Plant-Based Dental Sticks

Brewer’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) is a functional yeast ingredient naturally rich in nutrients and yeast-derived compounds such as beta-glucans, mannan-oligosaccharides, and fermentation metabolites. These components are studied for their role in supporting digestive health, immune function, and overall wellbeing in dogs.

In canine studies, Saccharomyces cerevisiae products have been shown to positively influence the gut microbiota, including increased beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium, while also supporting immune markers and normal inflammatory balance.

Research in dogs also links Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation products to skin and coat support, including effects on skin sebum, antioxidant status, and immune responses. This makes brewer’s yeast especially relevant in formulations aimed at supporting gut health, skin resilience, and coat quality (Jouany et al., 2009; Davenport, 2023; Lin, 2019; Wilson, 2022).

Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays an essential role in regulating calcium and phosphorus metabolism. These minerals are important for maintaining normal bone formation and overall structural support.

Beyond its role in mineral metabolism, vitamin D3 also contributes to immune system regulation. Immune cells contain vitamin D receptors, and adequate vitamin D levels support normal immune responses and physiological balance.

Vitamin D is also involved in cellular growth and differentiation, including in tissues such as the skin. These processes contribute to maintaining skin integrity and overall tissue health.

Because of its role in immune function, skin health, and metabolic balance, vitamin D3 is commonly included in nutritional formulations designed to support overall wellbeing and resilience in dogs (Chrobak-Chmiel, 2023; Dogru, 2017; Hattangdi-Haridas, 2019; Mostafa, 2015).

Vitamin E (D-alpha-tocopherol) is an essential fat-soluble antioxidant that helps protect cell membranes from oxidative stress. Because these membranes are rich in fatty acids, they are particularly sensitive to oxidative damage, making antioxidant protection important for normal cellular function (ScienceDirect, 2014).

Vitamin E plays an important role in maintaining muscle cell integrity and supports normal nerve function. It also contributes to immune function and helps maintain healthy tissues such as skin and coat (Fagan, 2018).

Horses naturally obtain vitamin E from fresh grass, but intake can be limited when pasture access is restricted, making additional supply relevant (University of California, 2019).

Vitamin E can occur in different forms (tocopherols), each with specific antioxidant properties. A combination of these forms provides broader antioxidant support compared to a single form alone. As a fat-soluble vitamin, delivering vitamin E in an oil-based form supports its natural absorption (Quigley, 2021).

Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is a water-soluble B vitamin involved in several metabolic processes related to fatty acid metabolism and keratin production. Keratin is the structural protein that forms the basis of skin, hair, and coat.

Healthy skin depends on the continuous renewal of skin cells and the maintenance of a strong skin barrier. Adequate biotin intake contributes to normal keratin synthesis and supports the structural integrity of skin tissues.

In dogs, nutritional strategies that support skin metabolism and barrier function are particularly relevant for animals prone to skin sensitivity, itching, or coat problems. Because of its role in skin health and coat quality, biotin is commonly included in nutritional formulations aimed at supporting skin comfort and maintaining a healthy coat (Bonny Canteen, 2023; Springer, 2008; Curely, 2025).

Mint (Mentha piperita) is a well-known aromatic herb valued for its refreshing properties. It contains natural compounds such as menthol, which contribute to its characteristic cooling sensation and fresh taste.

In dental products, mint is commonly used to help freshen breath by masking and neutralizing odor-causing compounds in the mouth. This supports a cleaner, fresher oral environment.

In addition to its sensory benefits, mint is often included in oral care formulations to enhance palatability and encourage regular chewing, which plays an important role in maintaining oral hygiene in dogs (Verhelst, 2025).