Ark Naturals Brushless Toothpaste Review: The "Lazy" Way to Save Your Dog’s Smile
PetsCareLab’s Conclusion: An excellent 4-in-1 dental solution for small dogs (8-20 lbs) that tackles plaque and "dragon breath" without the daily struggle of a toothbrush. Best for adult dogs and pups over 12 weeks old who need a medium-to-hard chew to keep their pearly whites clean.
Let’s be honest: very few of us actually brush our dog’s teeth every single day. We start with good intentions, but after three rounds of wrestling a slippery toothbrush away from a wiggly pup, most of us give up. That’s how "dog breath" starts, but it’s the hidden plaque and tartar buildup that really leads to expensive vet bills. I decided to look into Ark Naturals Brushless Toothpaste because it’s a viral favorite among owners of small breeds who want a "set it and forget it" solution to oral hygiene. The brand claims you’ll see fresher breath and cleaner teeth if you let your dog do the "brushing" themselves by chewing these treats twice a day.
Product Profile (At a Glance)
Raw Material and Facts
This isn't just a standard hard bone. It features a patented design with a crunchy outside to scrub the tooth surface and a soft toothpaste center. It uses natural ingredients like sodium hexametaphosphate to help prevent tartar from bonding to the enamel.
Expect a medium-to-hard outer shell with a slightly softer core. Unlike many dental chews that smell like industrial chemicals, these have a distinct, pleasant scent of cinnamon and cloves. It’s a refreshing change from the "stinky fish" smell of other treats.
Our team at Petscarelab loves that this recipe skips the "big three" fillers—corn, soy, and wheat. There’s no xylitol or artificial colors here, making it a safer bet for sensitive tummies and overall pet safety.
The "User Experience" (Pet & Owner)
The 12oz bag is resealable, which is a must to keep these chews from turning into rocks. The treats themselves have ridges designed to get right up against the gumline as the dog bites down, improving dental utility.
Most small dogs go crazy for the chicken-based flavor. While some dental products taste like medicine, these seem to pass the picky-eater test with flying colors.
On a scale of 1–10, this is a 1. You literally just hand it to your dog. No foam, no rinsing, and no bitten fingers during the application process.
Most pups spend a good 5–10 minutes working through the chew. Some owners of very tiny dogs noted the chew might be a bit hard for senior dogs with missing teeth, but for healthy adult small breeds, it’s the perfect resistance level.
Effectiveness: Does Ark Naturals Brushless Toothpaste Actually Work?
The cinnamon and clove are heavy hitters here. You’ll notice an immediate deodorizing effect on your dog's breath. It doesn't just mask the smell; it actually neutralizes it for fresher breath.
This is where the mechanical scrubbing pays off. If you look at the back molars—where plaque usually hides—you should see less yellow film. It won't replace a professional vet cleaning for a dog with severe periodontal disease, but it’s a powerhouse for maintenance.
Owners who use these twice daily often report their vets asking what they’re doing differently. It keeps the gumline pink and healthy rather than red and inflamed, reducing plaque buildup.
Pros & Cons
Final Verdict
Overall Rating
Perfect for owners of small dogs like Yorkies, Chihuahuas, or Pugs who are prone to dental issues but hate the toothbrush.
At around $16 for a 12oz bag, it’s more expensive than grocery store brands but significantly cheaper than a professional scaling at the vet. It offers great value for money for long-term health.
Would I buy it again? Yes. It’s one of the few dental chews that actually feels like it’s doing more than just giving the dog something to chew on while promoting oral health.
Pro-Tips for Better Results
To get the most out of Ark Naturals Brushless Toothpaste, don't just toss it on the floor. Hold one end of the chew while your dog gnaws on the other. This forces them to use their side molars—the "chewing" teeth—where the most plaque builds up. Also, make sure your dog's water bowl is always full of fresh, clean water to help wash away the loosened debris after they finish their treat!
Disclaimer: This review is based on Petscarelab's pet owner experience and research. Individual results may vary. Always consult your vet if your pet has bleeding gums or loose teeth.
