Bad Breath in Dogs: Causes and Solutions
Laura Evans | March 29, 2023
14,271Does your furry friend have bad breath? Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is a common issue among dogs. Not only is it unpleasant for the dog’s owners, but it can also be a sign of an underlying health problem.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the causes of bad breath in dogs and provide some solutions for combating it.
Jump to section
What Causes Bad Breath in Dogs?
There are a few main causes of bad breath in dogs:
Dental issues: Poor oral hygiene can lead to bad breath in dogs. Plaque and tartar build-up on the teeth can cause inflammation of the gums, leading to bad breath.
Diet: A diet high in protein and fat can contribute to bad breath in dogs. This is because the breakdown of these nutrients in the body produces smelly by-products that are exhaled through the mouth.
Medical conditions: Bad breath in dogs can also be caused by certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease or diabetes. These conditions can cause changes in the way the body processes nutrients, leading to bad breath.
How to Combat Bad Breath in Dogs
There are several things you can do to help combat bad breath in your furry friend:
Brush your dog’s teeth regularly: Regular teeth brushing is the most effective way to prevent bad breath in dogs. Use a toothbrush and enzymatic toothpaste specifically designed for dogs to brush your dog’s teeth at least twice a week.
Provide dental chews: Dental chews can help remove plaque and tartar from your dog’s teeth, keeping them clean and healthy. Just be sure to choose a dental chew that is appropriate for your dog’s size and age.
- Add dental-specific additives to their water: There are water additives that you can use to help improve your dog’s dental health. These additives contain enzymes that help to break down plaque and tartar, freshen your dog’s breath, and prevent the build-up of new plaque and tartar.
Add flavor to their food: Adding fresh parsley, mint, or dill to your dog’s food can help freshen their breath.
Change your dog’s diet: If your dog’s diet is high in protein and fat, consider switching to a lower-fat, lower-protein option. This can help reduce bad breath caused by the breakdown of these nutrients in the body.
Hydration: Drinking water can help flush out bacteria that causes bad breath and also improve overall oral health
Visit the vet: If you’ve tried the above solutions and your dog’s bad breath persists, it’s a good idea to visit the vet. They may recommend a professional dental cleaning or other procedures such as scaling and polishing, which can remove plaque and tartar buildup from your dog’s teeth. In some cases, your vet may also recommend X-rays or other diagnostic tests to check for underlying health issues that may be contributing to your dog’s bad breath.
Conclusion
Bad breath in dogs can be a sign of underlying health issues, so it’s important to address it as soon as possible. By brushing your dog’s teeth regularly, providing dental chews, changing their diet, and visiting the vet if necessary, you can help keep your furry friend’s breath fresh and healthy.
Ensure your pet’s well-being without compromising your financial stability – enjoy peace of mind with Lemonade’s pet insurance offering comprehensive coverage, hassle-free claim processing through their user-friendly app, and an impressive 90% reimbursement rate, providing a seamless online experience. Sign up in seconds. Get paid in minutes.
Please share this information with fellow dog owners. By doing so, you might help save a life and ensure more dogs enjoy their golden years in good health.
Disclosure: This page contains some affiliate links. If you click and purchase, We may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and services we have verified and/or personally used. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.