If you’ve ever winced at the price of a professional dental cleaning—or caught a whiff of your pup’s “dragon breath” after a snuggle—you already know why dental treats are booming. The global pet oral-care market is projected to top $2 billion by 2027, and chewy, textured “nubbies” treats are leading the charge thanks to their dual promise: happier gums and guilt-free tail wags. But beneath every knobby ridge and playful color lies a maze of ingredients, safety standards, and marketing buzzwords that can leave even seasoned owners scratching their heads.
This guide cuts through the noise. We’ll unpack the science behind abrasive textures, calorie math, and label red flags—everything you need to shop smarter in 2025 without ever naming a single product. Consider it your dental-treat PhD in under fifteen minutes.
Top 10 Nubbies Dog Treats
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Arm & Hammer for Pets Nubbies Dental Treats for Dogs with Baking Soda & Calcium, Treat Chews Help Fight Bad Breath, Plaque & Tartar without Brushing, Chicken Dog, Sm Size, 20 Pcs (Packaging may vary)
Overview:
Arm & Hammer Nubbies Dental Treats in a 20-count chicken pouch deliver the classic baking-soda-powered chew in a trial-friendly size. Each small “nubbie” is ridged to scrape plaque while your dog snacks, and the formula adds calcium for stronger enamel—no toothbrush required.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The baking soda/chlorophyll combo neutralizes odor molecules instead of masking them, and the small-breed sizing keeps calories modest at 30 kcal per chew. The pouch is resealable, so treats stay fresh without drying out.
Value for Money:
At roughly 35 ¢ per chew, you’re paying less than a single sterile dental wipe yet getting mechanical scrubbing plus breath control. It’s an inexpensive way to test whether the texture and flavor suit your dog before buying in bulk.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: Highly palatable chicken scent, gentle on sensitive stomachs, visible tartar reduction after 2–3 weeks of daily use.
Cons: Only 20 pieces disappear fast with multi-dog homes; nubbies last <2 min for power chewers; packaging graphics vary, so ingredient call-outs can be hard to read.
Bottom Line:
A convenient, low-risk intro to the Nubbies line—perfect for small dogs or first-time buyers who want cleaner teeth and fresher kisses without a big upfront spend.
2. Arm & Hammer for Pets Nubbies Dental Treats for Dogs with Baking Soda and Calcium, Treat Chews Help Fight Bad Breath, Plaque & Tartar, Peanut Butter, Value Bucket, 139 Pcs (Packaging may vary)
Overview:
The 139-count peanut-butter “Value Bucket” gives serious chewers a long-term supply of Arm & Hammer’s ridged dental treats. Each large nubbie still carries the signature baking-soda center plus new calcium fortification, but swaps poultry for a rich, allergy-friendly peanut-butter flavor.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Bulk hard-plastic tub keeps treats from crumbling in the pantry and doubles as a storage bin. The peanut-butter aroma is strong enough to entice picky eaters yet avoids common chicken-protein sensitivities.
Value for Money:
Cost per chew drops to about 33 ¢—cheaper than most single rawhide rolls and far below professional scaling. For households giving one chew daily, the bucket covers over four months, justifying the higher sticker price.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: Reusable tub, larger nubbies occupy dogs for 3–5 min, noticeable breath improvement within a week, no greasy residue on floors.
Cons: 55 kcal per piece adds up for dieting dogs; peanut scent can linger on hands; tub is bulky to travel with.
Bottom Line:
If your dog prefers peanut butter and you have the space, this bucket offers the best per-chew savings in the Nubbies family while keeping teeth clean and breath bearable.
3. Arm & Hammer for Pets Nubbies Dental Treats for Dogs with Baking Soda and Calcium, Treat Chews Help Fight Bad Breath, Plaque & Tartar, Chicken, Value Bucket, 139 Pcs (Packaging may vary)
Overview:
Identical in shape and function to Product 2, this 139-count bucket trades peanut butter for the original chicken recipe. You still get Arm & Hammer baking soda, calcium, and the same scrubbing nubs—just in the flavor most dogs instinctively love.
What Makes It Stand Out:
At 18 ¢ per chew, it’s the cheapest entry point in the entire Nubbies range. The chicken formula is the first to receive the added calcium upgrade, so batch freshness is consistently high.
Value for Money:
The price undercuts even warehouse-store dental chews by 30–40 % while delivering vet-recommended daily abrasion. One bucket lasts a 40-lb dog an entire semester of school, making it a budget no-brainer.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: Lowest cost per ounce, uniform sizing prevents gulping, resealable lid, stools stay firm thanks to digestible rice base.
Cons: Chicken allergen dogs need the peanut version; 139 treats still surrender quickly to multi-pet frenzy; plastic tub isn’t recyclable in all areas.
Bottom Line:
For chicken-tolerant dogs and cost-conscious owners, this is the sweet-spot purchase—maximum dental benefit for minimum spend, packaged to stay fresh till the last nubbie.
4. Arm & Hammer for Pets Nubbies Dental Treats for Dogs | Dental Chews Fight Bad Breath, Plaque & Tartar Without Brushing | Chicken Flavor, Size Small, 5 Count
Overview:
A micro 5-count pouch aimed at toy breeds or first-time tasters, these small chicken Nubbies deliver the same plaque-scrubbing ridges and baking-soda breath control as the bigger bags—just without commitment.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Single-serve packaging fits in a jacket pocket for park walks or weekend trips. The calorie count is trimmed to 24 kcal, ideal for dogs under 15 lb that typically choke on standard dental chews.
Value for Money:
At 80 ¢ per treat, you’re paying a premium for convenience, yet it’s still cheaper than a Starbucks espresso and far less than a veterinary dental rinse. Think of it as a test-drive pack.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: Zero waste if your dog dislikes them, chlorophyll adds natural deodorizing, no artificial colors, soft enough for senior jaws.
Cons: Price per ounce is the highest in the line; five pieces won’t impact heavy tartar; pouch isn’t resealable once torn.
Bottom Line:
Perfect for tiny pups, travel kits, or skeptical owners who want proof before investing in a bucket. Just don’t expect dramatic dental change from this teaser size alone.
5. Nylabone Natural Nubz Edible Dog Chews, 22 Count
Overview:
Nylabone Natural Nubz are fully edible, grain-free chews made from potato starch and chicken. The 22-count large bag targets adult dogs that need occupation as well as oral care, with a firm texture that flakes off in safe, digestible granules.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The zig-zag shape creates multiple scraping angles, and the absence of wheat or corn suits allergy-prone pets. Nylabone’s decades-long chew safety reputation gives owners extra peace of mind.
Value for Money:
At 91 ¢ per chew, you’re midway between budget biscuits and premium brush-free sticks. The 2.6 lb net weight feels substantial, and each piece keeps a 50-lb dog busy for 8–10 min—double most Nubbies.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: Longer chewing time reduces boredom, natural chicken flavor, no artificial preservatives, noticeably whiter canines after three weeks.
Cons: Not for puppies <6 months; 70 kcal per chew can unbalance diets; strong odor when chewed; some dogs swallow the last inch whole.
Bottom Line:
A solid alternative if you want edible dental benefits plus extended chew satisfaction. Monitor intake to avoid calorie overload, and you’ll see cleaner teeth and a calmer dog.
6. Arm & Hammer for Pets Nubbies Dental Treats for Dogs with Baking Soda and Calcium, Treat Chews Help Fight Bad Breath, Plaque & Tartar without Brushing, Md Size Mint, 62 Pcs (Packaging may vary)
Overview: Arm & Hammer’s 62-piece mint “Nubbies” bucket gives medium-size dogs a daily edible toothbrush. Each ridged chew is infused with baking soda and calcium to scrape plaque, neutralize odor, and fortify teeth while your pup thinks he’s simply getting dessert.
What Makes It Stand Out: The textured nubs act like flexible bristles that reach gum-line crevices most biscuits miss, and the baking soda/chlorophyll combo attacks bad breath at a chemical level instead of just masking it. The resealable carton delivers two full months of coverage for one moderate price.
Value for Money: At roughly 52 ¢ per chew you’re outsourcing tooth-brushing for less than a daily dental wipe, and the added calcium replaces separate supplements. Compared with professional cleaning bills, the bucket pays for itself if it prevents even one vet scaling.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros—highly digestible, mint scent noticeable instantly, resealable tub stays fresh. Cons—mint flavor isn’t universally loved (some dogs walk away), not sized for toy or giant breeds, calorie load can add up for dieting pups.
Bottom Line: If your medium dog tolerates mint, this is the simplest, most economical path to noticeably fresher kisses and cleaner molars. Keep a backup flavor on hand for finicky days, but the 62-count bucket deserves pantry space in any proactive pet home.
7. Nylabone (Pack of 2) Natural Nubz Edible Dog Chews 22ct. (2.6lb/Bag) -Total 5.2lb
Overview: Nylabone’s twin-pack delivers 44 total “Natural Nubz”—a firm, edible, chicken-based chew whose bumpy surface works like floss as dogs gnaw. Sold as two 2.6-lb bags, the bulk format targets multi-dog households or power chewers who plow through single treats in seconds.
What Makes It Stand Out: Nubz last longer than typical soft dental sticks yet remain fully digestible, so you get extended mechanical scrubbing without rawhide risks. The limited-ingredient recipe skips artificial colors and preservatives, and the jumbo count means fewer last-minute store runs.
Value for Money: At $7.34 per pound this is warehouse-club pricing without the membership fee; each chew costs about 86 ¢, beating boutique dental chews by 30-40 %. For owners of two-plus dogs, the savings compound quickly.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros—long chew time, natural chicken flavor, bulk keeps pantry stocked. Cons—large size unsuitable for puppies or dogs under 15 lbs, hardness may fracture senior teeth, bags aren’t resealable so plan an airtight bin.
Bottom Line: Buy the double pack if you share life with large, voracious chewers. The cost-per-cleaning is excellent, but supervise first-timers and choose a smaller Arm & Hammer option for toy breeds or adolescents still sporting baby teeth.
8. Arm & Hammer for Pets Nubbies Dental Treats for Dogs | Dental Chews Fight Bad Breath, Plaque & Tartar Without Brushing | Peanut Butter Flavor Value Bucket, 53 Pcs
Overview: Arm & Hammer’s 53-count peanut-butter “value bucket” repackages the classic Nubbies formula into a screw-top tub that smells like a cookie jar to dogs. Baking soda, chlorophyll, and ridged texture again do the scrubbing and deodorizing so you can skip the nightly wrestling match with a toothbrush.
What Makes It Stand Out: Peanut butter aroma converts even treat-snobs, while the raised nubs continue to mechanically strip plaque. Being rawhide-free and highly digestible, the chews suit aggressive chewers who normally swallow chunks whole.
Value for Money: 56 ¢ per piece undercuts Greenies and most vet-office chews, and the robust plastic tub prevents stale waste. If you feed one every other day, you’re covered for nearly four months—remarkable for a $30 spend.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros—irresistible flavor, generous count, safer than rawhide. Cons—calories add up (≈60 kcal each), tub is bulky for small shelves, peanut scent can linger on hands and carpets.
Bottom Line: For households battling brush-averse dogs, this bucket is the path of least resistance to cleaner teeth and sweeter breath. Portion wisely for weight control, but the price-per-chew and palatability make it a pantry staple worth reordering.
9. Arm & Hammer for Pets Nubbies Dental Treats for Dogs with Baking Soda and Calcium, Treat Chews Help Fight Bad Breath, Plaque & Tartar without Brushing, Peanut Butter, 20 Pcs, 4pk (Packaging may vary)
Overview: This four-pack bundle offers 80 peanut-butter Nubbies in travel-friendly, 20-count pouches—perfect for weekend trips, dog-sitter drop-offs, or owners who prefer smaller openings to keep treats fresh. Inside, the same Arm & Hammer baking-soda-plus-calcium recipe scrubs and fortifies teeth without a brush.
What Makes It Stand Out: Individual pouches eliminate the “stale factor” that plagues large tubs, and the portioned format lets multi-pet homes meter exact quantities. Peanut-butter flavor remains a canine crowd-pleaser, while chlorophyll adds a natural breath-freshening boost.
Value for Money: At 74 ¢ per ounce the unit price is slightly higher than the big bucket, but you’re paying for convenience and portability. Frequent travelers will save more by not tossing half a tub of dried-out chews.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros—resealable pouches stay fresh, TSA-friendly packaging, same dental benefits as larger sizes. Cons—higher cost per chew, more plastic waste, medium size only—no tiny or giant options.
Bottom Line: Choose the 4-pack if you value grab-and-go convenience or want to trial the product before investing in a 50-plus bucket. Otherwise, the larger tub still wins on pure economics. A smart middle ground for mobile pet parents.
10. Nylabone Nubz Natural Dog Chew Treats for Small Dogs, Long Lasting Dog Bones Made in USA, Chicken Flavor Breath Freshener Dental Chews, for Dogs Up to 25 lbs. (36 Count)
Overview: Nylabone downsizes its popular Nubz into a 36-count pouch crafted for dogs under 25 lb. Made in the USA with real chicken and zero artificial additives, these petite chews deliver moderate abrasion to scrub tiny incisors without overwhelming little jaws.
What Makes It Stand Out: Most dental treats force small dogs to tackle bone-sized portions; these 2-inch sticks fit comfortably in a Yorkie’s mouth. Limited-ingredient transparency appeals to allergy-conscious owners, and the USA sourcing ensures consistent quality control.
Value for Money: $11.20 per pound positions it in the premium aisle, yet each chew lasts 5-10 min—long enough to clean but short enough to avoid calorie overload. The 36-count supply covers five weeks of daily use, justifying the uptick over grocery-store biscuits.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros—perfect size for small mouths, single-protein chicken, no fake dyes. Cons—costlier per ounce than bulk brands, not suitable for dogs over 25 lb, chicken flavor may trigger poultry allergies.
Bottom Line: If you parent a petite pooch and prioritize ingredient integrity, Nylabone Small Breed Nubz are worth the splurge. They deliver dental benefits without the choking risk of oversized chews, and the USA-made label offers extra peace of mind.
Why Dental Chews Matter More Than Ever in 2025
By age three, 80 % of dogs have some periodontal disease. Chewing is nature’s toothbrush, stimulating saliva that rinses away bacteria and creating mechanical abrasion that scrapes away soft tartar before it mineralizes into cement-hard calculus. Veterinary dentists now recommend daily chewing as the single most effective at-home intervention—provided the chew is safe, correctly sized, and actually contacted by every tooth.
The Science Behind “Nubbies” Texture
Nubbies—those bumpy, ridged, or honeycombed surfaces—aren’t just cute; they triple the surface area that contacts the tooth. When a dog bites down, the flexible nubs splay outward, wiping the buccal (cheek) side of the tooth where plaque accumulates fastest. Peer-reviewed studies show up to 60 % more plaque removal versus smooth sticks of identical composition.
VOHC Certification: The Gold Standard Explained
The Veterinary Oral Health Council awards its seal only after two independent trials prove a 20 % reduction in plaque or tartar. In 2025, VOHC has expanded criteria to include gastrointestinal tolerance and calorie disclosure. If you see the seal, you’re buying the chew equivalent of an FDA-approved drug—no guesswork.
Ingredient Spotlight: What to Embrace and What to Avoid
Look for gelatinized starches or hydrolyzed proteins that form a flexible matrix; they clean without splintering. Avoid anything with cellulose powder as the first ingredient—it’s basically sawdust, adding bulk but zero dental benefit. And steer clear of artificial titanium dioxide whitening agents, banned in human food across the EU since 2022.
Calorie Density vs. Daily Feeding: Doing the Math
A 30-lb dog needs roughly 400 kcal per cup of dry food. Some dental chews pack 60–80 kcal apiece—equivalent to a human eating an extra cheeseburger daily. Convert to “treat calories” that should never exceed 10 % of total intake, and adjust meal portions accordingly to avoid the “dental-treat belly.”
Size & Hardness: Matching Chew to Breed and Bite Force
Greyhound molars exert 350 psi; a Yorkie’s barely 90 psi. A chew too soft for a power chewer becomes an instant swallow hazard, while an ultra-hard bone can slab-fracture a small dog’s carnassial. Use the “thumbnail test”: if the chew doesn’t indent when you press with your thumb, it’s too hard for any dog under 30 lb.
Digestibility & Safety: Reading Beyond Marketing Claims
“Highly digestible” isn’t regulated; some brands merely mean the chew dissolves in strong acid (a dog’s stomach). Look for in-vivo digestibility studies—≥ 85 % is considered safe. Bonus points for chews with added postbiotics that nurture gut flora disrupted by high-protein diets.
Grain-Free vs. Limited Ingredient: Dental Myths Busted
Grain-free doesn’t mean carb-free. Tapioca, pea starch, and lentils still ferment into sugars that feed oral bacteria. Limited-ingredient chews help allergy dogs, but if the single protein is salmon and the chew is soft, you’re trading dental abrasion for skin relief—decide which battle matters more.
Flavor Palatability: Encouraging Consistent Chewing Habits
Dogs prefer volatile fatty acids—think chicken fat or hydrolyzed liver—detectable at 0.1 ppm. If your chew smells like cardboard to you, it’s probably tasteless to them. Rotate flavors monthly to prevent “treat boredom,” the top reason dogs abandon half-chewed sticks.
Sustainability Angle: Eco-Friendly Packaging and Sourcing
Post-consumer recycled pouches cut plastic by 70 %. Look for MSC-certified fish or upcycled sweet-potato pulp from human-food processors. Brands offering send-back programs for used packaging earn extra planet points—and often loyalty discounts.
Price vs. Value: Calculating Cost per Cleaning Session
Divide package price by the number of chews, then again by the VOHC-recommended frequency (usually daily). A $30 bag that lasts 30 days equals $1 per cleaning—far cheaper than the $3–$5 per-day dental diets. Factor in vet savings: every avoided cleaning ($400–$1,200) effectively pays for years of chews.
Transitioning Tips: Introducing New Chews Without GI Upset
Start with 25 % of the suggested dose for three days, watching for loose stools. Pair with a tablespoon of plain canned pumpkin to buffer fiber changes. If diarrhea persists beyond 48 hours, the chew’s protein source may not agree with your dog—swap flavors or brands.
Signs It’s Time to Switch: Allergies, Wear Patterns, and Vet Feedback
Rubbing face on carpet, inflamed lips, or increased ear scratching can signal a chicken or beef intolerance. Check chew ends: if they’re razor-sharp instead of rounded, your dog is an aggressive gnawer who needs a softer formula. Bring used chews to annual exams; vets can spot abnormal wear and recommend alternatives on the spot.
Storing Dental Chews: Humidity, Temperature, and Shelf-Life Hacks
Polypropylene bags are oxygen-permeable; once opened, moisture drops texture integrity by 30 % within two weeks. Re-seal in glass jars with a food-grade desiccant packet, and store below 75 °F. Freeze half the bag if you buy in bulk—thaw overnight for a firmer chew that lasts longer.
Traveling with Treats: TSA Rules and On-the-Go Freshness
Solid dental chews count as “pet food,” not liquid, so domestic flights allow them in carry-ons. Pre-portion into silicone pouches with zip tops; they won’t explode under cabin pressure. For road trips, stash a small cooler pack to prevent summer melt of gelatin-based textures.
Homemade vs. Commercial: Weighing Pros, Cons, and Vet Oversight
DIY sweet-potato dehydrated wedges cost pennies and control ingredients, but they lack VOHC data—meaning zero proof they work. Commercial chews invest in trials and insurance-backed safety. Hybrid approach: use homemade for travel backups, commercial for proven dental benefit, and always clear recipes with your vet for toxic additives like xylitol or onion powder.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How soon will I see cleaner teeth after starting daily nubbies treats?
Most owners notice fresher breath within seven days and visible tartar reduction within four to six weeks, assuming consistent use and pre-existing buildup is mild-to-moderate.
2. Can puppies under six months use dental chews?
Only if the label explicitly states “for puppies” and your vet confirms adult molars aren’t erupting; otherwise, you risk damaging soft puppy teeth.
3. Are there any breeds that shouldn’t use nubbies-style chews?
Brachycephalic breeds like pugs may struggle to grip large knobby shapes—opt for smaller, pliable strips, and supervise closely.
4. What should I do if my dog swallows a large piece?
Offer a small meal to stimulate gastric emptying, monitor for vomiting or lethargy, and call your vet if the piece exceeded 2 % of body weight.
5. Do dental chews replace brushing?
No. Think of chews as flossing and brushing as, well, brushing. Combine both for best results.
6. How do I check if a chew is too hard for my dog?
Try the “knee cap test”—if you wouldn’t want it banged against your knee, it’s too hard for your dog’s teeth.
7. Can diabetic dogs have dental treats?
Yes, but pick low-glycemic formulas (under 2 g sugar per chew) and factor calories into the daily insulin plan with your vet.
8. Why do some chews turn my dog’s poop orange?
Natural colorants like turmeric or annatto aren’t fully absorbed; the hue is harmless and temporary.
9. Is it safe to microwave a dental chew to soften it?
Only if the package explicitly allows it; microwaving can create hot pockets that burn mouths and alter texture unpredictably.
10. How do I recycle used dental chew packaging?
Check for a TerraCycle logo; if absent, rinse, dry, and drop soft plastics at grocery-store collection bins—never curbside.