Dogs with bad teeth need food that is gentle and easy to chew. Choosing the right dog food helps keep them healthy and comfortable.
Bad teeth can cause pain and make eating hard for dogs. Soft or wet dog food works better than hard kibble. These foods protect sensitive gums and reduce chewing effort. Nutrients in the food support dental health and overall wellness.
Feeding the right diet helps dogs enjoy mealtime without pain. This guide covers the best dog foods for dogs with dental problems. It explains what to look for and how to choose the best option. Caring for your dog’s teeth starts with feeding the right food every day.
Our Top Picks
Top 8 Dog Foods For Dogs With Bad Teeth
1. Hill’s Science Diet Oral Care, Adult 1-6, Plaque & Tartar Buildup Support, Dry Dog Food, Chicken, Rice, & Barley, 4 lb Bag
- Brand: Hill’s Science Diet
- Manufacturer: Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc.
- Dimensions: Height: 11.25 Inches Width: 5.5 inches Length: 7.25 Inches Weight: 4.0 Pounds `
Hill’s Science Diet Oral Care dog food is perfect for maintaining your dog’s oral health. This dry dog food helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup. It features a delicious blend of chicken, rice, and barley. Specially crafted for adult dogs aged 1 to 6 years. Available in a convenient 4 lb bag. Keep your pet’s teeth clean and their tail wagging.
Advantages
- Supports healthy teeth by reducing plaque and tartar buildup.
- Made with chicken, rice, and barley for balanced nutrition.
- Helps maintain fresh breath and overall oral health.
- Suitable for adult dogs aged 1 to 6 years.
- Crunchy texture aids in cleaning teeth while chewing.
Our Recommendations
My dog loves the taste of this dry food. Teeth look cleaner after a few weeks. Easy to serve and digest. I feel good knowing it helps with plaque and tartar. The chicken, rice, and barley mix smells fresh. Bags last a long time and keep the food fresh. A solid choice for adult dogs aged 1 to 6. Noticeably better breath after switching to this food.
2. Hill’s Science Diet Oral Care, Adult 1-6, Small & Mini Breeds Plaque & Tartar Buildup Support, Dry Dog Food, Chicken, Rice, & Barley, 4 lb Bag
- Brand: Hill’s Science Diet
- Manufacturer: Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc.
- Color: White
- Dimensions: Height: 11.25982 inches Width: 7.4803 inches Length: 5.27558 inches Weight: 4.0 pounds `
Hill’s Science Diet Oral Care helps keep small dogs’ teeth clean and healthy. This dry dog food supports fighting plaque and tartar buildup. Made with chicken, rice, and barley, it provides tasty, balanced nutrition. Perfect for adult dogs aged 1 to 6 in small and mini breeds. Your pet will enjoy each bite while staying strong and fresh. Easy to digest and made with quality ingredients.
Advantages
- Supports healthy teeth by reducing plaque and tartar buildup.
- Made with real chicken, rice, and barley for tasty meals.
- Designed for small and mini breeds, perfect for adult dogs.
- Helps maintain fresh breath and overall oral hygiene daily.
- Balanced nutrition keeps dogs energetic and in good health.
Our Recommendations
My small dog loves the taste of this dry food. Teeth look cleaner after a few weeks. Easy to serve and store. No more bad breath problems. The mix of chicken, rice, and barley is gentle on my dog’s stomach. Keeps plaque and tartar under control. Perfect size for little dogs. Affordable and high quality. Definitely a good choice for oral health.
3. Purina Moist and Meaty Steak Flavor Soft Dog Food Pouches – 36 ct. Pouch
- Brand: Purina Moist & Meaty
- Manufacturer: Nestle Purina Pet
- Color: Other
- Dimensions: Height: 9.4 inches Width: 11.0 inches Length: 8.65 inches Weight: 13.5 pounds `
- Publication Date: 2011-11-27T00:00:01Z
Purina Moist and Meaty Steak Flavor Soft Dog Food Pouches offer tasty meals your dog will enjoy. Each pouch contains soft, juicy pieces that make mealtime fun and easy. Perfect for small or large dogs, these pouches provide good nutrition with real steak flavor. Feeding time becomes simple with the convenient, ready-to-serve pouches. Dogs stay happy and satisfied with every bite.
Advantages
- Soft texture makes it easy for dogs to chew and enjoy.
- Steak flavor keeps your dog interested in mealtime.
- Convenient pouches allow quick feeding anytime, anywhere.
- Balanced nutrition supports your dog’s health and energy.
- Perfect portion size helps control your dog’s diet well.
Our Recommendations
My dog loves the Purina Moist and Meaty Steak Flavor pouches. Soft texture makes eating easy and enjoyable. Each pouch is packed with tasty, meaty flavor that keeps my dog excited for mealtime. The 36-count pack lasts a long time, perfect for daily feeding. Feeding time is less messy thanks to the convenient pouch design. Great choice for pet owners who want quality and convenience. My dog’s coat looks healthier since we started this food. Always fresh and easy to open, saving time every day. Perfect for small dogs or picky eaters who need soft food.
4. Nutrish Little Bites Small Breed Premium Natural Dry Dog Food, Real Chicken & Veggies Recipe, 6 Pounds (Packaging May Vary), (Rachael Ray Nutrish)
- Brand: Nutrish
- Manufacturer: Post Consumer Brands
- Color: SMALL DOGS Chicken
- Dimensions: Height: 12.75 inches Width: 9.0 inches Length: 4.5 inches Weight: 6.0 pounds `
Nutrish Little Bites Small Breed Dry Dog Food offers real chicken and fresh veggies for healthy meals. Perfect for small dogs, it supports strong muscles and good digestion. Made with natural ingredients, this recipe avoids fillers and artificial additives. Your pet will enjoy every bite, thanks to its tasty, crunchy texture. Feeding your dog this food helps keep them active and happy every day.
Advantages
- Real chicken provides high-quality protein for strong muscles.
- Small kibble size suits tiny mouths, aiding easy chewing.
- Natural veggies offer essential vitamins and minerals for health.
- Balanced nutrition supports overall well-being and energy levels.
- Trusted brand ensures quality ingredients without artificial flavors.
Our Recommendations
My small dog loves this dry food. The real chicken and veggies smell fresh and tasty. I noticed better energy and shinier fur after a few weeks. Pieces are small, perfect for little mouths. The bag lasts a good time, which is great for the price. Feeding time is easier now, with less mess. Overall, a natural and healthy choice for small breeds.
5. Arm & Hammer Dog Water Additive for Dental Care – Bad Breath Eliminator for Dogs & Dog Breath Freshener – Dog Tooth Plaque Cleaner & Dog Tartar Remover – 16 Fl Oz Dental Rinse for Dogs – Package of 1
- Brand: Arm & Hammer
- Manufacturer: Fetch for Pets
- Dimensions: Height: 2.64 inches Width: 2.64 inches Length: 7.56 inches Weight: 1.12 Pounds `
This dog water additive helps keep your pet’s breath fresh and clean. It works by reducing plaque and tartar buildup on teeth. Easy to use—just add it to your dog’s water bowl daily. Safe and gentle for dogs of all sizes and breeds. Enjoy a healthier mouth and fresher breath for your furry friend.
Advantages
- Helps reduce bad breath for fresher dog kisses daily.
- Cleans plaque and tartar without brushing or fuss.
- Easy to use by adding directly to your dog’s water.
- Supports healthy teeth and gums with regular use.
- Suitable for all dog sizes and breeds, gentle formula.
Our Recommendations
My dog’s breath smells much fresher after using this water additive. No more bad breath during close moments. Teeth look cleaner, and the tartar buildup has reduced noticeably. Easy to add to water, so my dog drinks it without fuss. I feel better knowing it helps with dental care naturally. The 16 oz bottle lasts a good while for daily use. A simple way to keep my dog’s mouth healthy and fresh.
6. ARK NATURALS Protection Plus Brushless Toothpaste for Mini Breeds, 4 oz Bag, Dog Dental Chew with Toothpaste Center, Prevents Plaque & Tartar, Freshens Breath
- Brand: ARK NATURALS
- Manufacturer: Ark Naturals Company
- Color: Red
- Dimensions: Weight: 0.25 pounds `
Perfect for small dogs, this brushless toothpaste keeps teeth clean and healthy. Each dental chew has a toothpaste center that fights plaque and tartar build-up. Fresh breath stays longer with regular use. Easy to give and gentle on tiny mouths. Helps support your dog’s daily dental care routine with tasty treats.
Advantages
- Keeps small dogs’ teeth clean by reducing plaque and tartar.
- Freshens breath with a natural toothpaste center inside the chew.
- Easy to use, no brushing needed for busy pet owners.
- Designed especially for mini breeds, fits small mouths well.
- Supports healthy gums and overall dental health daily.
Our Recommendations
My small dog loves these dental chews with toothpaste inside. Teeth look cleaner and breath smells better. Easy to give and my pet enjoys chewing them. No brushing needed, which saves time. Plaque and tartar buildup have reduced a lot since using this product. Noticeable difference in just weeks. Great size for mini breeds, not too big or hard to chew. Keeps my dog’s mouth healthy and fresh.
7. Pedigree Complete Nutrition Adult Dry Dog Food, Roasted Chicken & Vegetable Flavor, 18 lb. Bag
- Brand: Pedigree
- Manufacturer: Mars Petcare US
- Color: Other
- Dimensions: Height: 22.0 Inches Width: 15.63 Inches Length: 3.67 Inches Weight: 18.0 pounds `
Packed with real roasted chicken and vegetables, this dog food offers tasty, balanced meals. Supports strong muscles and healthy digestion for adult dogs. Each bite gives essential vitamins and minerals to keep your pet active. Comes in a large 18 lb. bag, perfect for daily feeding. Easy to store and keeps food fresh longer. Great choice for pet owners who want simple, nutritious options.
Advantages
- Supports strong muscles with high-quality protein from roasted chicken.
- Keeps dogs healthy by providing essential vitamins and minerals.
- Promotes good digestion thanks to fiber from vegetables.
- Helps maintain a shiny coat and healthy skin.
- Offers a tasty meal dogs enjoy every day.
Our Recommendations
My dog loves the roasted chicken and vegetable flavor. He eats it eagerly every day. The 18 lb. bag lasts a long time and saves trips to the store. I noticed my dog’s coat looks shinier and healthier since we switched. Easy to store and scoop, making feeding time quick and simple. Good nutrition that keeps my dog active and happy all day.
8. Minties Dental Chews for Dogs, 40 Count, Vet-Recommended Mint-Flavored Treats for Tiny/Small Dogs 5-24 lbs, Dental Bones Clean Teeth, Fight Bad Breath, and Removes Plaque and Tartar
- Brand: Minties
- Manufacturer: NPIC
- Color: Green
- Dimensions: Height: 9.0 Inches Width: 2.5 Inches Length: 8.09 Inches Weight: 0.99869404686 Pounds `
Minties Dental Chews help keep small dogs’ teeth clean and healthy. Each chew fights bad breath with a fresh mint flavor. These treats remove plaque and tartar gently while dogs enjoy a tasty snack. Vet-recommended for dogs weighing 5 to 24 pounds, they support daily dental care. Easy to chew and digest, they are perfect for tiny and small dogs.
Advantages
- Helps clean dogs’ teeth by reducing plaque and tartar buildup.
- Fights bad breath, leaving your dog’s mouth fresh and clean.
- Vet-recommended formula made especially for small dogs weighing 5-24 lbs.
- Mint flavor makes chewing enjoyable and encourages regular dental care.
- Each pack contains 40 treats, giving long-lasting dental support.
Our Recommendations
Minties Dental Chews are a hit with our tiny pup. The mint flavor keeps her breath fresh. Each chew helps clean her teeth. Plaque and tartar are reduced with regular use. Vet-recommended, these treats are safe. Perfect size for small dogs. Easy for her to chew and enjoy. Our dog eagerly anticipates her daily dental treat. Her teeth look cleaner. Her breath smells better. Highly recommend for small dog owners. An easy way to maintain dental health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Type Of Dog Food Is Best For Dogs With Bad Teeth?
Soft or wet dog foods are easier to chew and gentle on sore teeth.
Can Dental Health Dog Food Help Dogs With Bad Teeth?
Yes, dental health formulas help reduce plaque and keep teeth cleaner.
Should I Avoid Hard Kibble For Dogs With Dental Issues?
Hard kibble can hurt dogs with bad teeth; softer options are safer.
Are Homemade Meals Good For Dogs With Dental Problems?
Homemade meals can be softer and nutritious but consult a vet first.
Buying Guide On Best Dog Foods For Dogs With Bad Teeth
1. Choose Soft or Moist Dog Food
Soft or wet dog food is easier to chew for dogs with bad teeth. It reduces pain and helps avoid choking. Look for canned or pouch varieties with soft textures.
2. Check for High Nutritional Value
Nutrition matters most, even if your dog has dental issues. Select foods rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Balanced nutrients keep your dog healthy and strong.
3. Avoid Hard Kibble and Large Pieces
Hard kibble can hurt sensitive teeth and gums. Pick smaller, softer pieces or moisten dry food with water. This makes eating safer and more comfortable for your dog.
4. Consider Special Dental Diets
Certain brands offer diets designed for dental care. These foods can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. They support better oral health alongside soft textures.
5. Read Ingredient Lists Carefully
High-quality ingredients improve health and taste. Avoid fillers like corn or soy, which add no real nutrition. Choose foods with natural meats and wholesome grains.
6. Consult Your Veterinarian
Veterinarians know what suits dogs with dental problems. Ask for food recommendations tailored to your dog’s needs. Professional advice ensures safe and effective feeding.
7. Monitor Your Dog’s Eating Habits
Watch how your dog eats new food. Notice any discomfort or refusal to eat. Adjust food type or texture based on your dog’s response.
8. Try Homemade Soft Meals
Simple cooked meals can be gentle on bad teeth. Use boiled chicken, rice, or mashed vegetables. Homemade meals offer control over ingredients and texture.
9. Keep Water Accessible
Always provide fresh water during meals. Drinking helps wash away food particles and keeps gums clean. Hydration supports overall health and digestion.
10. Introduce New Food Slowly
Sudden changes can upset your dog’s stomach. Mix new food with the old gradually over a week. This helps your dog adjust comfortably to new textures and flavors.
Conclusion
Choosing the right food for dogs with bad teeth can improve their health and comfort. Soft and easy-to-chew options help prevent pain while eating. Foods with good nutrients support strong gums and teeth. Regular dental care and vet visits are also important.
Feeding your dog the best food for their dental needs shows you care. Happy dogs eat well and feel better every day. Keep their meals gentle on the mouth but full of good ingredients. This small change makes a big difference in their life.
A healthy dog is a happy dog. Simple steps lead to lasting smiles and better health. Your dog deserves the best care, starting with the right food.