Greenies Dental Treats Review: Do They Actually Clean Teeth?

Dog dental treats are a $700 million industry. Most of that is marketing fluff—treats that taste good but don't actually clean teeth.

Greenies are different. They're one of the few treats accepted by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC), meaning they've been independently tested and proven to work.

But how well do they work? And are they worth the price? I did the research.

What Are Greenies Dental Treats?

Greenies are dental chews with a chewy texture designed to clean teeth as dogs chew. The unique shape reaches back teeth where plaque builds up most. They're made with natural ingredients and are VOHC-accepted for tartar control.

Key features:

• VOHC-accepted (independently proven effective)
• Chewy texture scrubs teeth while chewing
• Added vitamins and minerals
• Multiple sizes for different dogs
• Natural ingredients, easily digestible

The Science: Do They Actually Work?

Here's what matters: the VOHC seal. The Veterinary Oral Health Council only accepts products that have clinical trial data proving they reduce plaque or tartar. Greenies have this seal.

VOHC acceptance means Greenies reduced tartar by at least 15% in clinical trials. That's not marketing—that's measured data.

To be clear: they're not magic. They don't replace brushing. But they're one of the few treats that actually do something beyond just tasting good.

Testing on My Own Dog

My dog Max has always had plaque buildup issues. His vet mentioned it at every checkup. I've tried various dental treats over the years—most made no difference.

After 3 months of daily Greenies:

• Vet noticed less plaque at his checkup
• His breath improved (not perfect, but better)
• He actually enjoys them (important—can't clean teeth if they won't eat the treat)

Is it dramatic? No. But it's measurable improvement without the daily brushing battle.

Who Should Buy These?

• Dog owners who can't brush their dog's teeth regularly
• Anyone looking for a treat that actually does something

🏆Also Worth Checking: Greenies Original Teenie Dental Treats

VOHC-accepted dental chews that clean teeth while dogs chew.

• Dogs with plaque buildup issues
• Pet parents who want VOHC-backed products

If you already brush daily, you might not need these. But for the 95% of us who struggle with regular brushing, they're a legitimate help.

The Honest Pros and Cons

Pros

• VOHC-accepted (proven to work)
• Dogs love them
• Easy daily dental care
• Available in multiple sizes
• Digestible and safe

Cons

• Not a replacement for brushing
• Can be expensive for large dogs
• High in calories (count toward daily intake)
• Some dogs inhale them too fast to get benefit

Tips for Best Results

• Give one daily for consistent results
• Choose the right size for your dog's weight
• Supervise chewing (make sure they actually chew, not swallow whole)
• Count calories—these aren't low-cal treats
• Combine with professional cleanings

Pro tip: If your dog swallows treats whole, try a size up or switch to a different texture they'll actually chew.

The Bottom Line

Greenies aren't magic. They won't transform your dog's dental health overnight. But they're one of the few treats with actual evidence behind them, and that counts for something in a market full of unproven claims.

My verdict: Worth it for dogs who won't tolerate brushing. The VOHC seal means something—this isn't just marketing. If dental health matters to you and daily brushing isn't happening, Greenies are a solid compromise.

Just remember: size matters, daily use matters, and actual chewing matters. Give them correctly and you'll likely see results.

Greenies Original Dental Dog Treats

Check price on Amazon

🏆✅ Our Recommendation: Greenies Original Dental Dog Treats

Vet-recommended dental chews that clean teeth with every bite.