As a pet parent, you should know that your dog’s breath shouldn’t smell. There can be several reasons if the odour of your dog’s breath changes. Bad breath can be a symptom of underlying health issues. Therefore, if you feel that the odour of your dog’s breath is changing for bad, we urge you to consult with a veterinarian.

This post will feature some of the causes and cures to bad breath in dogs.

What causes bad breath in dogs?

Bad breath in dogs can be due to a condition called halitosis (a condition induced by sulphur producing bacteria). These bacteria can be found on the dog’s gut, lung or throat and cause an unbearable smell.

Gum infection can also trigger bad breath in dogs. When you decide to consult a veterinarian to alleviate the concern of bad breath, prepare yourself to answer questions related to the oral hygiene, diet plan, and general behavior.

Identifying the underlying causes

If your dog has a bad breath that seems to be getting stronger with time, you can perform an inspection to find some underlying causes. You can look for the following signs:

• If your dog’s gum looks pale or colorless, it might be a gum infection.
• If there is tartar formation on the teeth, your dog lacks dental hygiene.
• Also look for loose or rotting teeth, which are also a major reason for bad breath in dogs
• If your dog’s breath smells sweet or fruity, he might have diabetes.
• If your dog’s breath smells like urine, your dog’s kidney might be the culprit
• Vomiting, diarrhea, and lack of appetite accompanied by bad breath indicate issues with the liver.

Preventing bad breath in dogs

• While taking your dog for a veterinary checkup, ensure that the vet checks him for dental hygiene.
• Ensure that you take your dog for a dental checkup at least twice in three months.
• Perform some research on a high quality easy to digest diet that can promote dental hygiene of your dog.
• Plan and execute a regular brushing routine for your dog. If your dog is hesitant to accept the toothpaste, you need to accustom him to it. The best way to do this is to take some toothpaste on your index finger and allowing your pooch to smell and taste it.
• If your dog refuses to use the toothbrush, you can try and accustom him to the device by letting him sniff and taste the paste from the brush and just brushing one tooth at a time and brushing more on subsequent days.
• Provide your dog with chew toy like Jakpak Dog Chew Toy, that are designed to clean the teeth of your dog.

Bad breath in dogs is not an overwhelming thing, as a pet parent, you just need to be aware of the possible causes and hazards related to the issue. Ensure that your dog is monitored for bad breath at least once a week. Sign him up for a detailed veterinary checkup if he has a bad breath.