One of the most popular questions I receive from pet parents is what can I give my dog to clean teeth and freshen stinky breath.  While there are many dental aids for dogs, the number one recommended method is regular brushing using canine toothpaste.  Unfortunately, this is not always practical due to your dog being an unwilling participant or just not being able to consistently brush your dog’s teeth.  Thankfully, pet parents now have a new and unique preventive dental product to help clean their dog’s teeth while freshening his/her breath  — OraVet Dental Hygiene Chews from Merial.

OraVet Chews look similar to Greenies but that is where the similarity ends.  OraVet Chews are the first and only canine dental product that contain Delmopinol — the active ingredient that works to form a preventive barrier that blocks bacteria, and the future formation of plaque and calculus (tartar) that builds up over time.  Delmopinol is safe and effective and can be found in many human dental products such as GUM PerioShield Oral Health Rinse.  

OraVet Chews are highly palatable and completely dissolvable.  They are designed to be given once daily in lieu of regular brushing but should not be considered a substitute. The chewing action helps to remove some of the plaque buildup and as your dog breaks up the chew, Delmopinol is released, leaving your dog with a fresh vanilla scent on their breath.  As a veterinarian, I have seen the difference in my own dogs that are now enjoying OraVet Chews along with regular brushing.

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Dr. Susan Bonilla is the owner of Passionate Paws Animal Hospital in Waxhaw, offering traditional and complementary treatment options as well as full-service grooming.  She is certified in acupuncture, chiropractic, and physical therapy.  Call 704-256-7576 or e-mail Hello@PassionatePaws.Vet