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Dog Bad Breath – Are you a dog lover? Ohh, you are! That’s great! As a dog person, you must have loved to cuddle your dog, but whenever he comes in for a kiss, it makes you avoid him? That may be because of the dreadful smell coming from his mouth. This may seem like a whiff to you, but the dog’s bad breath can be counted as a red signal for you about your dog’s health, so you should never avoid it. No, no, don’t panic! There may be several reasons behind this. In this blog, you will get to know about different possible reasons for dog bad breath and also the ways to get rid of them.
6 Reasons for Dog Bad Breath
#1 Gum Problem
Periodontal disease, one of the common reasons lie behind dog bad breath. Building up of bacteria called plaque on your dog’s teeth can give rise to the unpleasant odor in his mouth, and not only this odor, but it can also cause irritation and inflammation of the gums. This irritation and inflammation is the first sign of gum disease that can obviously become dangerous for your dog’s health.
#2 Major Diseases
There are several diseases that are connected to dog bad breath, such as:-
Diabetes
If your dog’s mouth gives a sweet, fruity smell, more smell like acetone, then it may be because he has diabetes. Diabetes promotes ketone building that breaks down fat instead of glucose and results in a sweet aroma like a nail polish remover. Some of the other symptoms that symbolize that your pet may have diabetes include weight loss, increased appetite, some behavioral changes such as excessive sleeping or getting irritated, etc.
Liver Disease
One of the other possible reasons for dog bad breath is liver disease. If your dog has a powerful smell that is unbearable at all, then it may be because of the liver problem your dog is suffering from. Maybe some stinky sulfur compounds are released into the lungs of your dog as his liver is not able to filter out the toxins, and thus he has a musty or dead animal-like smell.
Kidney Disease
If your dog’s breath smells like urine, then it could signify that your dog is suffering from a kidney disease called uremic. Uremic is caused by toxins that can build up in your dog’s body because of kidney failure. Some of the other symptoms of this disease include sudden weight loss or gain, appetite changes, excessive urination, or less urination; the same goes on for drinking habits, depression, etc.
#3 Gut Problem
This is one of the least common reasons for a dog’s lousy breath, but you should still consider it. Stomach and digestive problems such as megaesophagus, a disorder in which the esophagus dilates and loses motility, can also cause oral odor. Some other symptoms that illustrate the disease include changes in appetite, nausea, puking, etc.
#4 Nasty Diet
Maybe you have been hunting for different diseases that have caused this lousy odor to your dog’s bad breath. While it is just that your dog has eaten something unpleasant that smells horrific. Yes, it is possible! Maybe he has eaten something from the trash that has resulted in a horrendous smell. This may happen, and then the smell would be temporary.
#5 Cold or Sinus Infection
Have you ever noticed that when you have a cold, and you have to breathe through your mouth, a foul and unpleasant smell comes from your mouth? That is because breathing through the mouth makes it dry, which ultimately results in a foul smell. The same thing can happen to your dog. If your dog is suffering from sinusitis (sinus infection) or rhinitis (allergic reaction), then this is the reason that lies behind his bad breath.
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#6 Oral Tumors
Not only some gum problems, but oral tumors can also cause a foul smell. A dog’s mouth is somewhat similar to ours. It is made up of several different cell types, and thus dogs can also have oral tumors. An oral tumor is an abnormal growth and unregulated replication of cells that occur within the mouth. Some of these tumors grow slowly and do not spread, while some are aggressive. So, these tumors can also be dangerous for your dog.
How to Cure Dog Bad Breath?
You have read the reasons that cause dog bad breath. The only way to cure this bad breath is to fix the disease/ reason that lies behind it. Once the disease is treated, the foul smell will automatically get vanished. So let’s see how can different causes for causing dog’s bad breath can be defeated:
#Treatment for Gum Problem
Although gum disease is one of the common problems that can occur to your dog, if not treated properly, then it can lead to chronic pain, eroded gums, and teeth loss. Therefore it should get treated timely. However, treatment of this problem will depend upon how serious the problem is, and a veterinarian can only tell that. Still, some of the practices that can help you get rid of dog bad breath caused by gum problems are dog mouth wash, dental cleaning, antibiotics, etc.
#Caring for Diabetic Dog
Dogs with Diabetes generally need lifelong treatment that includes special diets, a good fitness regimen, and daily insulin injections. You can manage your dog’s diabetes by keeping his sugar level normal. You must avoid too-high, or too-low sugar levels as that can be life-threatening for him. Please give him a high-fiber diet, and daily exercise is strongly recommended in such cases.
#Treatment for Liver Disease
Liver Disease can be caused due to a different number of reasons, such as bacterial infection, ingestion of a toxic substance, cancer of the liver, etc. Also, its treatment is focused on addressing the underlying cause. For instance, antibiotics can eliminate viral infection; fluid therapy can treat dehydration, and so on.
#Treatment for Kidney Disease
Your dog is suffering from kidney disease, or not can only be diagnosed by a veterinarian. In order to do it, a complete body checkup would be performed, and if the results signify that uremia is because of toxic poisoning, then those toxins would be eliminated from his body in order to cure the disease. At the same time, your role would be to take care of his diet. Fluid intake, food consumption, and nutrition are crucial when treatment is going on.
#Treatment for Gut Problem
Dogs suffering from Megaesophagus are often underweight and may require a high-calorie diet. This can be achieved by serving wet or canned food. Contact your veterinarian for a proper diet that should be given to your dog in this condition. However, if your dog is severely affected by this problem, other steps can be taken from the veterinarian.
#Treatment for Cold or Sinus Infection
Treatment of cold or sinus infection depends upon the cause of the infection that can be diagnosed through various tests that your dog’s doctor will hold. Some of the tips that can help cure the cold or sinus infection include keeping the pet’s nose clean, providing nutritious, high-quality food, increasing his water intake.
#Treatment for Oral Tumors
Oral tumors can only be cured with the help of an animal doctor, i.e., a veterinarian. One of the primary solutions for this problem is surgery which may entail extensive procedures. Other than this radiation therapy, systemic therapy can be performed as per the condition of your dog. If you think that your dog is suffering from any such problem, it is better to consult a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Products for Dog Bad Breath
#1 Premium Pet Dental Spray
Plaque starts forming on the teeth every time your dog has a meal. Later, this becomes more brutal by combining with salts present in the pet’s saliva and eventually transforming into tartar. Premium pet dental spray is a tartar control formula that uses natural extracts and ingredients to help break the tartar formed on the gum line and teeth. Plus, it is an alcohol-free product that protects the teeth and gums by guarding against bacteria. Glycerin helps make teeth stronger and controls odor.
#2 Pedigree Dentastix Medium Breed
Dentastix is effective daily dental care for your dog that is scientifically proven to help reduce tartar build-up in your dog’s teeth by up to 80%. Convenient to keep your dog’s teeth and gums strong and healthy. Only a stick of Dentastix a day is capable of keeping your dog’s mouth clean. Plus, its unique x-shape and abrasive texture help clean between teeth and down to the gum line. Add this treat to your dog’s oral care routine and see the results. It is entirely digestible and has no residue, so it can be served as tasty food for a dog that can result in actual dental benefits.
#3 Arm & Hammer Ringers Dental Treats
Arm & Hammer nubbies tarter control Dog Treats is one of the effective treats for your dog health. These comprise baking soda and natural chlorophyll that will help freshen your dog’s breath and provide superior dental care. Plus, they are easily digestible so that the dogs, even with a sensitive stomach, can enjoy these yummy treats. It is one of the easiest ways to provide dental health solutions for your pet.
#4 Pet Dental Spray & Water Additive: Dog Breath Freshener
Essential Values 2-in-1 pet dental spray is a powerful formula that can instantly cure your dog’s bad breath. This breath freshener helps to transform bad and stinky breath into fresh breath. Also, it helps to fight and slow down the process of gum-related problems that your dog may suffer. It is absolutely safe for your pet as it is made from good quality material. Just make sure to keep away from the items or products which may cause damage to this product.
#5 Dental Fresh Water Additive
Dental Fresh Water Additive is one of the leading pet dental supplements for dogs and cats that can help you to cure your dog’s bad breath, plaque, and tartar. Being a unique self-regulating formula that activates, releases, and destroys lousy breath-causing germs, this water additive is safe and beneficial for everyday use. Simply add this to your pet’s water bowl daily to get the best results.
#6 Vet’s Best Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste
This dog dental care kit contains high-quality products blended with natural ingredients that will help you take care of your dog’s dental hygiene. Regular brushing your dog’s teeth with toothpaste will help prevent the build-up of tartar and keep your dog’s breath clean and fresh. It will improve the overall dental hygiene of your dog.
#7 Petlab Co. Dental Wash
Petlab Co. Dental Wash is a mouthwash and teeth cleanser that provides a convenient and easy way to keep your dog’s teeth and gums clean and healthy. It is a tasteless dental water solution comprising sodium benzoate and sodium bicarbonate that promote normal periodontal health. You just have to add a small amount to your dog’s water each day to support your dog’s gum hygiene and also to keep your dog’s teeth healthy and clean.
Natural Alternatives for Dog Bad Breath
#1 Carrots + Apples
Carrots and apples can act as the best options for your dogs, especially when it comes to his oral hygiene. Crunching on these can prevent plaque build-up as well as keeps his breath fresh. It is one of the best natural and healthy alternatives that can help to cure dog bad breath.
#2 Apple Cider Vinegar
Are you a health-conscious person? Then apple cider vinegar must be on your diet list but do you know it can be helpful for your dog too? Just a teaspoon of it in your dog’s water bowl can be adequate to lap up better breath. Actually, apple cider vinegar kills the bacteria that cause bad breath as it consists of a high concentration of malic and acetic acid. Plus, it is also rich in several minerals such as calcium, potassium, and magnesium that support the overall health of your dog’s mouth.
#3 Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is preferred by many persons due to different reasons. It has so many advantages that can be advantageous for your dog also. It contains antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-fungal properties that help to reduce the bacteria in your dog’s mouth. A few spoonful of this oil to your dog’s food can help fight bacteria and result in a refreshing, nutty smell.
#4 Mint
Mint is one of the leading ways to say goodbye to your dog’s bad breath if it has been caused due to indigestion or bacteria in his gut. It is one of the practical solutions that promote healthy digestion and soothe the stomach. This is because it comprises of a green pigment known as chlorophyll, which has natural healing abilities. To obtain the results, you just have to sprinkle some fresh mint leaves into your dog’s food in the morning and night.
#5 Yogurt
Yogurt acts as an antidote to the bacteria that is known to cause bad breath, and it can actually reduce the bacteria if consumed twice a day. So, you can help your dog to fight the foul smell by just mixing the yogurt in his food in the morning and night. Also, it will help your dog to have stronger teeth, and a healthier mouth as yogurt is also a good source of calcium.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1 Is bad breath in dogs is a sign of illness?
It is not necessary that bad breath in a dog is due to some illness only. It may also happen because your dog has eaten something icky. However, if this bad odor stays regularly, it can be a sign of any health issue, and different health issues that can cause this bad breath have been explained in this blog. Please go through them and try to discover the reason behind your dog’s bad breath.
Q2 What can I give my dog for bad breath at home?
There are many things that you can give your dog to avoid bad breath, such as mint, carrots, apple slices, etc. Simple alternatives that can help your dog to fight bad breath have been mentioned in this article which also explains the way to add these items to your dog’s food.
Q3 Why does my dog’s breathe smell so bad?
There are different reasons that can cause a dog bad breath smell, such as gum problem, diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, gut issues, and this can also drive just because your dog has consumed some icky food item. Plus, it can also happen because of some toxic substance.
Thus, it would be best if you do not ignore your dog bad breath and contact the veterinarian as soon as possible. He is the only one who can help you to discover the real reason that lies behind your dog’s bad breath. Once the cause is uncovered, do not delay the treatment as later on, it can prove more dangerous to your dog’s health.
Q4 How can I get rid of my dog’s bad breath?
Typically, the solution of overcoming your dog’s bad breath depends upon the solution of the cause. This bad breath can cause due to many different reasons. Once the reason is discovered, you can know how to get rid of your dog bad breath, as once the cause is treated, the bad odor will vanish automatically. However, there are some available alternatives that you can follow to get rid of your dog’s bad breath, such as making him eat a carrot, apple, adding apple cider vinegar, coconut oil, mint leaves to his food.
Also, there are different products that can help you get rid of this bad breath, such as PETVEDA Ayurvedic Fresh Tartar Remover Spray, Pedigree Dentastix Medium Breed, Caredom Oral Spray Mint Mouth Freshner, ProDen PlaqueOff Powder, Trixie Dog Dental Hygiene Kit, etc. You can also try these to prevent and cure dog bad breath.
Conclusion
Your dog can be the only one on earth who loves you more than he loves himself. So, try to take care of him as much as you can. There are many things that he cannot express, but as a dog parent, it’s your responsibility to understand his joys and sorrows. One of such things is dog bad breath. Being a dog owner, you would love to take your adorable one in your arms, but his stinky and foul breath can stop you by doing this, and you should not avoid this.
In this blog, different possible reasons have been explained that can cause this horrifying lousy breath, and if you have read those, you would have already understood why you should not ignore this situation of your dog and also what you can do to overcome this problem. There is a famous saying: “Dogs do speak but to those who listen.” So, listen to your dog and help him to live happily as he is the one who does not leave any stone unturned to make you happy.
