Bad breath in dogs can be caused by several reasons, with poor hygiene being the main one. This is because the accumulation of food in the mouth encourages the proliferation of bacteria that form plaque, resulting in the unpleasant smell.
It is important to remember that your pet’s smelly mouth can also be related to poor nutrition and health problems. For this reason, it is important that you pay attention to this issue and take care of your pet’s oral hygiene.
Do you have questions about how to do this correctly? Follow this post and check out 6 tips on how to eliminate the unpleasant smell from your pet’s mouth.
Why do dogs have bad breath?
The main cause of bad breath in dogs is a lack of proper hygiene, which can result in problems with your dog’s oral health. Tartar buildup and plaque buildup are the most common reasons for bad breath.
However, this is not the only cause of bad breath. There are some diseases that can cause an unpleasant smell in the animal’s mouth, such as poor kidney and liver function. The same goes for gastrointestinal problems and diabetes.
In these cases, it is important to note what other different signs have appeared with the bad breath. Changes in stool and urine, lack of appetite, vomiting, hair loss, weight loss and other symptoms may suggest a problem that goes beyond the bad smell in the mouth.
How do I know if my dog has bad breath?
The best way to tell if your pet has bad breath is to smell its mouth. If the unpleasant odor persists for several days, it is important to take your pet to a veterinarian to assess your dog’s health and identify the causes of dog breath.
How to solve bad breath in dogs?
By identifying the possible reasons for the appearance of oral odors in dogs, it is possible to adopt some essential care to promote the health of your pet’s mouth.
Next, check out 6 tips that make a difference in getting rid of bad breath in dogs!
1. Clean your pet’s mouth properly
Daily brushing is a fundamental step in preventing plaque build-up and combating bad breath. After all, this will prevent the proliferation of bacteria and prevent the formation of tartar that causes bad breath.
The ideal is to start this habit when your dog is still a puppy so that he or she can get used to the routine. This way, it will be easier for you to perform the task on a daily basis, without causing your dog to feel strange.
In addition, brush your pet’s teeth with light, circular movements, remaining patient if he or she shows resistance. Avoid acting abruptly so that your pet does not associate this with a bad experience.
2. Buy the right toothpaste and toothbrush
It is important to note that the oral hygiene products you use are not recommended for your pet. These formulas are developed for human use only and contain components such as fluoride, which are harmful and prohibited for pets .
Therefore, you should buy a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically designed for dogs, which have a shape and composition suitable for them. In addition, they can contain attractive flavors, such as chicken and beef.
You can also treat your dog’s bad breath with home remedies. Carrot snacks, for example, can help reduce plaque.
An important precaution before using products is to carefully read the information on the label. This way, you can achieve better results when brushing your teeth.
3. Offer treats or toys to prevent tartar
There are several dog treats created specifically to help remove tartar. Some of them contain minerals in their formula that prevent the proliferation of bacteria that form plaque.
Toys made in special shapes are also recommended for cleaning teeth and strengthening dogs’ gums.
4. Improve your diet
Poor nutrition is also a factor that can result in bad breath in dogs. Leftover food and wet food, for example, cause residue to accumulate on the teeth more easily. Therefore, dry food is the most recommended.
5. Invest in specific products
Regardless of the product you choose to combat bad breath, it is essential to choose items specifically designed for dogs. This way, you ensure the necessary adaptation for your pet’s health and avoid injuries or any discomfort.
It is also worth using rewards to encourage your dog to help with grooming. Offering treats, such as dog treats , can make the experience more enjoyable and make the process easier.
6. Take it to the vet
You can’t forget to take the essential care: take your dog to the vet. With the help of a professional, it is possible to examine the true causes and provide the appropriate treatment for bad breath.
Furthermore, since bad breath can be a symptom of other diseases, it is important for a professional to assess the animal’s health. This will allow for an early diagnosis and prevent the worsening of potential health problems.
How to prevent bad breath in dogs?
To keep your dog free from bad breath, it is important to ensure proper hygiene on a daily basis. In addition to making it easier to monitor your pet’s mouth, preventing the formation of plaque will also prevent periodontal disease.
If your dog is very resistant to brushing, start by offering alternatives, such as treats, biscuits or toys designed to prevent tartar build-up.
Once your dog has gained his trust, try using a gauze pad dipped in dog toothpaste. As he gets used to it, you can start brushing his teeth with a toothbrush, holding it in the same position as a pen, using gentle movements.
In short, bad breath in dogs is not limited to the unpleasant odor coming from the mouth. Lack of care can result in inflammation and diseases caused by bacteria. In addition to brushing your dog’s teeth, it is essential to provide a balanced, quality diet to help maintain the health of your dog’s body and prevent the problem.