The Ricebone is Whimzees' bone-shaped chew, and half of it is rice: the label lists rice at 50%, then potato starch, vegetable glycerin, cellulose, yeast, malt and sweet lupin. There is no meat in it, and the grooved shape is meant to work into the gaps between teeth while the dog chews.

This is the small four-piece pouch, sized M/L, so one pouch covers a broad band of dogs, from 12kg to 27kg. Whimzees say a firmer, vegetable-based texture is what helps with plaque and tartar, and that a longer chew keeps a dog occupied for longer.

• 4 chews, net weight 240g (as printed on the pouch)
• Size M/L: for dogs of 12-27kg, aged 9 months and over
• Rice 50%; soy lecithin as the only listed additive
• Protein 4.0%, fat 2.0%, fibre 3.1%, ash 2.4%, moisture 12.0%
• No added meat, wheat, corn, dairy, sugar, eggs, or artificial colours, flavours or preservatives, the maker says
• Made in Holland

Two things worth knowing. Whimzees give 189 kcal for a large Ricebone, which is a fair chunk of a smaller dog's daily allowance, so it is worth trimming meals on days you give one. The pack says 12-27kg while the maker's web page says 25-60lb (about 11-27kg); either way this is not a chew for a small dog, and it is not for puppies under 9 months.

Who it's for: owners of a medium to large adult dog who want a meat-free, longer-lasting dental chew in a small pack to try.