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No one wants to turn away from their dog’s loving kisses, but bad breath can make it difficult to enjoy those sweet moments. Dog breath fresheners offer an easy and effective way to combat unpleasant odors while supporting your pup’s dental health. Since dogs can’t brush their own teeth, it’s up to us to keep their mouths clean and fresh.
Poor dental hygiene can lead to plaque buildup, gum disease, and even serious health issues if left untreated. That’s why incorporating breath-freshening solutions like water additives, sprays, and dental chews into your dog’s routine can help reduce bacteria and prevent bad breath at the source. Of course, regular vet checkups and brushing remain the gold standard for good oral health, but fresheners can provide extra support between cleanings.
If your dog’s breath needs a little help, we’ve gathered some of the best dog breath fresheners to keep those kisses fresh and enjoyable!
At A Glance: Best Dog Breath Fresheners
Now, let’s take a closer look at each featured product, comparing the pros and cons.
Arm & Hammer for Fresh Breath Dental Spray
Pets Are Kids Too Premium Pet Dental Spray
Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Water Additives for Dogs
GREENIES Original Dental Chews for Dogs
Vetality Breath Freshener For Dogs
Milk-Bone Dog Treats Fresh Breath Brushing Chews
Ark Naturals Gray Muzzle Brushless Toothpaste
BARK Bright Dental Sticks for Medium Dogs Chews
Purina DentaLife Oral Care Adult Dog Chew Treats
Oxyfresh Premium Pet Dental Care Solution
Minties VetIQ Dog Dental Bone Treats
iHeartDogs Brushy Sticks Dental Treats
1. Arm & Hammer for Fresh Breath Dental Spray – Best for All Types of Dogs
Dental sprays are easy to use and provide instant results. Arm & Hammer is an excellent dental spray for fresh pet breath. It helps your dog’s teeth stay shiny and healthy while eliminating bad breath. The product is safe for daily use, as it contains natural ingredients like baking soda.
This product is formulated with safe ingredients that work as dog breath fresheners to fight and reduce tartar buildup and whiten your dog’s teeth. To use this product, spray it directly onto your dog’s teeth and gums. The effect is instantaneous, and you will notice a significant improvement in the smell of their breath.
Key Features:
Formulated with natural ingredients
Infused with baking soda
Suitable for all dogs
Its herbs help soothe sensitive and inflamed gums
In A Nutshell:
This spray is a safe, convenient option for dogs of all ages and breeds. However, it can be difficult to clean large dogs’ teeth with this small spray.
Pros
Gentle and effective
Uses baking soda as a primary ingredient
Eliminates odor and keeps teeth healthy
Environment-friendly
Cons
Some dogs may not like the taste
The spray bottle may not work well
Related: Tips & Tricks for Managing That Funky Dog Smell
2. Pets Are Kids Too Premium Pet Dental Spray – Most Natural Ingredients
With Pets Are Kids Too Premium Pet Tooth Spray, you can help support your pet’s dental health and freshen their breath. This highly effective, great-tasting spray contains natural ingredients with antiseptic properties that don’t just cover up bad smells. Instead, they work at the enzymatic level to help eliminate the root cause of bad breath: plaque, tartar, and bacteria.
To use, you can spray it directly into the mouth daily or add it to a bowl of water to give your furry friend sweet-smelling, kissable breath and healthier teeth and gums. This alcohol-free dog deodorant does not contain anything that could upset the stomach, and it’s grain-free for dogs with allergies. The spray destroys plaque and tartar and reduces the risk of oral diseases for pets by applying its antiseptic properties.
Key Features:
Eliminates bad breath, gum diseases, and tartar
All-natural ingredients
Improves dental and gut health
Alcohol-free with non-toxic ingredients
In A Nutshell:
This breath freshener improves dental and gut health with natural ingredients, but some dog parents dislike it because the bottle can be difficult to spray.
Pros
100% hypoallergenic
Non-Toxic
Alcohol-free
Eliminates plaque and tartar
Easy to use
Cons
Some dogs don’t like its flavor
3. Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Water Additives for Dogs – Easiest to Use
Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Liquid is an additive that can easily be mixed into a bowl of water. It’s a popular alternative to sprays and tooth brushing because you don’t have to hold your dog’s mouth open to use it.
This product is made with ingredients clinically proven to reduce plaque that harbors bacteria. This helps pet parents establish a daily routine of proper dental care that can prolong pets’ lives. The water additive gently controls plaque and tartar while freshening breath.
The solution is made with patented Denta-C, which is a blend of scientifically formulated ingredients such as vitamin C and sodium hexametaphosphate, which have been shown to reduce plaque, promote healthy teeth and gums, and leave dogs with clean breath.
Key Features:
Controls plaque and tartar buildup
Easy-to-use liquid formula
Made in the USA
Stores at room temperature
In A Nutshell:
This best dog breath freshener is made with Denta-C, which is scientifically proven to reduce plaque that harbors bacteria. Even though it’s easy to use, it’s not a substitute for brushing or professional cleaning, but it’s helpful between cleanings.
Pros
Helps maintain a clean, healthy mouth
Easy to use by adding to a water bowl
Suitable for all types of dogs
Uses scientifically-formulated ingredients
Cons
May make dogs sick in high doses
Want to add vitamins to your dog’s diet? Check out the Best Dog Multivitamin Products
4. GREENIES Original Dental Chews for Dogs – Best Texture
Greenies is one of the leading names in canine dental products. The company makes chews for pets of all sizes. Five sizes are available to appeal to dogs of all breeds, but the Greenies Original Chews for Large Dogs are the most popular.
One Greenies dental treat a day is enough to give your happy dog clean teeth and fresh breath. Many dogs can’t wait to sink their teeth into these delicious, original-tasting dog chews. The texture will scrape off plaque as they chew. These chews are also designed with a unique shape to maximize cleaning efficiency.
When fed daily, Greenies dental chews for dogs are scientifically proven to reduce plaque and tartar buildup, freshen breath, and maintain healthy gums. They have been awarded the Veterinary Oral Health Acceptance Council (VOHC) for plaque and tartar control.
Key Features:
Clinically proven to reduce plaque and tartar buildup, freshen breath, and maintain healthy gums when fed daily
Unique shape designed to maximize cleaning effectiveness
VOHC seal of acceptance for plaque and tartar control
Available in 5 sizes to suit different breeds
In A Nutshell:
This dog breath freshener is designed to support teeth and jaw development in the convenient form of a treat. Yet, one downside is that these chews can be a bit pricey if you use them daily as recommended.
Pros
Made from highly digestible ingredients
Convenient
Flexible texture
Appealing flavor
Come in a variety of sizes
Cons
Expensive
5. Vetality Breath Freshener For Dogs – Best Flavored Freshener
Vetality’s Brushless Oral Gel is the latest advancement in pet oral care. When applied, it bonds to your pet’s gums and provides a whole week of dental support. The way to use this product is simple: twist the treat like a deodorant capsule, have your dog lick the delicious treat, and let the product freshen their breath and clean their teeth.
This vet-approved breath freshener will target plaque and tartar to eliminate all sources of foul odors and keep them from returning. It can also whiten teeth to enhance your pup’s beautiful smile. If you’re looking for something to clean your dog’s gums, this versatile breath freshener will accomplish that, too!
No brushing means no mess. Plus, your dog will likely beg for this flavorful product every morning.
Key Features:
ProLong Technology cleans pets’ teeth for a whole week
Fights bad breath, plaque, and tartar
Whitens and brightens teeth
No brushing needed
Delicious chicken flavor pets love
In A Nutshell:
This unique product helps freshen breath and clean teeth when your dog licks it. The flavor is appealing to most pups. Yet, the only downside is that it doesn’t work as quickly as some of the other products.
Pros
Promotes healthy gums
Approved by vets
Tasty and effective oral gel
Easy to use
Not messy
Cons
Doesn’t freshen breath immediately
6. Milk-Bone Dog Treats Fresh Breath Brushing Chews – Most Affordable Freshener
You can conveniently help your dog fight bad breath with Milk-Bone Fresh Breath Brushing Chews. The patented design supports healthy teeth and gums because of the ridges that work like bristles to help remove tartar and plaque as your pup chews.
These treats are made without artificial flavors and have a fresh mint taste derived from real mint. They’re fortified with calcium to help support strong teeth and bones. They also have the Veterinary Oral Health Council’s (VOHC) accepted seal for tartar control. These treats, which have different sizes for different breeds, are effective in eliminating bad breath, thanks to their fresh flavor.
Key Features:
Has the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) accepted seal
The ridges freshen breath and encourage healthy gums
Made without artificial flavors
Helps fight against plaque and tartar
Has a natural mint flavor
In A Nutshell:
These naturally flavored treats are a great short-term method for fighting bad breath and dental diseases. However, the taste may be unappealing for some dogs.
Pros
Comes in a resealable bag
Has a VOHC-accepted seal
Combats lousy breath with mint
Fortified with calcium for strong teeth
Affordable
Made in the USA
Cons
Some dogs don’t like the flavor
7. Ark Naturals Gray Muzzle Brushless Toothpaste – Best for Senior Dogs
No dog is immune to bad breath, so these treats can help. These curved dog breath fresheners are specially designed for older dogs, specifically five years or older. The chews reduce plaque and tartar as your dog gnaws on their textured surface. They also contain DHA to support their cognitive health and calcium for their teeth and bones.
The Ark Naturals Gray Muzzle Brushless Senior Dog Dental Treatments are made in the USA with all-natural cinnamon, spearmint, and clove. Together, these ingredients help freshen breath. Depending on your dog’s breed, there are small or large chews.
These vet-recommended chews are gluten-free, easy to digest, and soft, making them especially suitable for older dogs with sensitive teeth. These treats are a way to maintain your pup’s dental health between cleanings.
Key Features:
Helps fight bacteria and freshens breath
No artificial colors or flavors
Contains spearmint to freshen the breath
Contains DHA, calcium, and prebiotics to support your puppy’s overall health
Softer for senior dogs
In A Nutshell:
The abrasive, crispy texture helps beat plaque and tartar with natural ingredients like alfalfa, cinnamon, spearmint, and clove. However, these chews are harder than described, so seniors missing teeth may not be able to chew them.
Pros
Designed for senior dogs
The curved design keeps dogs occupied for a while
Freshens breath
Promotes healthy gums
Convenient
Approved by vets
Cons
Might be too hard for some senior dogs
8. BARK Bright Dental Sticks for Medium Dogs Chews – Best Chicken-Flavored
Cleaning your dog’s teeth can be as easy as a few chews. These dental sticks are designed to be used with BARK Bright Dog Toothpaste (sold separately), and they are a simple and effective way to help you deal with your dog’s bad breath. The toothpaste helps clean your dog’s teeth further as they chew, and no brushing is necessary.
The chews are made with real chicken to give them a flavor most dogs will love. BARK Bright Dog Dental Chews break up problematic residue on your dog’s teeth as they chew. These treats will become a healthy daily routine for your pup. The pack comes with 30 chews that are ideal for dogs between 20 and 50 pounds.
Key Features:
Made in the USA
Made with real chicken
No grain, corn, or soy
No artificial colors or flavors
Works with dog toothpaste
In A Nutshell:
These dental sticks are safe to give every day. They can be used with triple enzyme toothpaste to help clean teeth and freshen breath. However, the toothpaste is sold separately.
Pros
All ingredients are sourced in the U.S. and Finland
Convenient
Removes food residue as your dog chews
Lactose-free and grain-free
Safe for puppies that have their permanent teeth
Sticks can be broken in half for smaller dogs
Cons
For full effect, you’ll need to buy toothpaste separately
9. Purina DentaLife Oral Care Adult Dog Chew Treats – Best Long-Lasting Chews
Purina DentaLife Oral Care Mini Adult Dog Chews have everything you could want if you’re looking for the best breath fresheners for small dogs. Each bite’s unique design and texture ensures that chewing takes them up to the gumline to fight bad breath at the source. These treats are made in the USA and forgo artificial flavors. Instead, they’re made with an all-natural blend that highlights honey and spirulina.
DentaLife makes dogs chew to clean even hard-to-reach areas at the back of the mouth. By doing so, this product can provide excellent cleaning that has been scientifically proven to reduce tartar formation. Many dogs can’t resist these chews because of their healthy ingredients and delicious chicken flavoring. These treats are an easy, convenient way to give your pup fresh breath and help them live longer. The packages come with 58 to 90 chews, so it will take your pup a while to go through them all.
Key Features:
Innovative design with a chewy, porous texture
No artificial flavors or colors
Proudly produced in USA facilities
Ideal for small (5-20 lbs.) adult dogs
In A Nutshell:
Dog parents like that these chews have a distinct chicken flavor that many dogs find pleasing. However, this product is only recommended for small dogs.
Pros
Made in USA facilities
Convenient
Fights against plaque and tartar
Chicken-flavored
Made from natural ingredients
Freshens breath long-term
Cons
Only for small dogs (5-20 lbs.)
10. Oxyfresh Premium Pet Dental Care Solution – Best Brush-Free Freshener
The OxyFresh Oral Care Additive is a fast-acting water additive formulated to fight plaque, support healthy gums, and provide the freshest breath possible. A key feature is that it’s both tasteless and odorless, so your dog won’t even notice if you add it to their regular water. If your dog can easily detect other water additives and doesn’t respond well to them, you may find success with this one.
By age three, 70% of cats and 80% of dogs have periodontal disease, which can take years off an animal’s life. Oxyfresh has been developed with a patented blend of Oxygene® and zinc. It cleans teeth and gums safely and effectively, freshens bad breath, and is suitable for all animals, including dogs and cats. Oxyfresh, a non-toxic water additive, is a convenient way to take care of your dog’s dental health.
Key Features:
Made in the USA
No alcohol, dyes, or artificial flavors
Freshens bad breath
Promotes healthy gums
Fights plaque and tartar
In A Nutshell:
This product gets to the root cause of bad breath and has natural properties that fight plaque and control tartar, so it’s one of the easiest ways to provide oral hygiene care. However, it has a slight sodium content, which could cause reactions in some dogs.
Pros
Cleans without brushing
Easy to use
It’s tasteless and odorless
Free of artificial flavors, dyes, and alcohol
Veterinarian-recommended
Cons
It is slightly high in sodium
11. Minties VetIQ Dog Dental Bone Treats – Easiest to Digest
As the name suggests, Minties Dog Dental Bone Treats have an excellent minty flavor to freshen your dog’s breath. The bones include natural ingredients like alfalfa, parsley, fennel, dill, and mint. The ingredients make the chews taste more pleasant for dogs, and it will make their kisses more enjoyable for you.
Of course, it’s not just the fresh scent. Chewing on these foods will allow your dog to actively scrub their teeth to remove plaque and keep tartar in check. These products are also free of wheat, corn, gluten, and soy, making them great for nutritionally sensitive dogs. They have a unique texture that scrapes off plaque and tartar as your dog chews on them.
Key Features:
Minties for dogs are veterinarian-grade dental treats
Includes natural breath-freshening ingredients
Uses a Triple Action Formula that helps give your dog a healthy mouth and kissable fresh breath
Easily digestible and wheat-free
In A Nutshell:
These chews smell fresh, and they’re easy for dogs to digest. The unique texture helps keep teeth and gums clean as your pup chews. The one downside is that older dogs may have trouble chewing the treats.
Pros
Veterinarian-recommended
Removes plaque and tartar
Easy to digest
Made with natural ingredients
Ideal alternative for toothbrush
Cons
May be difficult for senior dogs to chew
12. iHeartDogs Brushy Sticks Dental Treats – Most Convenient
iHeartDogs Brushy Sticks are chewable treats that help clean your pup’s teeth as they eat them. These dog breath fresheners are chicken-flavored so most dogs won’t be able to resist the taste. They’re also grain-free to cater to dogs with allergies. The chews include parsley to fight bad breath germs and calcium to support bone development.
When your dog chews on these, the treats can clean teeth and gums, freshen breath, and reduce tartar build-up. The texture of the treats helps scrape off the tartar while also massaging the gums. Your dog will think it’s enjoying a regular treat without realizing that it’s benefiting its dental hygiene. These chews come in either mini or large sizes, and every bag purchased donates seven healthy meals to shelter dogs.
Key Features:
Convenient sticks that taste like chicken chews
Texture scrapes off tartar and massages gums
Parsley helps freshen breath
Different sizes for different breeds
Uses chicken, parsley, and calcium for a health boost
In A Nutshell:
These chicken-flavored sticks seem like an everyday treat for dogs, but they will freshen your dog’s breath and clean their teeth as they’re chewing. However, dogs who don’t like to chew on treats might find them uninteresting.
Pros
Convenient
Chicken-flavored
Cleans teeth, gums, and mouths
Reduces tartar buildup
Comes in two sizes
Donates meals to shelter animals
Cons
May be difficult for older dogs to chew
Buying Guide: How to Choose The Best Dog Breath Freshener?
With so many dog breath fresheners, how do you choose the best one for your dog? Before you decide where to spend your hard-earned money, there are some essential things to consider, such as the following.
Ingredients
Be sure to check what each product contains. If all ingredients are natural, they’ll be safer for your dog’s health. If your dog has any allergies or sensitivities, check to make sure those items aren’t included. You can also check the reviews to make sure the ingredients didn’t cause reactions for other dogs. Steer clear of toxic ingredients like xylitol.
Size of Your Dog
This may not matter if you’re opting for a spray or water additive, but if you’re buying chews, make sure they’re suitable for your dog’s size. For example, a large, hard chew may be too much for a puppy or small dog with missing teeth. Also, a chew designed for small breeds may become a choking hazard for large dogs.
Of course, many brands offer chews in various sizes, so you can choose a bigger or smaller one depending on your pup’s weight.
Consider Treats with the VOHC Seal
The VOHC seal comes from the Veterinary Oral Health Council, and products with this seal have been recognized for helping minimize plaque and tartar on pets’ teeth. Some companies will also display an NASC seal of quality, meaning the supplement meets certain quality and labeling standards. Others may just say “vet-recommended,” which is still a sign of good quality.
Keep Your Dog’s Breath Fresh and Their Smile Healthy
A healthy mouth means a happy dog, and fresh breath is just one of the many benefits of good dental care. While regular brushing is the most effective way to maintain oral hygiene, breath fresheners like water additives, chews, and sprays can make a big difference in keeping bad breath at bay.
If your dog’s breath suddenly worsens or becomes unbearable, it could signal an underlying health issue, so always consult your veterinarian if you notice a persistent odor. By taking a proactive approach to your pup’s dental health, you can enjoy fresher kisses and ensure their teeth and gums stay strong for years to come!
iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
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