Choosing VOHC-Approved Dental Chews and Diets for Pets

Learn what the VOHC seal means and how these scientifically-backed products can support your pet's oral health.

By Garret Merkley · Explainer · Jul 19, 2026

Branched from Understanding and Preventing Periodontal Disease in Pets

Quick take

VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) approval means a product has scientific evidence for reducing plaque and/or tartar.
These products work through mechanical abrasion or active ingredients to help keep teeth cleaner between vet visits.
VOHC-approved items are a valuable supplement to, but not a replacement for, regular brushing and professional dental cleanings.
Always choose the right size and type of product for your pet's chewing style and consult your vet.

The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) is an independent organization that awards a Seal of Acceptance to pet products that meet specific scientific standards for reducing plaque and/or tartar accumulation. When you see the VOHC seal on a dental chew, diet, or other product, it means that product has been proven effective in studies reviewed by veterinary dental experts.

How VOHC Approval Works

VOHC does not test products itself. Instead, manufacturers submit scientific data, often from independent clinical trials, demonstrating their product's efficacy. The VOHC board, composed of board-certified veterinary dentists, meticulously reviews this data. For a product to earn the seal, it must show at least a 10% reduction in plaque, tartar, or both, compared to a control group. The seal will specify whether the product helps control plaque, tartar, or both.

How These Products Help Your Pet's Teeth

VOHC-approved dental chews and diets work in a couple of primary ways to promote oral health:

**Mechanical Abrasion:** Many dental chews and specially formulated kibbles are designed with unique shapes, textures, and densities that physically scrape the tooth surface as your pet chews. This abrasive action helps to disrupt and remove plaque before it can harden into tartar.
**Active Ingredients:** Some products incorporate ingredients like polyphosphates that bind to calcium in your pet's saliva, preventing the mineralization of plaque into tartar. Others might include antibacterial agents to reduce harmful bacteria in the mouth.

These products are designed to extend the benefits of professional dental cleanings and daily brushing, acting as an important part of a comprehensive home dental care routine.

Why VOHC-Approved Products Matter for Your Pet

Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in pets, often leading to pain, tooth loss, and systemic health problems if left untreated. VOHC-approved products offer a convenient and scientifically-backed way to actively contribute to your pet's oral hygiene. By regularly using these products, you can help reduce the buildup of plaque and tartar, which are primary precursors to periodontal disease. While they are not a substitute for professional veterinary dental cleanings or daily tooth brushing, they serve as an excellent supplementary tool to maintain oral health between vet visits and slow the progression of dental issues.

Choosing the Right VOHC Product

**Consult Your Vet:** Always discuss your pet's specific dental needs with your veterinarian.
**Match Size & Chewing Style:** Ensure the chew or kibble is appropriate for your pet's size and chewing habits to prevent choking hazards and ensure effectiveness.
**Check the Seal:** Look for the VOHC seal directly on the product packaging, and note whether it specifies "helps control plaque" or "helps control tartar."
**Ingredients:** Review the ingredient list, especially if your pet has dietary sensitivities.

Are VOHC-approved products a substitute for professional dental cleanings?

No, VOHC-approved products are an excellent supplement to a dental care routine but cannot replace professional veterinary dental cleanings, which address plaque and tartar below the gumline and treat existing disease.

How often should I give my pet VOHC-approved dental chews?

Follow the manufacturer's instructions on the product packaging. Many chews are designed for daily use, but it can vary. Your veterinarian can also provide guidance based on your pet's individual needs.

Do all dental chews and diets work?

No. Many products are marketed as "dental" but lack scientific evidence of effectiveness. The VOHC seal is your assurance that a product has met rigorous scientific standards for plaque and/or tartar reduction.

Can VOHC-approved products fix existing dental disease?

VOHC-approved products are primarily preventative and maintenance tools. They can help slow the progression of dental disease but cannot reverse or cure existing conditions like gingivitis or periodontitis. These require veterinary intervention.

Sources

Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) website