The Best Dental Treats for Boston Terriers

THE CARE CORNER / DENTAL CARE

Disclaimer: I am not a vet. This article is for informational purposes only. Please consult your veterinarian for professional advice regarding your Boston Terrier’s dental health.

Introduction: Why Dental Treats Matter for Your Boston Terrier

Dental treats are a simple and effective way to support your Boston Terrier’s oral health. They help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, freshen breath, and promote overall dental hygiene. Choosing the right dental treats can make a big difference in preventing dental disease, a common issue in small breeds like the Boston Terrier.

1. What to Look for in Dental Treats

Ingredients that Promote Oral Health

Look for treats that are made with natural, safe ingredients to help clean your dog’s teeth without causing harm.
Ingredients like chitosan, green tea extract, and beef hide can help reduce plaque and tartar.

Texture and Shape

Dental treats should have a rough texture that scrubs the teeth as your dog chews.
Some treats are specifically designed with grooves, nubs, or ridges that help to clean hard-to-reach areas.

Appropriate Size

Always choose treats that are the right size for your Boston Terrier to prevent choking hazards.
Treats should be small and manageable for their size and chewing strength.

2. Top Dental Treats for Boston Terriers

Greenies Original Dental Treats

Best for daily use
Proven to reduce plaque and tartar buildup
Available in different sizes to suit small dogs like Boston Terriers
Vets recommend Greenies for maintaining overall oral health
Link: Greenies Dental Chews – Amazon

Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Oral Hygiene Chews

Best for sensitive teeth
These chews contain enzymes that break down plaque and reduce tartar
Highly recommended by veterinarians
Safe for daily use, especially for Boston Terriers with sensitive gums
Link: Virbac C.E.T. Chews – Chewy

Whimzees Veggie Dental Chews

Best plant-based option
Made with vegetable-based ingredients that are safe and healthy
Effective at cleaning teeth and freshening breath
No artificial colors or flavors
Available in sizes perfect for small breeds like Boston Terriers
Link: Whimzees Veggie Chews – Petco

Pedigree DentaStix

Best budget-friendly option
Designed to clean teeth while promoting healthy gums
Contains special patented X-shape to help clean teeth efficiently
Affordable and widely available
Link: Pedigree DentaStix – Amazon

Milk-Bone Brushing Chews

Best for freshening breath
Helps reduce plaque and tartar
Veterinarian-recommended for maintaining oral health
Available in small sizes for Boston Terriers
Link: Milk-Bone Brushing Chews – Walmart

3. Benefits of Dental Treats for Boston Terriers

Plaque and Tartar Reduction

Regularly consuming dental treats can help break down plaque and tartar, reducing the risk of gum disease.
Dental treats work by scrubbing the teeth and gums, preventing buildup over time.

ReFreshens Breath

Dental treats are designed to neutralize odors, keeping your Boston’s breath fresh and pleasant.
Ingredients like mint or parsley are often included to promote fresh breath.

Supports Gum Health

Regular chewing on dental treats strengthens the gums and helps to prevent infections.
Some dental chews are formulated to promote healthy gums with ingredients like vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids.

Prevents Tooth Decay

Chewing on dental treats can reduce the risk of tooth decay and keep teeth in better shape, which is especially important for smaller breeds like the Boston Terrier.
Boston Terriers are particularly susceptible to crowded teeth, which can trap food and bacteria.

4. When to Give Your Boston Dental Treats

After Meals

Give your Boston a dental treat after meals to help clean their teeth and keep their mouth fresh.

As a Reward

Use dental treats as a reward for good behavior, which will also keep their teeth clean.

On a Regular Schedule

Make dental treats part of your dog’s daily routine for long-term oral health. A consistent routine will help prevent oral problems down the line.

5. How to Safely Introduce Dental Treats

Start Slow

If your Boston hasn’t had dental treats before, introduce them gradually to avoid digestive upset.

Monitor While Chewing

Always supervise your Boston while they’re enjoying their dental treat to prevent choking, especially if they’re new to chews.

Consult Your Vet

Always consult your vet about the best dental treats for your dog, especially if your Boston has any preexisting health conditions.

6. What Chews to Avoid Giving to Your Boston

While dental chews can be a great way to keep your Boston Terrier’s teeth clean, not all chews are safe or beneficial. Some chews can be harmful, leading to dental damage, choking hazards, or digestive issues. Here’s a list of chews to avoid when caring for your Boston Terrier’s dental health:

Bones (Especially Cooked Bones)

Why to Avoid: Cooked bones, such as those from chicken, beef, or lamb, can splinter easily, posing a serious risk of choking or injury to your dog’s mouth, throat, or digestive tract.
Risk: Broken teeth, punctured gums, internal injuries from splinters, and blockage in the intestines.

Antlers

Why to Avoid: While antlers seem like a natural, tough chew, they are too hard for many dogs, especially smaller breeds like the Boston Terrier.
Risk: They can crack or break your dog’s teeth, especially if your dog is an aggressive chewer. This can lead to painful dental injuries that may require veterinary attention.

Hooves

Why to Avoid: Hooves are very hard and can be difficult for your dog to chew properly, which might cause them to crack their teeth or ingest sharp fragments.
Risk: Tooth fractures, digestive issues from swallowed fragments, and potential injuries to the gums and mouth.

Rawhide Chews

Why to Avoid: Rawhide is a controversial chew, and while it’s often marketed as a way to keep teeth clean, it can pose risks.
Risk: Rawhide can cause choking if it becomes soft and breaks into large pieces. It can also cause digestive upset or even a blockage if swallowed in large pieces.

Small Chews or Toys

Why to Avoid: Small chews or toys, particularly those that are smaller than your dog’s mouth, can become a choking hazard.
Risk: Dogs, especially Boston Terriers, may accidentally swallow small chews or toys, which can block the airway or intestines, requiring immediate veterinary intervention.

Chews with Artificial Additives

Why to Avoid: Some dental chews contain artificial colors, preservatives, or sweeteners like xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
Risk: Digestive upset, allergic reactions, or even life-threatening toxicity.

Tennis Balls

Why to Avoid: While tennis balls can be fun for fetch, their abrasive surface can damage teeth, especially if chewed on for long periods.
Risk: Wearing down enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity or breakage.

Excessively Hard Chews (e.g., Nylon Chews)

Why to Avoid: While some nylon chews are marketed as durable and safe, they can be too hard for a Boston Terrier’s teeth, leading to fractures or damage.
Risk: Cracked or broken teeth, especially for dogs with sensitive or weaker teeth.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Dental Treats for Your Boston

Dental treats are a fun and effective way to keep your Boston Terrier’s teeth healthy and their breath fresh. With the right choice of treat, your Boston will enjoy clean teeth, healthy gums, and overall good oral health. Always choose treats that are specifically designed for dogs, and consult your vet if you have any questions about your dog’s dental care routine.

For more information on dog dental care, visit American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) or the American Kennel Club (AKC) for trusted advice.

AKC – Dog dental care

More information about how to care for your Boston Terrier’s teeth can be found in our article Sparkling Smiles: Dental Care Tips for Your Boston

Boston Terrier Times