Top 10 Best Dog Foods For Bad Breath 2025, According to Experts

Last Updated on November 12, 2025 by Emily Hartman

Bad breath in dogs is a common issue that can be addressed with the right diet. Choosing the best dog food for oral health can help freshen your pet’s breath.

Many products on the market target plaque and tartar buildup, which are common culprits of bad breath. Hill’s Science Diet Oral Care offers dry dog food with ingredients like chicken, rice, and barley to support oral health. Arm & Hammer provides water additives and dental treats designed to eliminate bad breath and clean teeth.

Options like Minties Dental Chews and ARK NATURALS offer treats with unique textures for freshening breath. Bocce’s Bakery and Pedigree Dentastix provide tasty alternatives to support dental hygiene. Selecting the right product can significantly improve your dog’s breath and overall oral health.

Hill’s Science Diet Oral Care, Adult 1-6

The ideal customer for Hill’s Science Diet Oral Care is a dog owner who is concerned about their pet’s dental health and is looking for a convenient way to manage plaque and tartar buildup. If you have an adult dog aged 1-6 years and are seeking a nutritious, balanced dry food option that supports oral hygiene, this product is a great choice.

Pros:

• Supports oral health by reducing plaque and tartar buildup.
• High-quality ingredients like chicken, rice, and barley.
• Specifically formulated for adult dogs aged 1-6 years.
• Convenient packaging in a 4 lb bag for easy storage.

Cons:

• Limited to adult dogs; not suitable for puppies or senior dogs.
• Higher price point compared to other dry dog foods.

Hill’s Science Diet Oral Care features a unique kibble texture that is specifically designed to clean your dog’s teeth as they chew, helping to reduce plaque and tartar. This feature is particularly beneficial for dogs that are prone to dental issues, ensuring their teeth stay clean without the need for additional dental treatments. The nutrient-rich formula includes chicken, rice, and barley, providing essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall health and vitality.

In addition to oral health benefits, this dry dog food is crafted by Hill’s Pet Nutrition, a trusted manufacturer known for their commitment to quality and scientifically backed formulas. The balanced diet offered by this product supports not only dental care but also digestive health and energy maintenance for active adult dogs. With a convenient 4 lb bag, it is easy to store and serve, making it a practical choice for busy pet owners who prioritize both convenience and their dog’s well-being.

To buy this product, click here.

Arm & Hammer Dog Water Additive For Dental Care

The Arm & Hammer Dog Water Additive is ideal for dog owners who are looking for an easy and effective solution to improve their pet’s oral hygiene. If your dog suffers from bad breath, plaque, or tartar buildup, this product is designed to help combat these issues and enhance their overall dental care routine. Perfect for those who want a hassle-free approach to maintaining their dog’s dental health without the need for traditional brushing.

Pros:

• Effective against bad breath
• Helps reduce dog tooth plaque
• Assists in tartar removal
• Easy to use; simply add to water bowl
• Trusted brand: Arm & Hammer

Cons:

• May not be suitable for dogs with allergies to specific ingredients
• Requires consistent use for optimal results
• Some dogs might dislike the taste

The Arm & Hammer Dog Water Additive is infused with baking soda, a powerful ingredient known for its ability to neutralize odors and fight plaque. This makes it a great choice for dog owners who want to tackle their pet’s bad breath and dental issues head-on. By incorporating this additive into your dog’s water bowl, you can help maintain fresher breath and cleaner teeth with minimal effort.

Additionally, the product’s user-friendly nature means that it integrates seamlessly into your pet’s daily routine, making it an excellent alternative to traditional brushing methods which can be cumbersome and stressful for both pet and owner. The Arm & Hammer Dog Water Additive is designed to provide a convenient and effective way to support your dog’s oral health, ensuring they have a healthier mouth and more pleasant breath.

To buy this product, click here.

Arm & Hammer For Pets Nubbies Dental Treats For Dogs

The Arm & Hammer for Pets Nubbies Dental Treats are perfect for dog owners who want to maintain their pet’s oral health without the hassle of daily brushing. These treats are ideal for those who are looking for an easy and effective way to reduce their dog’s bad breath, plaque, and tartar. If your dog loves peanut butter and you want to ensure their teeth stay clean and healthy, these treats are a great choice.

Pros:

• Contains baking soda and calcium for effective dental care.
• Helps fight bad breath and reduce plaque and tartar.
• Peanut butter flavor that dogs love.
• Easy to use, no brushing required.

Cons:

• Packaging may vary, which may affect user expectations.
• Not suitable for dogs with peanut allergies.

One of the standout features of the Arm & Hammer Nubbies Dental Treats is the inclusion of baking soda, a well-known agent for cleaning and odor control. This ingredient not only helps to keep your dog’s breath fresh but also contributes to the reduction of plaque and tartar buildup. This makes it a practical choice for busy pet owners who want to ensure their dog’s oral hygiene is maintained with minimal effort.

In addition to the dental benefits, these treats are infused with calcium, which supports overall dental health by strengthening your dog’s teeth. The peanut butter flavor is a hit among dogs, making it easier for pet owners to incorporate these treats into their dog’s routine. The treats are designed to be a convenient and enjoyable way to care for your dog’s teeth, providing a tasty experience while promoting healthy gums and teeth.

To buy this product, click here.

Minties Dental Chews For Dogs

Minties Dental Chews for Dogs are perfect for tiny/small dogs weighing between 5-24 lbs. If you’re a pet owner looking for a vet-recommended solution to maintain your dog’s oral health, these mint-flavored treats are ideal. They offer a convenient way to clean teeth, fight bad breath, and remove plaque and tartar effectively.

Pros:

• Vet-recommended for oral health
• Mint-flavored to effectively fight bad breath
• Helps to remove plaque and tartar
• Suitable for tiny/small dogs weighing 5-24 lbs

Cons:

• May not be suitable for larger dogs
• Flavor preference might vary among dogs

The Minties Dental Chews offer a range of features beneficial to pet owners. The mint-flavored treats are specifically designed to combat bad breath, making them an excellent choice for dogs with persistent oral odor issues. With regular use, these treats can significantly improve your dog’s breath, making interactions more pleasant for both you and your pet.

Another notable feature is their ability to remove plaque and tartar. Dental health is crucial for dogs, and these chews provide an easy and enjoyable way for your pet to maintain clean teeth. Given their vet-recommended status, you can trust that these treats are both safe and effective for your dog’s dental hygiene. Minties are also tailored for tiny/small dogs, ensuring that even the smallest of pets can benefit from their oral care benefits.

To buy this product, click here.

Ark Naturals Breath Bursts Brushless Toothpaste Dog Treats

For pet owners who are looking for a convenient and effective way to maintain their small breed dog’s oral hygiene, ARK NATURALS Breath Bursts Brushless Toothpaste Dog Treats are an ideal choice. If you have a small breed dog that struggles with traditional brushing methods or suffers from bad breath, these dog dental bits are specifically designed to help clean teeth and freshen breath effortlessly. The unique texture and peppermint flavor are both appealing and beneficial for your furry friend.

Pros:

• Unique texture helps clean teeth effectively.
• Peppermint flavor aids in freshening breath.
• Brushless design makes it easy to use.
• Ideal for small breeds.

Cons:

• Limited to small breeds only.
• Some pets may not prefer peppermint flavor.

The unique texture of these treats is engineered to simulate the scrubbing action of a toothbrush, which helps remove plaque and tartar build-up on your dog’s teeth. This brushless design ensures that even dogs who are resistant to traditional brushing can benefit from cleaner teeth and healthier gums. The peppermint flavor is not only refreshing but also contributes to eliminating bad breath, making your pet more pleasant to be around.

The ARK NATURALS Breath Bursts are manufactured by Ark Naturals Company, a brand known for its commitment to pet health and wellness. With a weight of just 0.25 pounds, these treats are lightweight and easy to store, ensuring that you always have them on hand for regular use. The white color of the treats is visually appealing and signifies their purity and health benefits, making them a reliable choice for conscientious pet owners.

To buy this product, click here.

Ark Naturals Protection Plus Brushless Toothpaste For Mini Breeds

The ideal customer for the ARK NATURALS Protection Plus Brushless Toothpaste is pet owners who have mini breeds and are looking for an easy-to-use dental solution for their dogs. This product is perfect for those who want to maintain their dog’s oral hygiene without the hassle of traditional brushing. If your dog struggles with plaque, tartar, or has bad breath, this dental chew is designed to address these issues effectively.

Pros:

• Prevents Plaque & Tartar build-up effectively.
• Freshens Breath with a unique toothpaste center.
• Designed specifically for mini breeds.
• Convenient and easy-to-use alternative to traditional brushing.

Cons:

• Might not be suitable for larger breeds.
• Limited flavor options with only Red available.
• Some dogs may not prefer the texture.

The ARK NATURALS Protection Plus Brushless Toothpaste is designed with a toothpaste center that actively works to reduce plaque and tartar build-up. This innovative feature not only helps in maintaining healthy teeth but also plays a crucial role in preventing dental diseases that are common in dogs. The chew’s texture allows the toothpaste to be effectively distributed throughout the dog’s mouth, ensuring thorough cleaning and fresh breath.

Additionally, this product is tailored for mini breeds, addressing their specific dental needs. The compact size of the chews makes it easy for small dogs to chew and enjoy. Moreover, the convenience of a brushless solution means that pet owners can easily incorporate dental care into their dog’s routine without the stress of traditional brushing methods. This product is a practical choice for busy owners who want to ensure their dogs receive optimal dental care.

To buy this product, click here.

Hill’s Science Diet Oral Care

The ideal customer for the Hill’s Science Diet Oral Care, Adult 1-6, Small & Mini Breeds Plaque & Tartar Buildup Support, Dry Dog Food is a pet owner who is concerned about their dog’s oral health. This product is especially beneficial for those with small and mini breed dogs between the ages of 1-6 years. If you’re looking to support your dog’s dental hygiene while providing them with a nutritious diet, this is the right choice for you.

Pros:

• Supports dental health by reducing plaque and tartar buildup.
• Formulated with high-quality ingredients like chicken, rice, and barley.
• Specifically designed for small and mini breeds.

Cons:

• May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary restrictions.
• Limited to a 4 lb bag size, which might not be ideal for bulk buyers.

Hill’s Science Diet Oral Care Dry Dog Food is crafted with premium ingredients to ensure your dog receives the nutritional benefits they deserve. The inclusion of chicken, rice, and barley not only provides a balanced diet but also supports lean muscle maintenance. This dog food is designed to cater to the unique needs of small and mini breeds, ensuring they receive the right amount of calories and nutrients without excess weight gain.

One of the standout features of this product is its focus on oral health. The kibble is specifically formulated to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, promoting healthier teeth and gums for your furry friend. This is crucial as dental issues can lead to more serious health problems if not addressed. By choosing this dog food, you are actively taking a step towards improving your dog’s overall well-being.

To buy this product, click here.

Bocce’s Bakery Dailies Brushy Sticks

The ideal customer for Bocce’s Bakery Dailies Brushy Sticks is a dog owner who prioritizes their pet’s oral health and fresh breath. These customers are likely looking for a wheat-free, all-natural dental solution that is both effective and delicious for their medium-sized dogs. If you seek a convenient and healthy way to maintain your dog’s dental hygiene, this product is designed for you.

Pros:

• Made with real ingredients for natural oral care.
• Wheat-free formula suitable for dogs with allergies.
• Baked in the USA ensuring high quality and safety.
• Contains coconut and mint for fresh breath.

Cons:

• Medium-sized dogs only, not suitable for smaller or larger breeds.
• Some dogs might not prefer the coconut and mint flavor.

Bocce’s Bakery Dailies Brushy Sticks are crafted with real ingredients, providing an all-natural solution to support your dog’s oral health. The coconut and mint used in these dental bars not only help in cleaning teeth but also ensure your furry friend has a pleasant breath. The wheat-free formula is ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies, making it a versatile choice for many pet owners.

These dental bars are baked in the USA, which means they meet high-quality standards and are safe for your pet. The unique blend of ingredients works to fight plaque and tartar, contributing to healthier gums and teeth. The convenient size of the bars fits perfectly for medium dogs, ensuring they get the maximum benefit from each chew. By integrating these dental bars into your dog’s routine, you’re investing in their long-term dental health and overall well-being.

To buy this product, click here.

Pedigree Dentastix Small And Toy Breed Dog Treats

The Pedigree Dentastix Small and Toy Breed Dog Treats are perfect for pet owners who have small or toy breed dogs and are looking for a way to maintain their dog’s oral health. These treats are ideal for those who want to ensure their furry friends have fresh breath and healthy teeth and gums. If you are concerned about dental issues in smaller dogs and wish to provide them with a delicious and effective solution, this product is for you.

Pros:

• Fresh flavor that dogs love
• Reduces tartar buildup
• Convenient 51 treats per bag
• Specifically designed for small and toy breeds

Cons:

• May not be suitable for large breed dogs
• Some dogs may have allergies to ingredients

The Pedigree Dentastix offers a unique texture that helps clean teeth and is scientifically proven to reduce tartar buildup. This is especially beneficial for small and toy breed dogs, who often face dental challenges due to their size. The treats are designed to be easy to chew, making them perfect for smaller mouths and helping maintain oral hygiene without the need for additional dental products.

Additionally, the fresh flavor ensures that your dog will enjoy the treat, turning dental care into a fun and rewarding experience. With a compact size and 51 treats per bag, it’s a convenient option for pet owners who want to keep their dogs’ teeth clean and breath fresh. The treats are crafted by Mars Petcare US, a trusted manufacturer known for quality pet products, providing peace of mind that you’re giving your pet the best.

To buy this product, click here.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Dry Dog Food

The ideal customer for the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Dry Dog Food is a pet owner who is particularly concerned about the joint health and immunity of their senior small breed dog. This product is perfect for those who prioritize natural ingredients in their pet’s diet and are looking for a trusted brand like Blue Buffalo to provide a balanced and nutritious meal.

Pros:

• Supports joint health in senior dogs, which is crucial for maintaining mobility and quality of life.
• Boosts immunity with essential vitamins and minerals.
• Made with natural ingredients, ensuring no harmful additives.
• Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe caters to the taste preferences of most small breed senior dogs.

Cons:

• Price may be higher compared to other brands, reflecting its premium quality.
• Might not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary restrictions or allergies.

The Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula is crafted with the needs of small breed senior dogs in mind. Its Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe provides a blend of protein and carbohydrates that is both satisfying and energy-sustaining for aging pets. Furthermore, the inclusion of glucosamine and chondroitin is essential for supporting joint health, which tends to deteriorate as dogs age. This feature helps maintain their mobility and overall well-being.

Another remarkable feature of this dog food is its focus on immunity. By incorporating antioxidants and essential vitamins, Blue Buffalo ensures that senior dogs can fight off illnesses more effectively, thus enhancing their quality of life. The emphasis on natural ingredients also means pet owners can rest easy knowing they are avoiding harmful additives that could potentially affect their pet’s health. This thoughtful formulation not only meets the nutritional needs of older dogs but also aligns with the values of pet owners who seek the best for their furry friends.

To buy this product, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Ingredients Help Reduce Dog Bad Breath?

Ingredients like peppermint, coconut, and baking soda help freshen dog breath. These components are often found in dental treats and additives. They work by neutralizing odors and reducing bacteria in your dog’s mouth, promoting better oral hygiene.

Are Dental Chews Effective For Dog Oral Health?

Yes, dental chews are effective for improving dog oral health. They help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Chewing stimulates saliva production, which naturally cleans teeth. Many dental chews contain ingredients that specifically target bad breath, making them a practical addition to oral care routines.

How Do Water Additives Improve Dog Breath?

Water additives contain ingredients that target bacteria causing bad breath. They are easy to use by simply adding them to your dog’s water. These additives help reduce plaque and tartar, promoting healthier gums and fresher breath over time.

Which Dog Foods Support Oral Health?

Dog foods like Hill’s Science Diet Oral Care are designed to support oral health. They contain special kibble textures that clean teeth while chewing. These foods often include ingredients that help reduce plaque and tartar, contributing to fresher breath.

What Are The Benefits Of Using Toothpaste Dog Treats?

Toothpaste dog treats combine dental care and treats in one. They help clean teeth and freshen breath. The unique texture of these treats aids in scrubbing away plaque. Additionally, they often contain ingredients that neutralize odors, making them a convenient oral care option.

Conclusion

Choosing the right dog food can significantly improve your dog’s breath. Various options are available to help tackle bad breath. Hill’s science diet offers a formula that supports plaque and tartar control. Arm & hammer provides effective dental treats and water additives.

For smaller dogs, minties and ark naturals offer specialized dental chews. Bocce’s bakery combines natural ingredients for oral health. Pedigree dentastix delivers a fresh flavor your pet will love. Blue buffalo caters to older dogs with a focus on joint health.

Each product has unique benefits. Consider your dog’s breed, size, and specific needs. Always consult your vet for personalized advice. With the right choice, you can say goodbye to unpleasant dog breath. Keep your furry friend’s mouth healthy and happy.

Enjoy more snuggle times without the worry of bad breath. Your dog deserves the best care, starting with their oral health.