In this study, we aimed to determine the effects of a novel dental chew on the breath odor, oral health outcomes, and oral microbiota of dogs. Healthy adult dogs were used in a crossover design study to test a diet only (control) or the diet plus a novel dental chew. Each day, one chew was provided 4 h after mealtime. Breath samples were analyzed over time and teeth were scored for plaque, calculus, and gingivitis by a veterinary dentist on day 28 of each period. After scoring, subgingival and supragingival plaque samples were collected for microbiota analysis. Dogs consuming dental chews had lower calculus coverage, thickness, and scores, lower gingivitis scores, and less pocket bleeding than control dogs. Breath volatile sulfur compounds were lower in dogs consuming dental chews. Bacterial alpha-diversity was higher in control dogs than in dogs fed dental chews. Bacterial beta-diversity analysis demonstrated sample clustering based on treatment. Control dogs had higher relative abundances of potentially pathogenic bacteria and lower relative abundances of genera associated with oral health. Our results suggest that the dental chew tested may aid in reducing periodontal disease risk in dogs by beneficially shifting microbiota and inhabiting plaque buildup.

Read the full article in the Journal of Animal Science.