Best Dental Chews for Portuguese Water Dogs

By PetEssentialist Editorial · Updated July 2026

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🏆 Quick answer

Our top pick is Greenies Original Dental Dog Treats — best for Medium-sized Portuguese Water Dogs with strong jaw strength. Why it wins: VOHC seal of acceptance for plaque and tartar control.

Portuguese Water Dogs are known for their energetic and adventurous nature, which can sometimes lead to chewing on anything they can get their teeth on. As a responsible owner, it's essential to provide them with suitable dental chews that cater to their medium size and strong jaw strength. With their high energy levels, they require regular exercise and mental stimulation, but their dental health should not be overlooked. Portuguese Water Dogs are prone to dental issues due to their breed characteristics, and regular dental care is crucial to prevent costly problems. Their medium size and strong jaw strength require dental chews that are tailored to their needs, providing the right amount of firmness and size to keep their teeth clean and healthy. By choosing the right dental chews, owners can help prevent dental issues and ensure their Portuguese Water Dog leads a happy and healthy life.

What to look for

Size and Firmness

Portuguese Water Dogs require dental chews that match their medium size and strong jaw strength. Look for chews that are specifically designed for medium-sized breeds and offer the right amount of firmness to keep their teeth clean and healthy. A chew that is too small or too soft may not provide the necessary challenge for their jaw, while a chew that is too large or too hard may be uncomfortable for them to chew on.

Dental Health Benefits

Portuguese Water Dogs are prone to dental issues, so it's essential to choose dental chews that provide real dental health benefits. Look for chews that have been clinically proven to reduce tartar buildup, plaque, and bad breath. A VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) seal of acceptance is a good indicator of a product's effectiveness.

Choking Safety

As with any breed, choking safety is a concern when it comes to dental chews. Look for chews that are designed with choking safety in mind, such as those with a unique shape or texture that makes them difficult to swallow whole.

Value for Money

While dental chews can be a valuable investment in your Portuguese Water Dog's health, they can also be expensive. Look for products that offer good value for money, taking into account the price, effectiveness, and durability of the chews.

Our top picks

SponsoredHow we choose →

#	Product	Best for
1	Greenies Original Dental Dog Treats	Medium-sized Portuguese Water Dogs with strong jaw strength
2	Virbac C.E.T. VeggieDent FR3SH Dental Chews	Portuguese Water Dogs with vegetarian dietary preferences
3	Merrick Fresh Kisses Coconut Oil & Botanicals Dental Dog Treats	Portuguese Water Dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies
4	Whimzees All-Natural Dental Dog Treats	Portuguese Water Dogs with strong jaw strength and a preference for natural ingredients
5	Pedigree DENTASTIX Dental Dog Treats	Portuguese Water Dogs on a budget or with multiple dogs

Greenies Original Dental Dog Treats

Best for Medium-sized Portuguese Water Dogs with strong jaw strength

Greenies Original Dental Dog Treats are a great match for Portuguese Water Dogs due to their unique texture and VOHC seal of acceptance. The Regular size is perfect for medium-sized breeds, providing the right amount of firmness and challenge for their jaw. With their high energy levels, Portuguese Water Dogs need dental chews that can keep up with their active lifestyle, and Greenies Original Dental Dog Treats deliver.

✓ VOHC seal of acceptance for plaque and tartar control
✓ Chewy texture cleans down to the gumline
✓ Fresh breath and healthy gums

✕ May be too firm for older or senior dogs

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Virbac C.E.T. VeggieDent FR3SH Dental Chews

Best for Portuguese Water Dogs with vegetarian dietary preferences

Virbac C.E.T. VeggieDent FR3SH Dental Chews are a great option for Portuguese Water Dogs with vegetarian dietary preferences. The Medium size is suitable for medium-sized breeds, providing a gentle yet effective cleaning action. With their high energy levels, Portuguese Water Dogs need dental chews that can keep up with their active lifestyle, and Virbac C.E.T. VeggieDent FR3SH Dental Chews deliver.

✓ VOHC accepted for plaque control
✓ Vegetarian formula with no animal proteins
✓ Enzymatic action against tartar

✕ May not be as durable as other options

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Merrick Fresh Kisses Coconut Oil & Botanicals Dental Dog Treats

Best for Portuguese Water Dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies

Merrick Fresh Kisses Coconut Oil & Botanicals Dental Dog Treats are a great option for Portuguese Water Dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies. The Medium size is suitable for medium-sized breeds, providing a gentle yet effective cleaning action. With their high energy levels, Portuguese Water Dogs need dental chews that can keep up with their active lifestyle, and Merrick Fresh Kisses Coconut Oil & Botanicals Dental Dog Treats deliver.

✓ Grain-free and hypoallergenic
✓ Coconut oil and botanical extracts for fresh breath
✓ Double-brush design for effective cleaning

✕ May be more expensive than other options

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Whimzees All-Natural Dental Dog Treats

Best for Portuguese Water Dogs with strong jaw strength and a preference for natural ingredients

Whimzees All-Natural Dental Dog Treats are a great option for Portuguese Water Dogs with strong jaw strength and a preference for natural ingredients. The Medium size is suitable for medium-sized breeds, providing a challenging yet effective cleaning action. With their high energy levels, Portuguese Water Dogs need dental chews that can keep up with their active lifestyle, and Whimzees All-Natural Dental Dog Treats deliver.

✓ Vegetarian and vegan formula with only 6 natural ingredients
✓ Six-star texture for maximum plaque removal
✓ No artificial preservatives or additives

✕ May be more expensive than other options

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Pedigree DENTASTIX Dental Dog Treats

Best for Portuguese Water Dogs on a budget or with multiple dogs

Pedigree DENTASTIX Dental Dog Treats are a great option for Portuguese Water Dogs on a budget or with multiple dogs. The Medium/Large size is suitable for medium-sized breeds, providing a affordable yet effective cleaning action. With their high energy levels, Portuguese Water Dogs need dental chews that can keep up with their active lifestyle, and Pedigree DENTASTIX Dental Dog Treats deliver.

✓ Clinically proven to reduce tartar buildup
✓ X-shape texture for effective chewing action
✓ Very affordable daily dental option

✕ May not be as durable as other options

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Frequently asked questions

How often should I give my Portuguese Water Dog dental chews?

It's recommended to give your Portuguese Water Dog dental chews daily, as part of a regular dental care routine. However, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and consult with your veterinarian for specific advice tailored to your dog's needs.

Can I use human dental chews for my Portuguese Water Dog?

No, human dental chews are not suitable for dogs. They can be toxic or cause digestive problems, so it's essential to use dog-specific dental chews that are designed for canine teeth and digestive systems.

How do I choose the right size of dental chews for my Portuguese Water Dog?

Choose dental chews that match your Portuguese Water Dog's size and jaw strength. For medium-sized breeds, look for chews labeled as 'Medium' or 'Regular'. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines and consult with your veterinarian if you're unsure.

Can dental chews replace regular brushing and veterinary dental care?

No, dental chews should not replace regular brushing and veterinary dental care. They are a supplement to your dog's oral hygiene routine, and regular brushing and veterinary check-ups are still essential for maintaining your Portuguese Water Dog's dental health.

Are all dental chews created equal?

No, not all dental chews are created equal. Look for products with a VOHC seal of acceptance, which indicates that they have been clinically proven to be effective in reducing tartar and plaque. Also, consider the ingredients, texture, and size of the chews to ensure they meet your Portuguese Water Dog's specific needs.

When it comes to choosing the best dental chews for your Portuguese Water Dog, consider their medium size, strong jaw strength, and high energy levels. Look for products that cater to these needs, such as Greenies Original Dental Dog Treats or Virbac C.E.T. VeggieDent FR3SH Dental Chews. By investing in the right dental chews and following a regular dental care routine, you can help prevent costly dental issues and ensure your Portuguese Water Dog leads a happy and healthy life.

More for your Portuguese Water Dog

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