My Dog Has Bad Breath, What Do I Do?
If your pup's kisses are more stinky than sweet, you’re not alone. Bad breath in dogs, or halitosis, is a common complaint among pet parents across Aotearoa. While a bit of doggy breath is normal, persistent bad breath can be a sign that your dog’s dental health needs some extra attention. At Petdirect, we get pet – and we’re here to help you sniff out the cause and get your dog’s oral health back on track.
What Causes Bad Breath In Dogs?
Bad breath in dogs can be caused by a range of issues, from simple plaque build-up to underlying health conditions. Here are the most common culprits:
- Dental disease: The most frequent cause of dog bad breath is poor dental hygiene. Plaque and tartar can build up and lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and smelly breath.
- Diet: Dogs that eat a diet high in soft foods or table scraps may be more prone to bad breath. Low-quality diets or foods stuck in their teeth can also contribute to odour.
- Foreign objects: Sticks, bones, or toys lodged in the mouth can trap bacteria and lead to bad breath – and discomfort.
- Underlying conditions: Sometimes persistent bad breath signals more serious issues like kidney disease, diabetes or digestive troubles. If you're concerned, it’s best to consult your vet.
Signs Your Dog Might Have Dental Issues
Because our furry friends can’t tell us when something’s wrong, it’s up to us to keep an eye out for signs of dental trouble. Besides stinky breath, look out for:
- Red or bleeding gums
- Yellow or brown buildup on teeth
- Excessive drooling or pawing at their mouth
- Difficulty eating or loss of appetite
- Changes in behaviour like irritability or lethargy
Spot any of these signs? It might be time for a professional dental check-up to ensure nothing more serious is going on.
How To Treat Bad Breath In Dogs
Thankfully, there are plenty of ways you can freshen up your dog’s breath and support their dental health — many of which are simple to work into your daily routine:
- Brush their teeth regularly: Just like us, dogs need regular brushing – ideally daily. Use a pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrush.
- Use dental chews: Chewing is great for cleaning teeth. Add in some dental treats or toys that help reduce plaque naturally.
- Add dental water additives: These are easy to mix into your dog’s drinking water and can help fight bacteria that cause bad breath.
- Try dental supplements: Products like Oxyfresh or Prozym can support oral health from the inside out.
- Opt for dental-friendly food: Switching to a science-based diet that supports dental care might be beneficial.
If the bad breath persists even after regular dental care, a visit to your vet is recommended to rule out hidden issues.
Preventing Bad Breath In The Long Term
Prevention is wag-worthy! Staying on top of your dog’s dental care is one of the best things you can do for their overall wellbeing. Here’s how to keep things fresh:
- Start dental care early: If you’ve got a pup, begin brushing their teeth early so it becomes part of their routine.
- Schedule vet check-ups: Routine visits not only catch issues early but some may include a quick oral exam.
- Chew wisely: Offer your dog high-quality chew toys that are safe and support oral hygiene.
- Stick to a healthy diet: Feed your dog quality dry dog food or options designed for dental health, like some from Hill's Science Diet or Royal Canin.
- Stay consistent: Add dental care to your daily routine to keep plaque and odour at bay.
We Get Pet – And We’ve Got Everything You Need
Doggy breath might be common, but it’s not something you have to live with. Whether you're after effective dental care products, dental-friendly treats, or oral health supplements, you can trust us to bring you the best for your best mate. And don’t forget — members of our Pet Perks loyalty programme earn rewards just for shopping smarter. Need help picking the right dental solution? Our friendly team is always here to help, because at Petdirect, we get pet.
Final Thoughts on Fixing Bad Dog Breath
If your dog’s breath is making you hold your nose, there’s usually a treatable reason behind it. With the right dental care routine, a balanced diet, and help from products designed to support fresh breath, your four-legged friend will be back to giving sweet smooches in no time.
Ready to tackle that stinky breath? Explore our full range of dog dental care essentials and keep your pup’s smile bright and healthy.