How to Keep Your Dog’s Teeth Clean Without Brushing – Natural Chew Alternatives

Brushing your dog’s teeth sounds great in theory—until you actually try it.

If you’ve ever wrestled a squirming pup, toothbrush in one hand and treat in the other, you know it’s easier said than done. We tried brushing Lenny’s teeth when he was a pup, but he would flat-out refuse to sit still. It became a daily battle that left us both frustrated. Sound familiar?

The good news? You don’t have to brush your dog’s teeth to keep them clean. There are natural chew alternatives that work just as well, if not better (because chews can reach those tricky back teeth—without the struggle).

In this guide, we’ll explore the best natural dog chews for dental health and how they help keep your dog’s teeth clean, strong, and healthy. 🦴

Why Dental Health is Important for Dogs

Did you know that 80% of dogs develop dental disease by the age of three? Poor dental health can lead to bad breath, gum infections, tooth decay, and even heart disease. Regular oral care isn’t just about fresh breath—it’s about your dog’s overall health.

But let’s be real—most dogs hate toothbrushes. Luckily, chewing is nature’s toothbrush! Natural chews help scrape away plaque and tartar, keeping your dog’s mouth cleaner without the need for brushing.

Best Natural Dog Chews for Dental Health

1️. Kangaroo Teeth Cleansers

These long-lasting chews are made from kangaroo pelvis, offering a fully digestible, natural way to keep your dog’s teeth clean. Their firm texture helps scrape away plaque and tartar, making them one of the best natural dental chews available.

✔ Fully digestible (unlike synthetic dental chews)
✔ High in protein, low in fat
✔ Helps strengthen jaw muscles while cleaning teeth

Available at Lenny’s Pup Shop

2️. Bully Sticks

Bully sticks are high in protein and 100% natural, making them a safe, bone-free chew option. Unlike hard bones, bully sticks are easier to digest while still providing a firm texture to reduce plaque buildup.

✔ Long-lasting chew that keeps dogs entertained
✔ No bones = lower risk of choking
✔ Loved by picky chewers

Find premium Bully Sticks at Lenny’s Pup Shop.

3️. Shark Cartilage

Rich in collagen and chondroitin, shark cartilage supports joint health while also being an excellent dental chew for smaller dogs. The natural ridges help remove plaque while providing essential nutrients for healthy teeth and gums.

✔ Great for small and medium dogs
✔ Contains natural anti-inflammatory properties
✔ Supports joint and dental health

Try Shark Cartilage Chews for a dual-purpose treat.

4️. Roo Ribs & Roo Tails 

Kangaroo ribs and tails are fantastic for aggressive chewers who need a long-lasting chew to keep their teeth clean. The natural bone and cartilage structure helps remove plaque while satisfying their chewing instinct.

✔ Low-fat, hypoallergenic protein
✔ Great for heavy chewers
✔ Rich in calcium and phosphorus for bone health

Browse Roo Tails for a natural dental solution.

5️. Emu Femur – The Ultimate Heavy Chewer’s Dental Chew 🦴

If you have a powerful chewer, emu femur bones are one of the longest-lasting natural chews available. Packed with emu oil, they provide added benefits for joint health, inflammation reduction, and overall well-being.

✔ Guaranteed to last hours, even for aggressive chewers
✔ Rich in omega fatty acids from emu oil for skin & coat health
✔ Tough texture helps scrape plaque & tartar effectively

Check out Emu Femur Chews for your heavy chewer.

How Often Should Your Dog Chew?

For best results, give your dog a natural chew 3–4 times per week. It’s important to:
✔ Rotate different chews to keep things interesting
✔ Monitor chewing sessions to prevent gulping or choking
✔ Always provide fresh water when offering chews

Chews to Avoid

Not all chews are created equal. Avoid:
❌ Rawhide – Hard to digest and often treated with chemicals
❌ Cooked bones – Can splinter and cause blockages
❌ Artificial dental chews – Often full of fillers, preservatives, and synthetic ingredients

The Best Way to Keep Your Dog’s Teeth Clean Naturally

If your dog hates toothbrushes like Lenny did, natural chews are the best alternative. Not only do they keep your pup happy and entertained, but they also promote cleaner teeth, fresher breath, and better overall health.

At Lenny’s Pup Shop, we offer a wide range of natural dental chews designed to keep your dog’s teeth clean—without the hassle of brushing.

✔ 100% natural, single-ingredient chews
✔ No preservatives, fillers, or artificial nasties
✔ Long-lasting, effective dental care

Give your pup a healthy, clean mouth—naturally.