Ingredient studies explain why a formula is worth investigating. They do not establish the effects of a different finished product, dose or delivery format.
The veterinary-reviewed formula
Amounts below are from Dr. Menicucci’s August 13, 2026 review, per full 3.5 g scoop. They describe that reviewed formulation, not a daily dose for every dog. Follow the final product label.
| Ingredient | Per 3.5 g scoop | Role / evidence context |
|---|---|---|
| Clinoptilolite zeolite | 500 mg | Included in the formula; no finished-product dental benefit established from its presence alone. |
| Ascophyllum nodosum kelp | 330 mg | Canine research in other products supports the ingredient rationale. Naturally contains iodine. |
| Marine collagen peptides | 250 mg | Supportive formulation ingredient; not proof of gum repair. |
| Sodium hexametaphosphate | 150 mg | Calcium-binding rationale for limiting mineralization; delivery format matters. |
| Pomegranate extract, 40% polyphenols | 100 mg | Research includes a different multi-ingredient water additive. |
| Parsley leaf powder | 50 mg | Supporting botanical, not a demonstrated treatment for bad breath in this product. |
| Dental enzyme blend | 40 mg | Supportive blend; dose, activity, stability and oral contact matter. |
| Decaffeinated green tea extract, 50% polyphenols | 25 mg | Polyphenol ingredient; not proof of a finished-product clinical effect. |
| Spore synbiotic | 10 mg / 1 billion CFU* | B. coagulans, B. subtilis, B. clausii and FOS; effects cannot be transferred from unrelated strains. |
| Zinc glycinate | 7.5 mg as listed in the formula | Breath-support rationale. This table does not establish elemental zinc content. |
| Spray-dried pork liver | 105 mg in the reviewed formula | Palatability ingredient, not a tooth-cleaning active. |
| Coconut MCT oil powder | 70 mg | Formulation and palatability support. |
| Brewer’s yeast | 35 mg | Palatability support. |
| Mixed tocopherols | 4 mg in the veterinary review | Formulation support; consult the final label for the production declaration. |
| Acacia gum | To complete 3.5 g | Carrier and powder consistency. |
*The manufacturer’s formulation specification describes CFU at manufacture; this is not a verified end-of-shelf-life potency claim. Final production labeling takes precedence over this review-stage formula.
Study 1: kelp-containing treats
Gawor and colleagues studied 60 dogs for 90 days in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. After professional cleaning, dogs receiving Ascophyllum-containing treats had less plaque and calculus accumulation than controls. The research is relevant to kelp’s potential role in daily oral care. It tested treats, not Pup Choice powder. Read the 2018 study.
Study 2: a pomegranate-containing water additive
A 2023 randomized study followed 40 dogs for 30 days after professional cleaning. A water additive containing pomegranate, erythritol and inulin reduced plaque and calculus accumulation compared with control. The result belongs to the tested blend and regimen; it does not isolate pomegranate or validate this powder. Read the study.
Why include pork liver?
A product that stays in the jar cannot become a daily habit. Pork liver supplies a savory food-derived component intended to support meal acceptance. The whole powder was evaluated in the short in-home acceptance study. Because that study had no comparison bowl of plain kibble and did not isolate liver, it cannot tell us how much liver changed appetite.
Three questions for any “science-backed” label
- Was the exact product tested in dogs?
- Were the dose and delivery method the same?
- Was the outcome dental health, taste acceptance, or a laboratory measure?
We separate our product’s taste observations, a veterinarian’s formulation opinion, and published research on other products. None is presented as a substitute for the others.