Dog Dental Health - Foods That Naturally Clean Teeth
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Dental disease affects more than 80% of dogs over the age of three. Left unmanaged, it can lead to gum inflammation, infections, bad breath and even tooth loss. While brushing is still the gold standard for canine oral care, it’s not always easy to do every day—especially with wriggly pups or nervous dogs.
The good news? Certain natural foods can help clean your dog’s teeth as part of a broader dental care routine.
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Why Diet Matters for Canine Oral Health
We often think of dental health in terms of brushing, but what your dog eats makes a big difference too. Foods that encourage chewing can help remove soft plaque and increase saliva flow, which naturally cleans the mouth. But it’s not just about crunch. The nutrients in your dog’s diet - especially anti-inflammatory ingredients - also play a key role in supporting healthy gums and managing bacteria in the mouth.
While some soft diets have been linked to higher plaque levels, this depends on the formulation. High-quality, softer foods like Years are designed to work with your dog’s body, supporting both oral and joint health. By including ingredients that promote gum health and reduce inflammation, they offer nutrients that support your dog’s teeth and gums from the inside out.
For a full-spectrum approach, pair your dog’s soft food with natural chews, like Years’ Healthy Teeth & Happy Joint Bars and Tasty Harvest Rewards, or dental-friendly veg like carrots and broccoli stalks. This way, they get the benefits of both nutrition and natural cleaning action.
Natural Foods That Support Cleaner Teeth
Although no food can replace brushing entirely, some fruits, vegetables and chews can help keep your dog’s mouth fresher between brushings. These foods offer texture, promote chewing and may even reduce harmful bacteria naturally.
Carrots
Raw or very lightly steamed carrots have a fibrous crunch that helps remove soft plaque from the surface of teeth. They’re also packed with vitamin A and beta-carotene, which support vision and a healthy immune system. Feed whole but supervise - if your dog isn't a good chewer, try our alternative suggestions below.
Broccoli Stalks
Often overlooked, broccoli stalks are firm and fibrous - making them great for cleaning teeth. They encourage chewing and saliva production while providing valuable antioxidants and fibre. They also have a lower sugar content than carrots, so would actually be preferable if your dog enjoys them!
Celery
Celery’s stringy texture works a bit like natural floss. It’s also rich in antioxidants. Not all dogs love the taste, but if yours does, it can be a handy dental snack.
Courgette and Cucumber
These low-calorie vegetables are gentle on the stomach and offer mild crunch with high water content. This helps support saliva flow and proper hydration, which naturally washes away food particles.
Apples (Seedless)
Crisp apple slices can help clean teeth while delivering fibre and vitamin C. Just remember to remove the seeds and core, as apple seeds can be harmful to dogs.
Blueberries
Small but mighty, blueberries contain antioxidants and natural acids that may help reduce oral bacteria. They make great training treats or food toppers - just don’t overdo it.
Cantaloupe and Watermelon
These refreshing fruits are rich in hydration and offer a gentle chew texture. Be sure to remove seeds and rind before offering them to your dog in small chunks.
Raw Meaty Bones and Chews
Chewing on raw meaty bones - like lamb ribs, turkey necks or beef brisket bones - can help scrape away built-up plaque and tartar. They also provide jaw exercise and mental enrichment, as well as help improve stress resilience and promote relaxation! It’s important to only feed raw bones that are appropriately sized for your dog, and always supervise during chewing. Never feed cooked bones, as these can splinter and cause serious harm.
Natural chews like dried fish skins, yak milk sticks, or air-dried tendons also help keep your dog’s teeth cleaner. Look for options with simple ingredients and no artificial additives, like Years’ new Milk Bars.
Pair Chewing with Brushing
Brushing your dog’s teeth daily is still the most effective way to reduce plaque and tartar - up to three times more effective than dental chews alone. But if brushing every day isn’t practical, even brushing a few times a week can make a big difference, especially when combined with dental-friendly foods and chews.
Supporting Dental Health with Supplements from Years
Natural foods and brushing go a long way, but sometimes dogs need a little extra support. That’s where targeted supplements come in.
- Years Healthy Teeth & Happy Joints combines ingredients that support both oral and joint health. It’s ideal for dogs who need gum-strengthening support and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Years Plaque Guard helps slow plaque build-up and freshens breath naturally. It contains seaweed which also helps to reduce certain bacteria in the stomach that can promote bad breath and poor dental health. It’s a simple way to support daily oral hygiene—especially for dogs who don’t love brushing.
These supplements are designed to work alongside your regular dental routine, offering targeted support without disrupting your dog’s diet. As always, check with your vet before starting a new supplement.
What foods naturally clean dogs’ teeth?
Fibrous vegetables like carrots, broccoli stalks and celery can help clean dogs’ teeth by encouraging chewing and saliva production. Fruits like apples (seedless) and blueberries also offer gentle abrasion and natural antioxidants that support oral health.
Are carrots good for dogs’ teeth?
Yes - raw or lightly steamed carrots act like a natural toothbrush. Their firm texture helps remove soft plaque, and they’re packed with vitamin A and fibre.
Do dogs need to brush their teeth if they eat dental chews or raw bones?
Brushing is still the most effective way to prevent plaque and gum disease. Dental chews and raw bones can help reduce tartar, but they work best alongside regular brushing and dental checkups.
Can raw bones clean my dog’s teeth?
Raw meaty bones can be very effective at scraping away plaque and tartar. Choose appropriately sized raw bones and always supervise your dog while chewing. Never feed cooked bones - they can splinter and cause harm.
What’s the best supplement for dog dental health?
Supplements like Years Plaque Guard help slow down plaque build-up and freshen breath naturally. Pairing them with a balanced diet, natural chews and occasional brushing creates a complete dental care routine.
About the author
Alyssa
Alyssa Ralph – MSc PGDip BSc(Hons)
Alyssa is a dual-qualified Clinical Animal Behaviourist and Canine Nutritionist with three degrees in behaviour, welfare and nutrition. She specialises in the link between emotional wellbeing and diet, helping dogs and their caregivers lead healthier lives. Having supported hundreds of dogs with issues like reactivity, anxiety and fussy eating, her work often transforms both health and behaviour.
