If you've been shopping for dog dental products, you've probably come across the VOHC Seal of Acceptance. You'll find it on certain dental chews, treats, water additives, and oral care products, and it often gives the impression that it's the "best" option.
But what does the seal actually mean?
The short answer is that the VOHC seal is a good sign, but it isn't the whole story. It tells you a product has met recognised standards for reducing plaque or tartar in clinical testing. It doesn't tell you everything about the product, including what's inside it or whether another product without the seal could still be an excellent choice.
Understanding what the seal does and doesn't mean can help you make a more informed decision about your dog's dental care.
What Is the VOHC Seal?
VOHC stands for the Veterinary Oral Health Council, an independent organisation made up of veterinary dental specialists.
Its role is to review scientific evidence submitted by pet product manufacturers. The council does not test products itself. Instead, manufacturers conduct clinical trials following VOHC's guidelines and submit the results for independent review.
To receive the VOHC Seal of Acceptance, a product must demonstrate at least a 20% reduction in plaque or tartar compared with a control across two clinical trials.
That makes the seal a useful indicator that a product has been tested against recognised standards.
What the VOHC Seal Tells You
A product displaying the VOHC seal has demonstrated measurable dental benefits under controlled conditions.
It also shows the manufacturer invested considerable time and resources into clinical testing rather than relying solely on marketing claims.
For many dog owners, that's valuable information and a good starting point when comparing products.
What the VOHC Seal Doesn't Tell You
The seal is helpful, but it doesn't answer every question.
It doesn't tell you which product performs best
A product that reduces plaque by 21% and another that reduces it by 50% can both receive the same certification. The seal confirms the product met the required standard, but it doesn't rank products against each other.
It doesn't evaluate ingredient quality
VOHC focuses on clinical effectiveness, not the overall formulation. A product can receive the seal while still containing artificial colours, preservatives, or ingredients that some pet owners prefer to avoid.
If clean ingredients matter to you, it's still worth reading the ingredient list.
It doesn't mean non-certified products don't work
VOHC certification is expensive and requires extensive clinical testing.
Some smaller brands choose to invest in product development instead of certification. Others rely on published research supporting individual ingredients rather than conducting their own VOHC trials.
That doesn't automatically make those products less effective.
Choosing the Right Dental Product for Your Dog
Instead of relying on one certification, consider the bigger picture.
Ask yourself:
Is there scientific evidence?
The VOHC seal is one form of evidence, but it's not the only one. Research on individual ingredients can also provide valuable insight into how a product supports oral health.
What ingredients are included?
Look for ingredients you feel comfortable using every day.
Some owners prioritise simple ingredient lists without unnecessary colours, harsh preservatives, or fillers.
How does the product work?
Dental products support oral health in different ways.
Dental chews rely mainly on chewing action to help reduce plaque.
Enzymatic toothpastes use ingredients such as bromelain to support plaque control while brushing, helping target the sticky biofilm that forms on teeth.
Will your dog actually use it?
The best dental product is one that becomes part of a consistent routine.
Daily brushing, regular dental checks, and using products your dog accepts are all more important than choosing a product based on one certification alone.
Why We Created Arca Lab Dog Toothpaste
At Arca Lab, we believe great dental care starts with consistency.
Veterinary professionals widely recognise brushing as the gold standard for supporting canine oral health, which is why we chose to create an enzymatic toothpaste designed for everyday use.
Our formula contains bromelain, a naturally derived pineapple enzyme that has been studied for its ability to help break down proteins within dental plaque. Combined with regular brushing, it helps support cleaner teeth and fresher breath without relying on harsh abrasives.
We've also focused on the things that matter to modern pet owners:
- Bromelain, a naturally derived pineapple enzyme
- Watermelon-flavoured dogs enjoy
- No artificial colours
- Airless pump packaging for cleaner, easier dispensing
- Designed for daily brushing
Arca Lab Dog Toothpaste is not currently VOHC certified. Instead, we've focused on creating a thoughtfully formulated toothpaste built around ingredients supported by scientific research and a routine that veterinarians continue to recommend: brushing your dog's teeth regularly.
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The Bottom Line
The VOHC seal is a valuable tool when comparing dog dental products, but it shouldn't be the only factor you consider.
A complete approach looks at:
- Clinical evidence
- Ingredient quality
- How the product works
- Whether it suits your dog's daily routine
No single chew, treat, or toothpaste can replace regular brushing and routine veterinary dental care.
Choosing a product you'll actually use consistently is one of the best things you can do to support your dog's long-term oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does VOHC certified mean?
VOHC certification means a product has demonstrated at least a 20% reduction in plaque or tartar under the Veterinary Oral Health Council's testing requirements. The council reviews submitted clinical evidence before awarding its Seal of Acceptance.
Are VOHC-certified products better than products without the seal?
Not necessarily. The seal confirms a product meets recognised efficacy standards, but it doesn't compare products against one another or evaluate ingredient quality. Some products without the seal may also be effective, but have not completed the certification process.
Is brushing better than dental treats?
Brushing is widely regarded as the most effective way to remove plaque from your dog's teeth. Dental treats, chews, and enzymatic toothpastes can all play a valuable role, but they work best as part of a consistent oral care routine rather than as a complete replacement for brushing.
Why doesn't Arca Lab Dog Toothpaste have a VOHC seal?
VOHC certification requires manufacturers to complete two clinical trials following specific protocols. At Arca Lab, we've focused on developing a clean enzymatic toothpaste using carefully selected ingredients supported by scientific research, while continuing to evaluate opportunities for future clinical testing.