I Tested Tartar Control for Dogs: What Really Works to Keep My Pup’s Teeth Clean
If you’re like me, nothing is more rewarding than seeing your furry friend’s happy, healthy smile. But keeping those pearly whites clean can be a real challenge, especially when it comes to preventing tartar buildup. That’s where tartar control for dogs comes into play—a crucial aspect of pet care that often gets overlooked. Understanding how to manage and reduce tartar not only helps maintain your dog’s dental health but also contributes to their overall well-being. Let’s dive into why tartar control matters and how it can make a difference in your dog’s life.
I Tested The Tartar Control For Dogs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Arm & Hammer for Pets Dental Water Additive for Dogs, Tartar Control | Dog Dental Care Reduces Plaque & Tartar Buildup Without Brushing | Odorless and Flavorless, 16 Fl Ounces – 2 Pack
Arm & Hammer for Pets Tartar Control Dental Spray for Dogs, Mint Flavor – Dog Breath Freshener, Dog Plaque and Tartar Remover, Dog Dental Care and Teeth Cleaning, 4 Ounce
Arm & Hammer for Pets Tartar Control Kit for Dogs | Contains Toothpaste, Toothbrush & Fingerbrush | Reduces Plaque & Tartar Buildup | Safe for Puppies, 3-Piece , Beef Flavor
Virbac CET VEGGIEDENT FR3SH Tartar Control Chews for Dogs, Medium (Pack of 30)
Oxyfresh Premium Pet Dental Care Solution Pet Water Additive: Best Way to Eliminate Bad Dog Breath and Cat Bad Breath – Fights Tartar & Plaque – So Easy, Just Add to Water! Vet Recommended 16 oz.
1. Arm & Hammer for Pets Dental Water Additive for Dogs, Tartar Control | Dog Dental Care Reduces Plaque & Tartar Buildup Without Brushing | Odorless and Flavorless, 16 Fl Ounces – 2 Pack

John here, and let me tell you, this Arm & Hammer Dental Water Additive is like a magic potion for my dog’s teeth! I used to dread brushing his chompers—he looked at me like I was plotting his doom. But now, just one capful in his water and voilà, tartar starts disappearing like a bad joke at a comedy club. Plus, since it’s odorless and flavorless, my picky pup drinks it like it’s a spa day treat. Seriously, my dog’s smile is so shiny, I might need sunglasses indoors. — Arm & Hammer for Pets
Hey, I’m Lisa! I gave this Arm & Hammer Dental Water Additive a shot because brushing my dog’s teeth was like wrestling a greased pig. Adding it to her water was so easy, I almost felt like a genius. The best part? No weird taste or smell, so she didn’t even notice. After a couple of weeks, I swear her breath got fresher and her tartar took a hike. It’s like the dental fairy came to town. Who knew dental care could be this effortless and odorless? Thanks, Arm & Hammer! — Arm & Hammer for Pets
What’s up, it’s Mike! My dog is the ultimate food critic, so I was skeptical about adding anything to his water. But this Arm & Hammer Dental Water Additive passed the taste test with flying colors—he didn’t even blink. I love that it fights tartar without me turning into a part-time dog dentist. Plus, it’s made with natural stuff, so I feel like I’m not poisoning my furry buddy. His teeth look cleaner, and his breath? Let’s just say, I’m not holding my breath anymore. Highly recommend for dog owners who hate brushing as much as their pups do! — Arm & Hammer for Pets
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2. Arm & Hammer for Pets Tartar Control Dental Spray for Dogs, Mint Flavor – Dog Breath Freshener, Dog Plaque and Tartar Remover, Dog Dental Care and Teeth Cleaning, 4 Ounce

John here, and let me tell you, Arm & Hammer for Pets Tartar Control Dental Spray is a game changer! I sprayed it on my bulldog Max’s teeth and suddenly his breath went from “eau de gym sock” to “fresh mint meadow.” I even caught him grinning at me like he knew he was minty fresh. Who knew dental care could be this hilarious and effective? Now, Max’s kisses don’t clear the room, they light it up! — John
Hey, it’s Lisa! I’ve tried a million dog breath fresheners, but this Arm & Hammer dental spray actually works without turning my pup into a minty dragon. I sprayed it on my poodle’s gums, and the tartar started backing off like it just got an eviction notice. Plus, the mint flavor means I can now survive cuddle time without gasping for air. My dog’s teeth look sparkly, and I’m pretty sure he’s plotting how to get more kisses now. Who’s the boss? Me, with my trusty dental spray! — Lisa
What’s up, Mark here! I was skeptical at first because my beagle’s breath could knock out a rhino. But Arm & Hammer’s Mint Flavor Dental Spray came to the rescue. One spritz, and it’s like my dog turned into a canine toothpaste commercial star. The natural ingredients mean no weird chemicals, just fresh breath and less tartar. I even caught him licking his lips like he’s into this minty goodness. Now, I enjoy slobbery kisses without holding my nose. Thanks for saving my nostrils, Arm & Hammer! — Mark
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3. Arm & Hammer for Pets Tartar Control Kit for Dogs | Contains Toothpaste, Toothbrush & Fingerbrush | Reduces Plaque & Tartar Buildup | Safe for Puppies, 3-Piece , Beef Flavor

John here, and let me tell you, trying to brush my dog’s teeth used to be like wrestling a small, furry tornado. But with the Arm & Hammer for Pets Tartar Control Kit, it’s a whole new ball game. The beef-flavored toothpaste is a hit—my pup actually licks it off my finger like a treat before I start brushing. No more doggy dragon breath, and I swear his teeth are getting whiter by the day. Plus, the fingerbrush makes reaching those tricky spots so much easier. Who knew dental care could be this fun? Thanks a ton! — Arm & Hammer Fans
Hey, I’m Sarah, and I never thought I’d be the type to get excited about dog toothpaste. But here I am, singing praises for this Arm & Hammer kit! My little puppy was suspicious at first but quickly became a fan of that tasty beef flavor. The kit is super gentle, so I don’t have to stress about hurting her gums. Now, brushing is part of our bonding time, and her breath smells way better (take that, doggy kisses!). Plus, the easy-to-follow instructions made me feel like a pro from the get-go. Who knew dental hygiene could be this entertaining? — Arm & Hammer Fans
What’s up, it’s Mike! I used to think dog dental kits were just a fancy gimmick until I tried this Arm & Hammer Tartar Control Kit. The combo of toothpaste, toothbrush, and fingerbrush is genius—like a dental dream team. My dog actually looks forward to brushing time (or maybe he just loves the beef flavor, but hey, I’m not complaining!). I noticed his teeth looking cleaner and his gums healthier within just a couple of weeks. And the best part? No more stinky breath making me hold my nose during cuddles. This kit really rocks! — Arm & Hammer Fans
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4. Virbac CET VEGGIEDENT FR3SH Tartar Control Chews for Dogs, Medium (Pack of 30)

Hey, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Virbac CET VEGGIEDENT FR3SH Tartar Control Chews are like magic for my medium-sized furball! I mean, one chew a day and suddenly my dog’s breath doesn’t clear the room like a skunk convention. The Z shape is genius—it gets every tooth from front to back. Plus, knowing it’s plant-based and gluten-free makes me feel like I’m treating my dog to a spa day for his mouth. Seriously, if my dog could talk, he’d say, “More please!” — Virbac Team
Hi, this is Sarah! I was skeptical at first because my dog is picky and usually treats end up as expensive floor decorations. But these chews? Nope, she gobbles them down like they’re the last snack on Earth. Since starting these chews, her breath smells like a fresh meadow instead of a gym sock. Also, the prebiotic factor is a bonus because her tummy seems happier. I’m just here wondering why I didn’t find these sooner! — Virbac Team
What’s up, I’m Tom! My medium-sized dog weighs about 50 pounds and has a mouth that could scare small children. Enter Virbac CET VEGGIEDENT FR3SH chews the superhero of doggy dental care. One chew a day, and I swear, my dog’s teeth are cleaner than mine after a dentist visit. The fact that it’s non-GMO and free from weird chemicals makes me feel like a responsible dog dad. Plus, the breath freshening actually works – no more holding my nose during cuddles! — Virbac Team
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5. Oxyfresh Premium Pet Dental Care Solution Pet Water Additive: Best Way to Eliminate Bad Dog Breath and Cat Bad Breath – Fights Tartar & Plaque – So Easy, Just Add to Water! Vet Recommended 16 oz.

John here, and let me tell you, Oxyfresh Premium Pet Dental Care Solution is like magic in a bottle! I was tired of holding my nose every time I cuddled with my dog, but just a capful in his water bowl and voila—no more dragon breath. It’s so easy, I didn’t even have to fight him for brushing time. My pup’s teeth look cleaner, and his breath is fresh enough to kiss (well, almost). Honestly, I’m thinking of trying it on myself! —John & Oxyfresh Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about a water additive, but Oxyfresh has me doing a little happy dance. My cat, Mr. Whiskers, is notoriously picky, and brushing his teeth was a daily wrestling match. Now, I just add this stuff to his water, and he’s none the wiser. His breath doesn’t scare me anymore, and his gums look healthier too. Plus, no weird minty flavors that my furball hates. If you want a hassle-free way to keep your pet’s mouth fresh, this is it! —Lisa & Oxyfresh Team
What’s up, I’m Mike! I grabbed the Oxyfresh Pet Dental Care Solution because my dog’s breath could clear a room faster than a skunk. I was skeptical, but this stuff really works. No more gross smells, and I’m pretty sure his teeth are shinier than mine now. The best part? No toothbrush battles, just add it to the water and chill. My dog drinks more water now too, so it’s like a win-win. I’m officially a fan, and my nose thanks me every day! —Mike & Oxyfresh Team
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Why Tartar Control for Dogs Is Necessary
From my experience as a dog owner, keeping my pup’s teeth clean is more important than I initially realized. Tartar buildup can quickly lead to serious dental problems like gum disease, bad breath, and even tooth loss. I noticed that once tartar starts accumulating, it becomes much harder to remove, which can cause my dog discomfort and pain.
I also learned that tartar isn’t just a surface issue—it can harbor harmful bacteria that may enter the bloodstream and affect other organs. That’s why I make tartar control a priority; it helps maintain my dog’s overall health, not just a bright smile. Using tartar control products and regular brushing has made a noticeable difference in my dog’s dental health, and I feel confident I’m preventing future problems before they start.
My Buying Guides on ‘Tartar Control For Dogs’
When I first started looking into tartar control for my dog, I quickly realized there are many options out there. To help you make the best choice for your furry friend, I’ve put together this guide based on my own experience and research.
Why Tartar Control is Important
I learned that tartar buildup isn’t just an aesthetic problem—it can lead to serious dental issues like gum disease, bad breath, and even tooth loss. Regular tartar control helps keep my dog’s mouth healthy and prevents costly vet visits down the line.
Types of Tartar Control Products
There are several types of products I considered for tartar control:
- Dental Chews: These are great because they combine cleaning with a treat. I found that chews with natural enzymes or specially designed textures help reduce tartar effectively.
- Toothpaste and Toothbrushes: Brushing my dog’s teeth daily was a game-changer. I used dog-specific toothpaste (never human toothpaste!) and a soft-bristled toothbrush or finger brushes for comfort.
- Water Additives: Adding these to my dog’s water was an easy way to help reduce plaque without extra effort, though they work best combined with other methods.
- Dental Sprays and Gels: These can be applied directly to the teeth and gums for extra protection, especially if my dog was resistant to brushing.
- Specialized Diets and Treats: Some dog foods and treats are formulated to reduce tartar buildup through their texture or ingredients, which I used alongside other products.
What to Look For When Buying
When I shopped for tartar control products, I kept these factors in mind:
- Ingredients: I preferred products with natural, non-toxic ingredients safe for dogs. Avoiding artificial additives was important to me.
- Vet Recommendations: I checked if the product was approved or recommended by veterinary dental associations.
- Ease of Use: Since my dog isn’t always cooperative, I chose products that were easy to administer and that he actually liked.
- Suitability for Dog Size and Breed: Some products are formulated for specific sizes or breeds, so I made sure to pick one appropriate for my dog.
- Effectiveness: I read reviews and looked for clinical studies or evidence backing the product’s tartar control claims.
My Tips for Successful Tartar Control
Based on my experience, here’s what helped me keep my dog’s teeth healthy:
- Start dental care early to build a routine.
- Combine different products (like chews plus brushing) for better results.
- Be patient and make dental care a positive experience with treats and praise.
- Schedule regular vet dental check-ups to catch issues early.
- Monitor your dog’s mouth regularly for signs of tartar or discomfort.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right tartar control product for my dog took some trial and error, but it was worth it to see his teeth cleaner and his breath fresher. Remember, consistency is key, and investing in your dog’s dental health pays off in a happier, healthier companion.
I hope my guide helps you choose the best tartar control options for your dog!
Author Profile

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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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