If you’re looking for tips to treat bad breath in dogs, you’ve come to the right place.
First of all, it is worth saying that: anyone who thinks that bad breath in dogs is something “normal” is wrong.
Sometimes, the bad smell can be due only to the lack of brushing and care for the pet’s oral hygiene. However, in other cases this condition may be an indication that something is not right in your dog’s mouth or even with his health.
Therefore, before moving on to the tips for treating bad breath in dogs, let us point out that if you identify bad breath in dogs, do not hesitate to seek a veterinary doctor. Thus, he will be able to more clearly identify the causes of the bad smell and also guide you towards the best solution in each case.
What causes bad breath in dogs?
Bad breath in dogs can have many causes. However, the most common of them is related to the lack of toothbrushing.
This is because it is common for pets to have some food residues in their mouths after eating. When these remains remain there longer than they should, they can begin to calcify and form tartar, which results in bad breath in dogs.
Furthermore, tartar, in addition to producing foul breath, increasing the chance of tooth loss, and affecting food grinding, is the entry point for stronger bacteria that can harm dogs’ health.
Also, other reasons that can cause your pet to have bad breath are infections generated by the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth of dogs (often caused by poor hygiene).
Gum inflammation (gingivitis), as well as gastrointestinal and kidney diseases, bleeding and halitosis, can also result in canine bad breath.
So, as you can see, there are a few different reasons why pets have bad breath. Therefore, let’s reinforce what we said at the beginning of the text: if you notice the difference in the odor of your dog’s breath, look for a veterinarian who can help you diagnose correctly and then solve this nuisance.
How can I tell if my dog has foul breath?
It is difficult to explain, objectively and through an article, if your dog has bad breath. It’s even common for tutors to confuse the ′′ natural ′′ odor of the dog’s mouth with bad breath.
However, what can be said is that when the pet has a stronger smell in the mouth area, it may be that something is out of the ordinary.
It is also worth remembering that health problems that are observed in other places on the face and close to the mouth can also make the tutor confused and believe that the pet has bad breath.
Therefore, to be sure that your dog is really suffering from bad breath, visit the veterinarian.
4 tips for treating bad breath in dogs
1. Brush the dogs’ teeth with specific products for them
The first of the tips for treating bad breath in dogs couldn’t be any different. Therefore, to help ensure your pet’s oral hygiene, brush his teeth according to the frequency suggested by the veterinarian.
Normally, the ideal is to brush at least 3 times a week. It could be one day yes and two no, for example. Meanwhile, to know the ideal frequency, follow the veterinary doctor’s guidance.
It is essential to emphasize that a specific toothbrush and toothpaste for dogs should be used. Keep in mind that they don’t know how to spit the paste and may end up swallowing the product.
When there is a lack of brushing, any residue that remains on the teeth can result in bad breath and the formation of tartar plaque. Furthermore, when tartar builds up, brushing alone will no longer be enough to keep your pet’s teeth clean, and it is necessary to resort to techniques made with professionals to safely remove it.
If the dog does not allow teeth brushing at home, periodic cleaning at veterinary clinics may be recommended.
2. Offer snacks, toys and foods that help clean teeth and gums
In addition to frequent toothbrushing to avoid bad breath in the dog, offer food, snacks, accessories and toys for your pet to chew. Always, of course, that they are previously indicated by a veterinarian.
There are several products that are specially made to help clean teeth and gums. Thus, they help prevent the buildup of waste and consequently tartar.
Also, accessories are a way to stimulate chewing and keep your pet entertained. Thus, they can be great allies to avoid canine bad breath and make the dog’s day to day more fun.
3. Use extra products for oral hygiene
In addition to the special toothbrush and toothpaste for dogs, you can also use extra products for canine hygiene. A good example is mouthwash made especially for dogs. They help keep pets mouth smelling and away from bacteria.
4. Make periodic appointments at the vet
Last but not least, the last of our tips for treating bad breath in dogs is: see your veterinarian periodically.
These visits can be made between six and twelve months, according to your pet’s age and, also, with the guidance of the veterinarian. Consultations are the most effective approach for you to stay on top of your dog’s health.