PetsCareLab's Conclusion: A natural, sweet-potato-based dental stick that effectively softens tartar and kills "dog breath" in pups of all ages and sizes.
Let’s be honest: trying to brush a dog’s teeth often feels like wrestling an alligator. Between the slobber and the constant head-shaking, most of us just give up, leading to that dreaded "stinky breath" and yellow plaque buildup. I decided to put Crumps' Naturals Plaque Busters Advanced to the test because it offers a "lazy person's" solution that actually uses wholesome ingredients. While many dental chews are packed with artificial fillers, these sticks claim to scrub away tartar and freshen breath in as little as 10 to 30 days using the natural abrasive power of oyster shells.
Raw Material and Facts
The ingredient list is refreshingly short. The base is sweet potato, which provides a chewy texture dogs crave. The "magic" happens with the finely ground oyster shells—they act like a natural sandpaper to scrub the teeth. Our research shows the addition of sea kelp and mint specifically targets the bacteria that cause that "garbage breath" smell.
These aren't your typical rock-hard dental bones. They have a slightly flexible, chewy consistency with a unique "flower ridge" design. As for the smell? It’s a pleasant, earthy mix of sweet potato and a hint of fresh mint—no weird, medicinal chemical odors here.
You won't find any red flags like Xylitol, grain, or artificial preservatives. It's a clean label that’s easy on sensitive stomachs.
The "User Experience" (Pet & Owner)
The sticks are about 7 inches long (though they come in various pack sizes). The flower-shaped ridges are smart—they ensure the stick makes contact with the gum line regardless of how your dog chews.
Most dogs go crazy for sweet potato. In our testing, even picky eaters who usually turn their noses up at "healthy" treats snatched these right up. They seem to view it as a high-value reward rather than a chore.
It doesn't get easier. You just give your dog one stick a day. There’s no messy toothpaste to deal with and no foam to wipe off the floor.
We didn't notice any digestive upset or "tummy rumbles," which is common with some of the more processed dental brands. Just make sure you're nearby while they chew to ensure they don't try to swallow a large chunk at once.
Effectiveness: Does It Actually Work?
The "Double Fresh" name isn't just marketing. The mint and kelp combo works quickly. By day three, you'll notice a significant drop in that stinky breath funk when your dog gives you a face-lick.
This is where the oyster shells shine. For older dogs with existing yellowing, the constant scraping action starts to soften the tartar. Owners of senior dogs have reported visible thinning of plaque at the gum line within just ten days of daily use.
While it won't replace a professional veterinary scaling for a dog with severe periodontal disease, it’s a powerhouse for maintenance. You’ll see cleaner, whiter surfaces on the premolars and molars where the dog does most of their grinding.
Pros & Cons
Final Verdict
Overall Rating
(4.5/5 Stars)
This is perfect for pet parents who want a natural alternative to "Greenies" and for owners of senior dogs who need a softer but effective dental treat.
At around $11-$12 a bag, it’s a solid investment in preventative health that could save you hundreds in dental cleanings down the road.
Would I buy it again? Yes. The ingredient transparency alone makes it a winner in our book.
Pro-Tips for Better Results
For the best results, I found that giving the stick to your dog after their main meal helps the mint and kelp sit on the teeth longer. If your dog is a "gulper," try holding one end of the stick while they chew the other to force them to use those back molars!
Disclaimer: This review is based on Petscarelab's pet owner experience. Individual results may vary.
