11 Homemade Green Dental Chew Recipes to Fight Bad Breath

This is the classic, go-to recipe for a reason! Parsley is rich in chlorophyll, a natural deodorizer that fights bad breath from the inside out. Mint provides that instantly recognizable fresh scent. Combined in a crunchy, satisfying biscuit, these are a true crowd-pleaser for pups and their owners.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a gluten-free option)
• 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh mint
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/2 cup water, plus more if needed

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and oats. Stir in the chopped parsley and mint until evenly distributed.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, melted coconut oil, and 1/2 cup of water.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a stiff dough forms. If it’s too crumbly, add more water, one tablespoon at a time.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it to about 1/4-inch thickness.
6. Use a cookie cutter (bone shapes are always fun!) to cut out the treats and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. For a crunchier treat, turn off the oven and let the biscuits cool inside with the door cracked open.
8. Let them cool completely before sharing with your eager pup.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the perfect all-rounder recipe for any dog owner looking to tackle standard doggy breath. It’s ideal for dogs who enjoy a good, crunchy biscuit and aren’t overly picky about flavors.

Ready to level up your dog’s dental health? This recipe brings in some serious superfoods. Decaffeinated green tea contains antioxidants that can help reduce oral bacteria. Spirulina, a type of blue-green algae, is packed with nutrients and chlorophyll. These chewy strips are a fantastic way to deliver a concentrated dose of green goodness.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground chicken or turkey
• 1/4 cup rice flour
• 1 tablespoon of spirulina powder
• 1/4 cup strongly brewed, cooled decaffeinated green tea
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to its lowest setting, usually around 170-200°F (75-95°C). If you have a dehydrator, even better!
2. In a bowl, combine the ground meat, rice flour, spirulina powder, green tea, and egg. Mix thoroughly with your hands until it’s well combined.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the meat mixture thinly and evenly across the sheet, about 1/8-inch thick. You can use a spatula or another piece of parchment on top to press it down.
4. Use a pizza cutter or a knife to score the mixture into long strips. This will make them easy to break apart after baking.
5. Bake for 2-4 hours (or use your dehydrator according to its instructions) until the strips are dry and leathery. The time will vary based on your oven and the thickness of the strips.
6. Let them cool completely. Break them apart along the scored lines.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This recipe is for the health-conscious pet parent who wants to give their dog an extra nutritional boost. It’s excellent for active dogs who need more protein and for pups who prefer a chewy, jerky-like treat over a hard biscuit.

On a hot day, nothing beats a cool treat. These frozen pupsicles are incredibly simple to make and serve double duty as a dental chew and a way to cool down your pup. Kale provides vitamins and fiber, while apple adds a touch of sweetness and helps scrub teeth. The frozen texture is also great for soothing the gums of teething puppies.

Ingredients:

• 1 large handful of fresh kale (stems removed)
• 1/2 apple, cored and chopped (no seeds!)
• 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt or kefir
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions:

1. Combine the kale, apple, yogurt (or kefir), and water in a blender.
2. Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth. You don’t want any large chunks of kale left.
3. Pour the green smoothie mixture into ice cube trays or fun silicone molds (paw or bone shapes are great).
4. For larger dogs, you can use small paper cups and insert a sturdy dog biscuit or a carrot stick as an ‘edible handle’ before freezing.
5. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid.
6. Pop one out and let your dog enjoy a refreshing, teeth-cleaning treat!

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Perfect for the summer months, for teething puppies, or for older dogs who have trouble with hard treats. This is the go-to recipe for pet owners who are short on time but still want to provide a healthy, homemade option.

This recipe is all about cool, gentle freshness. Cucumber is over 95% water, making it incredibly hydrating, and it also contains compounds that can help freshen breath. Dill has been used for centuries for its soothing properties and has antibacterial qualities. These light, airy biscuits are great for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup oat flour
• 1 cup brown rice flour
• 1/2 cup pureed cucumber (about half a large cucumber)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the oat flour and brown rice flour. Stir in the fresh dill.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the pureed cucumber, egg, and olive oil.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms. The cucumber adds a lot of moisture, so you shouldn’t need extra water.
5. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
6. Cut into your desired shapes and place on the baking sheet.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until firm and lightly browned on the bottom.
8. Cool completely before serving. These will be a softer biscuit.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

An excellent choice for senior dogs, dogs with sensitive stomachs, or those on a weight management plan. These chews offer a mild breath-freshening effect without being too rich or hard.

No oven? No problem! These no-bake bites are a powerhouse of nutrition. Spinach is loaded with vitamins, while coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has natural antibacterial properties that can help combat the bacteria that cause bad breath. They firm up in the fridge or freezer and provide a satisfying, chewy texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup fresh spinach, packed
• 1/2 cup xylitol-free peanut butter
• 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/4 cup shredded, unsweetened coconut (optional, for rolling)

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, pulse the rolled oats until they have a coarse, flour-like consistency.
2. Add the fresh spinach and pulse until it’s finely chopped and mixed into the oats.
3. Add the peanut butter and melted coconut oil. Process until the mixture comes together and forms a sticky ‘dough’.
4. If using, spread the shredded coconut on a plate.
5. Roll the mixture into small, 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in the shredded coconut to coat.
6. Place the balls on a parchment-lined plate or tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
7. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the ultimate recipe for busy pet parents. It’s perfect for those who want a quick, nutrient-dense treat that directly targets oral bacteria. A fantastic option for dogs who prefer softer treats.

Don’t let your dog miss out on the benefits of broccoli! These ‘little trees’ are full of fiber and Vitamin C. When baked into a crunchy oat bar, they create a treat that’s both nutritious and great for scraping away plaque. The oats provide a hearty, satisfying base that dogs love.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup broccoli florets, finely chopped or pulsed in a food processor
• 1 1/2 cups oat flour (just blend rolled oats)
• 1 egg
• 3 tablespoons of water
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli and oat flour.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk the egg, water, and olive oil.
4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until you have a thick, slightly sticky dough.
5. Press the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, forming a rectangle about 1/2-inch thick.
6. Score the dough into small, bar-like shapes with a knife.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the edges are brown and the bars are firm to the touch.
8. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet, then break them apart along the score lines.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

These bars are ideal for dogs who need a seriously crunchy treat to help with plaque buildup. They are a great, simple option for owners who want to incorporate more fibrous vegetables into their dog’s diet.

This isn’t so much a recipe as it is a brilliant, instant dental-cleaning hack. Celery is nature’s dental floss for dogs! Its fibrous, stringy texture is fantastic at cleaning between teeth as your dog chews. Topping it with a little dog-safe peanut butter makes it an irresistible treat they’ll spend time working on.

Ingredients:

• 1 fresh celery stalk
• 1 tablespoon of xylitol-free, all-natural peanut butter

Instructions:

1. Wash the celery stalk thoroughly.
2. Cut the stalk into manageable pieces for your dog’s size (e.g., a 3-4 inch stick for a medium dog).
3. Use a knife to spread a thin layer of peanut butter into the groove of the celery stick.
4. Serve immediately for a crunchy, fun, and teeth-cleaning snack!

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the ultimate solution for when you need a dental treat in a pinch. It’s perfect for any dog who loves peanut butter and provides a satisfying crunch that’s great for their teeth. An amazing, simple addition to any dog’s snack rotation.

Who says breath fresheners can’t be fruity and delicious? This recipe combines the antioxidant power of blueberries with the aromatic, antibacterial properties of fresh basil. Blended with creamy coconut milk, these frozen delights are a gourmet treat that also happens to be great for your dog’s oral hygiene.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk (unsweetened)
• 1 tablespoon raw honey (optional, for dogs over 1 year old)

Instructions:

1. Place the basil, blueberries, and coconut milk in a blender. If using, add the honey.
2. Blend until completely smooth and the mixture has a lovely purple-green hue.
3. Pour the mixture into silicone molds or an ice cube tray.
4. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid.
5. Store the frozen treats in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A fantastic choice for the foodie pup who appreciates a more complex flavor profile. These treats are perfect for a special occasion or as a refreshing summer snack that packs a healthy punch.

Here’s a recipe that’s as good for the joints and tummy as it is for the breath. Gelatin is fantastic for supporting healthy joints and a healthy gut lining. Wheatgrass is a chlorophyll superstar, and a small amount of ginger can aid digestion (which can sometimes be a root cause of bad breath). These jiggly, chewy gels are a fun and unique treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup bone broth or water
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 3 tablespoons unflavored beef gelatin
• 2 tablespoons wheatgrass powder (or 1/4 cup fresh wheatgrass juice)
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

Instructions:

1. Pour the 1/4 cup of cold water into a small bowl and sprinkle the gelatin over the top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to ‘bloom’ (it will absorb the water and become wrinkly).
2. Gently heat the bone broth in a small saucepan until it’s warm but not boiling.
3. Remove the broth from the heat and whisk in the bloomed gelatin until it is completely dissolved.
4. Whisk in the wheatgrass powder and grated ginger.
5. Pour the mixture into silicone molds or a small glass dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until the gels are completely firm.
7. If you used a glass dish, cut the gel into small, bite-sized cubes. Otherwise, pop them out of the molds.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is an outstanding choice for senior dogs who need joint support or for any dog with a sensitive digestive system. The gels are a novel way to deliver breath-freshening ingredients in a gentle, easy-to-eat format.

Did you know that gut health is directly linked to bad breath? This recipe tackles the problem from the inside out. Kefir is a fermented drink packed with probiotics, which help balance the good bacteria in your dog’s gut. Cilantro is another excellent green deodorizer, similar to parsley. Together, they make a tangy, gut-healthy frozen treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain, unsweetened kefir
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon of chia seeds (optional, for added texture and fiber)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, stir the chopped cilantro and chia seeds (if using) into the kefir.
2. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
3. Carefully spoon the mixture into silicone molds (paw or bone shapes work well).
4. Freeze for 3-4 hours, or until completely solid.
5. Pop the frozen treats out of the molds and store them in a freezer bag.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This recipe is perfect for dogs whose bad breath might be linked to digestive issues. If you’ve noticed tummy troubles alongside stinky breath, give these probiotic-packed paws a try. It’s a fantastic, health-forward approach to dental care.

This recipe offers a powerful antibacterial and antimicrobial kick. Rosemary contains natural compounds that can inhibit the growth of oral bacteria. A small amount of apple cider vinegar (ACV) can also help balance pH levels in the mouth, making it a less friendly environment for plaque-forming bacteria. These savory, herbaceous biscuits are a great addition to your dental treat rotation.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal (for crunch)
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/3 cup water or chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, cornmeal, and chopped rosemary.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg, then whisk in the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and water/broth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix to form a firm dough.
5. Roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut into shapes.
6. Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes, until hard and golden. The longer they bake, the crunchier they’ll be.
7. Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is a great ‘heavy-duty’ dental biscuit for dogs with persistent bad breath. The powerful ingredients offer more than just masking the smell; they actively work against oral bacteria. It’s best for dogs with adventurous palates who aren’t afraid of strong, savory flavors.

Making your own dog treats is a rewarding experience, but it’s important to do it safely and effectively. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you become your dog’s personal dental chef.

Choosing the Right Green Ingredients

The ‘green’ in these recipes isn’t just for color! Chlorophyll-rich ingredients are key. Great choices include:

• Parsley: The king of natural breath fresheners.
• Mint: Provides a fresh scent (use spearmint or peppermint, not English pennyroyal, which is toxic).
• Spinach & Kale: Packed with vitamins and fiber.
• Broccoli & Celery: Offer a great fibrous crunch.
• Spirulina & Wheatgrass: Superfood boosters for an extra health kick.

Important: Always research ingredients before giving them to your dog. Avoid onions, garlic, chives, and leeks, as they are toxic to dogs.

Getting the Texture Right

The effectiveness of a dental chew depends heavily on its texture. Consider what your dog needs:

• Crunchy & Hard: Biscuits and bars that are baked for a long time are fantastic for scraping away plaque and tartar through mechanical abrasion. They provide the most ‘brushing’ action.
• Chewy: Jerky-style treats or gelatin-based chews encourage longer chewing times, which stimulates saliva production. Saliva is your dog’s natural mouthwash.
• Frozen: These are less about scraping and more about soothing. They are wonderful for teething puppies or dogs with sensitive gums, and they can help reduce inflammation.

Proper Storage to Keep Chews Fresh

Homemade treats don’t have the preservatives of commercial ones, so storage is key.

• Crunchy Biscuits: Once completely cool, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them.
• Soft-Baked or High-Moisture Treats: These must be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and should be used within 5-7 days.
• Frozen Treats: Keep them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Safety First: Always Supervise Your Pup

No matter how healthy the treat, always supervise your dog while they’re enjoying it. This ensures they don’t choke or try to swallow a large piece whole. Always provide access to fresh water, as chewing can be thirsty work!

How often can I give my dog these chews?

Think of these as treats, not meal replacements. One chew per day is generally a good rule of thumb for a medium-sized dog. Adjust based on your dog’s size, activity level, and the calorie content of the recipe. When in doubt, consider them part of your dog’s daily treat allowance and make sure treats don’t make up more than 10% of their daily caloric intake.

Are there any green ingredients I should absolutely avoid?

Yes! While many greens are healthy, some are not. The most important to avoid are those in the allium family: onions, garlic, leeks, and chives are all toxic to dogs. Also, be mindful of things like avocado pits and skins. Always stick to dog-safe ingredients and introduce any new food slowly to watch for any allergic reactions or digestive upset.

My dog is a picky eater. Any tips to get them to try these?

Absolutely! For picky pups, start with a recipe that includes an ingredient they already love, like the Celery & Peanut Butter Sticks or the Green Tea & Spirulina Strips (if they love meaty flavors). You can also crumble a small piece of a new biscuit over their regular food to get them accustomed to the taste. Sometimes, baking the treats a little longer to make them extra crunchy can also entice a skeptical dog.

How long do these homemade chews last?

It varies by recipe. Hard, dry biscuits can last for a couple of weeks in an airtight container. Softer treats with higher moisture content (like the Cucumber & Dill Chews) should be refrigerated and used within a week. Frozen and no-bake treats must be kept in the fridge or freezer and will last for several weeks to a few months in the freezer. If you ever see signs of mold or they smell ‘off’, it’s time to toss them.