Best Dog Food for Bad Teeth: Top Picks for Healthy Canine Smiles

Dental hygiene is an essential aspect of any dog’s health. While regular brushing and dental checkups are necessary, the food they eat also plays a crucial role in maintaining their dental health. If your furry friend has bad teeth, switching to the best dog food for bad teeth can make a significant difference.

Dog food designed for dental health is specially formulated to promote healthy teeth and gums. These foods have a unique texture that helps to scrape away plaque and tartar as your dog chews. They also contain ingredients that promote fresh breath and reduce the risk of tooth decay.

When choosing the best dog food for bad teeth, it’s essential to pay attention to the ingredients. Look for foods that contain high-quality protein, whole grains, and vegetables. Avoid foods that contain artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors, as they can be harmful to your dog’s health.

We spent hours researching and testing various dog foods to identify the best options for dogs with bad teeth. In the following sections, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide to the best dog food for bad teeth, including our top picks and what to look for when making a purchase.

Best Dog Food for Bad Teeth

We all want our furry friends to have healthy teeth, but sometimes dental issues can arise despite our best efforts. Fortunately, there are dog foods specially formulated to promote good dental health and prevent tooth decay. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best dog food options for bad teeth. Our team of experts has carefully researched and tested each product to ensure that they are effective and safe for your pup. Keep reading to find the perfect food for your furry companion.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Oral Care, Chicken, Rice -amp; Barley Recipe, 4 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a dog food that can help improve your furry friend’s dental health, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Oral Care Chicken, Rice -amp; Barley Recipe is a great choice.

Pros

• Clinically proven kibble technology helps reduce plaque and tartar build-up
• Interlocking fiber technology cleans teeth and supports fresh breath with every bite
• Made with natural ingredients and Omega-6 fatty acids -amp; Vitamin E for healthy skin and coat

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble
• More expensive than some other dog food options

We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Oral Care for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s dental health. The kibble is designed to reduce plaque and tartar build-up, and we’ve definitely noticed a difference in the amount of buildup on our dog’s teeth. The interlocking fiber technology also seems to be working well, as our dog’s breath is much fresher than it used to be.

We appreciate that this dog food is made with natural ingredients and contains Omega-6 fatty acids -amp; Vitamin E for healthy skin and coat. However, we do wish it was a bit more affordable, as it is more expensive than some other dog food options.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Oral Care Chicken, Rice -amp; Barley Recipe for anyone looking for a dog food that can help improve their dog’s dental health.

Purina Moist and Meaty Steak Flavor Soft Dog Food Pouches

If you’re looking for a convenient, tasty, and affordable dog food option for your furry friend with bad teeth, Purina Moist and Meaty Steak Flavor Soft Dog Food Pouches are worth considering.

Pros

• The individual pouches make it easy to serve and store.
• The soft and meaty texture is perfect for dogs with bad teeth.
• Made with real beef, this dog food is a tasty treat for your furry friend.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• The ingredients list includes meat by-products, which may not be ideal for some pet owners.
• The pouches are not environmentally friendly and can generate a lot of waste.

We’ve been using Purina Moist and Meaty Steak Flavor Soft Dog Food Pouches for a few months now, and our dog loves it. The soft and meaty texture is perfect for her bad teeth, and the individual pouches make it easy to serve and store. We also appreciate that it’s made with real beef, which is a tasty treat for our furry friend.

One downside to this dog food is that some dogs may not like the taste. Additionally, the ingredients list includes meat by-products, which may not be ideal for some pet owners. Finally, the pouches are not environmentally friendly and can generate a lot of waste, which is something to keep in mind.

Overall, if you’re looking for a convenient, tasty, and affordable dog food option for your furry friend with bad teeth, Purina Moist and Meaty Steak Flavor Soft Dog Food Pouches are definitely worth considering.

Forza10 Active Oral Care Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dental care dog food that can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, then Forza10 Active Oral Care Dog Food might be the right choice for your dog.

Pros

• The formula is designed to help fight causes of bad breath and mouth irritations, and support oral health and a healthy oral cavity.
• The clinically proven Active Fresh System kibble food keeps your dog’s mouth clean, making it a great canine dental solution.
• The main ingredient is wild-caught anchovy, which is rich in Omega-6 and Omega-3, making it a healthy limited ingredient dog food.

Cons

• The smell of the food might be too fishy for some dog owners.
• It’s a bit pricey compared to some other dog food options.
• Some dogs might not like the taste of the food.

We’ve been using Forza10 Active Oral Care Dog Food for a few weeks now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s breath and overall oral health. The kibble size is perfect for our dog’s small mouth, and he seems to enjoy the taste of the food.

The fact that it’s a limited ingredient dog food gives us peace of mind that we’re not feeding our dog unnecessary fillers or additives. We also appreciate that the food can be used as dental treats for dogs, which makes it a convenient option for maintaining our dog’s oral health.

One thing to note is that the food does have a strong fishy smell, which might be off-putting for some dog owners. However, we’ve found that the benefits of the food outweigh the smell.

Overall, if you’re looking for a dental care dog food that can help control hypersalivation and gingivitis, reduce plaque and tartar buildup, and serve as a healthy substitution for everyday dog treats, Forza10 Active Oral Care Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Hill’s Science Diet Oral Care Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that can help improve your furry friend’s dental health, Hill’s Science Diet Oral Care Dog Food may be worth considering.

Pros

• The clinically proven kibble technology helps reduce plaque and tartar build-up.
• The interlocking fiber technology cleans canine teeth and supports fresh breath with every bite.
• Made with natural ingredients and Omega-6 fatty acids -amp; Vitamin E for healthy skin and coat.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble.
• The bag size may not be large enough for larger dogs or for those who eat a lot.
• The price may be higher than other dog foods on the market.

We recently tried Hill’s Science Diet Oral Care Dog Food for our dog who has bad teeth. After just a few weeks, we noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s dental health. The kibble technology really does help reduce plaque and tartar build-up, and the interlocking fiber technology keeps our dog’s teeth clean and breath fresh. Plus, the natural ingredients and added Omega-6 fatty acids -amp; Vitamin E have made his coat shinier and healthier.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble. Our dog didn’t seem to mind, but we’ve heard from other dog owners that their dogs were hesitant to eat it. Additionally, the bag size may not be large enough for larger dogs or for those who eat a lot. Finally, the price may be higher than other dog foods on the market, but we think it’s worth it for the dental health benefits.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Oral Care Dog Food for any dog with bad teeth or dental issues. It’s made a noticeable difference in our dog’s dental health, and we’re confident it will do the same for yours.

Purina ONE Dry Dog Food Lamb and Rice Formula

We highly recommend the Purina ONE Dry Dog Food Lamb and Rice Formula for dogs with bad teeth.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real lamb which provides high-quality protein for strong muscles and a healthy heart.
• Contains natural sources of glucosamine for joint health, vitamins A and E for bright eyes, and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals for a shiny coat and healthy skin.
• Made with prebiotic fiber to support gut health and immune system.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of lamb.
• The kibble size may be too big for smaller dogs.
• Contains rice which may not be suitable for dogs with grain allergies.

We have been using Purina ONE Dry Dog Food Lamb and Rice Formula for a few months now, and we have seen a significant improvement in our dog’s dental health. The crunchy kibble helps to clean his teeth and reduce tartar buildup. Our dog loves the taste of the lamb and rice formula, and we have noticed an improvement in his coat and overall health.

The natural ingredients in this dog food provide complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs. It is highly digestible and supports a microbiome balance. We appreciate that Purina ONE is produced in U.S. facilities where they take steps to make it good for our dog and good for the environment.

Overall, we highly recommend the Purina ONE Dry Dog Food Lamb and Rice Formula for dogs with bad teeth. It provides high-quality protein, supports gut health and immune system, and promotes joint health and healthy skin and coat.

Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food Chicken and Chicken -amp; Duck Recipes in Bone Broth Variety Pack, 2 oz. Tubs, Pack of 8 Variety Pack 2 Ounce (Pack of 8)

If you’re looking for a simple and natural dog food that will help your furry friend’s dental health, Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is a great option. Made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken and duck, and without grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy, this natural dog food will make your dog do a happy dance.

Pros

• Made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient and real duck
• Contains only 7 natural ingredients
• Mix this dog food in with your dog’s favorite Nutro Dry Dog Food for added flavor and ultimate tail wags

Cons

• Expensive
• Sometimes clumps together weird
• Not suitable for large dogs

We have been using Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement for a while now, and we have noticed that our dog’s teeth are cleaner and healthier. The high-quality protein, real vegetables, and bone broth make this food a great addition to your dog’s diet.

We love that this dog food complement is versatile and can be used as a mix-in, topper, or snack. It’s also easy to open and serve, and our dog loves the taste.

One downside is that it can be a bit expensive compared to other dog food options. Also, sometimes the food clumps together weird, but our dog still seems to like it. Lastly, this product is not suitable for large dogs, as the 2 oz. tubs may not be enough to satisfy their hunger.

Overall, Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is a great option for those looking for a natural and simple dog food that will help with their dog’s dental health. If you’re willing to pay a bit more for quality ingredients, this product is definitely worth considering.

Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe, 24 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a nutritious and tasty dog food that supports your dog’s needs, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is a great option.

Pros

• Real salmon is the number one ingredient, providing quality protein for strong muscles.
• Nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin promote healthy digestion and immune system health.
• Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from salmon help support healthy skin and coat, while taurine supports a healthy heart.

Cons

• Some customers reported that the food looked and smelled different from previous purchases.
• A few dogs did not like the taste of the kibble.
• The price may be higher than other dog food brands.

We recently tried this grain-free dry dog food with our furry friend and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the positive impact it had on his overall health. The kibble is small enough for dogs of all sizes to eat comfortably, and the added vitamins and minerals ensure that your dog is getting all the nutrients they need.

One thing to note is that some customers reported that the food looked and smelled different from previous purchases, which could be a concern for some pet owners. Additionally, while most dogs enjoy the taste of this food, a few picky eaters may not be as enthusiastic.

Overall, we highly recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe for dogs who need a high-quality, nutritious diet. While it may be pricier than other brands, the benefits to your dog’s health and wellbeing are worth it.

IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken

We highly recommend IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for dogs with bad teeth.

Pros

• This dog food is 100% complete and balanced, containing 0% fillers, and supports whole body health with essential nutrients.
• It features prebiotics and guaranteed live probiotics to support regularity and healthy stools with a blend of natural fiber and prebiotics.
• Made with real farm-raised chicken as the #1 ingredient, this dog food is formulated without wheat, artificial flavors or preservatives.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• The kibble size may be too large for smaller breeds.
• The price point may be higher than other dog food brands.

We have been using IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for our dog with bad teeth for several months now and have noticed a significant improvement in his overall dental health. The kibble is easy for him to chew and digest, and he loves the taste. We appreciate that it is made with real, high-quality ingredients and is free from artificial flavors and preservatives.

In addition to supporting digestive health, this dog food also supports nutrient absorption and provides the energy our dog needs for everyday activities. We also appreciate that IAMS offers a portfolio of wet and dry food for puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs, providing tailored nutrition for every pet’s unique needs at every stage of life.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for dogs with bad teeth.

TropiClean Fresh Breath Original | Dog Oral Care Water Additive | Dog Breath Freshener Additive for Dental Health | VOHC Certified | Made in the USA | 33.8 oz. Original 33.8 fl oz (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend TropiClean Fresh Breath Original dog oral care water additive for pet owners looking for an easy-to-use solution to improve their dog’s dental health and freshen their breath.

Pros

• Freshens breath in 14 days or less
• Helps control plaque and tartar buildup
• Easy to use with no brushing required

Cons

• May take longer than 14 days to see results
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May not be as effective for severe dental issues

TropiClean Fresh Breath Original is a great option for pet owners who want to improve their dog’s dental health without the hassle of brushing their teeth. This water additive is easy to use and can freshen your dog’s breath in just 14 days. Plus, it helps control plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to more serious dental issues down the line.

One of the best things about TropiClean Fresh Breath Original is how easy it is to use. Simply measure 1/2 capful of the water additive to 8 oz. of clean water, twice daily. No brushing required! This makes it a great option for dogs who are resistant to having their teeth brushed.

While TropiClean Fresh Breath Original is effective for controlling plaque and tartar buildup, it may take longer than 14 days to see results in some dogs. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of the water additive, which could make it difficult to use.

Overall, we highly recommend TropiClean Fresh Breath Original for pet owners looking for an easy-to-use solution to improve their dog’s dental health and freshen their breath. It’s a great option for dogs with mild to moderate dental issues, and can help prevent more serious issues down the line.

Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult 11 Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult 11 Dry Dog Food for small-breed dogs who are 11 years or older.

Pros

• The prebiotic fiber in the small kibble promotes healthy digestion in older dogs.
• Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil help support joint health and mobility.
• The balanced set of minerals in this senior dog food supports a healthy heart, healthy kidneys, and a healthy bladder in toy breed dogs.

Cons

• The kibble size may not be suitable for dogs with severe dental issues.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food.
• The price point is higher than other brands.

We have found that this dog food is highly effective in maintaining our senior dog’s healthy skin and coat with nourishing omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E. The special antioxidant blend in this food also supports our mature dog’s immune system.

The manufacturer, Hill’s Pet Nutrition, has a mission to help enrich and lengthen the special relationships between people and their pets. We appreciate that this dog food is made with natural ingredients and never contains artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or chicken by-product meal.

Overall, we believe that Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult 11 Dry Dog Food is a great investment for small-breed dogs who are 11 years or older.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best dog food for bad teeth, there are a few key features to consider. We recommend taking the following factors into consideration:

Texture

The texture of the dog food is an important factor to consider for dogs with bad teeth. Soft and moist food is easier for dogs to chew and digest. Avoid hard and crunchy kibble, as it can be difficult for dogs with dental problems to break down and may cause further damage to their teeth.

Ingredients

The ingredients in your dog’s food can also play a role in their dental health. Look for foods that contain high-quality proteins and whole food ingredients. Avoid foods that contain fillers, artificial colors, and flavors.

Nutritional Value

It’s important to choose a dog food that provides your pet with all the necessary nutrients. Look for foods that are high in protein, fiber, and vitamins. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the specific nutritional needs of your dog.

Dental Benefits

Some dog foods are specifically formulated to promote dental health. These foods may contain ingredients such as enzymes, antioxidants, and special fibers that help to clean teeth and prevent plaque buildup. Look for foods that have been approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) for their dental benefits.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best dog food for your pet’s dental health. Remember to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of food are recommended for dogs with dental issues?

We recommend soft dry dog food that is easy to chew and does not require much effort from your dog’s teeth. Wet food can also be a good option, as it is easier to chew and can help keep your dog’s mouth hydrated. Additionally, foods that are high in protein and low in carbohydrates can help reduce the buildup of plaque and tartar.

How does soft dry dog food benefit dogs with poor dental health?

Soft dry dog food is easier to chew and can help reduce the strain on your dog’s teeth. It is also less likely to get stuck in between your dog’s teeth, reducing the risk of plaque and tartar buildup. Additionally, soft dry dog food can help keep your dog’s mouth hydrated, which can promote healthy gums.

Are there specific dog food brands that cater to dogs with gum disease?

Yes, there are several dog food brands that offer products specifically designed to promote dental health. These brands typically offer soft dry food that is easy to chew and contains ingredients that can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Some examples of these brands include Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Purina Pro Plan.

What homemade diets can support the dental care of dogs?

Homemade diets can be a good option for dogs with dental issues, as they allow you to control the ingredients and texture of your dog’s food. Some homemade diets that can support the dental care of dogs include cooked vegetables, mashed sweet potatoes, and soft-cooked meats. However, it is important to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

Is there a difference in nutritional value between soft and hard dog food for dogs with bad teeth?

There may be some differences in nutritional value between soft and hard dog food, but this ultimately depends on the specific brand and type of food. It is important to choose a dog food that meets your dog’s nutritional needs, regardless of its texture.

How can diet help prevent further dental deterioration in dogs?

Diet can play a significant role in preventing further dental deterioration in dogs. Feeding your dog a diet that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates can help reduce the buildup of plaque and tartar. Additionally, offering your dog soft, easy-to-chew food can help reduce the strain on their teeth. It is important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your dog’s specific needs.