothpaste.
• Use VOHC-approved dental chews as a treat and cleaner.
• Consider raw bones occasionally—only if approved by your vet.
• Book regular check-ups for ongoing assessment.

Consistency is the key to maintaining results between professional visits.

 
Final Thoughts

Dog dental cleaning is more than a cosmetic concern—it’s a core part of your pet’s well-being. Whether you choose dental chews, raw bones, or both, always base your decisions on your dog’s unique needs and consult with your vet.

Ready to give your dog a healthy smile?

Visit our Dog Dental Cleaning Services page to learn more or book an appointment.

Explore more veterinary care tips and services at Balmain Veterinary Hospital.