How to Get Rid of Stinky Dog Breath
- by Rufus and Coco
If your canine buddy seems to be having problems with their oral hygiene and you’d like to learn how to get rid of stinky dog breath, you’ve ended up in the right place.
In this article, we’ll go through a number of techniques you can use to minimise this (foul) event from happening, some of which are, in fact, all-natural. Keep on reading to find out more!
Eliminate the cause
Making sure that the problem that’s leading to your dog having bad breath is completely solved is the perfect way of going about things. Take your dog to the vet for a complete check-up - which should be done once or twice a year anyway - and tell them that you are feeling concerned about your pooch’s oral health.
Some of the most common health conditions that also cause bad breath are the following:
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes
- Digestive issues like diarrhea and vomiting, which could be associated with unbalanced gut microbiota and oral microbiota
Other health problems that can lead to bad breath in dogs are bowel obstructions and acid reflux, although they tend to happen more rarely than those that we have mentioned above.
The point is that if your dog gets the right treatment for the primary condition, bad breath will go away as a result of being a secondary symptom of the said medical issue.
Use the right products
Vets recommend brushing your dog’s teeth on a regular basis, whether that means every day or once every two to three days. Unfortunately, most pet parents loathe the task, and so do their canine companions.
But you can also make both of your lives easier with the right products. Use a pet-safe toothpaste, but steer clear of one containing peppermint if your dog hates the stuff. These days, there are even bacon-flavoured toothpaste varieties available, so why not give one of those a shot?
You can also try our Breath Buddy, a safe water additive, made with natural ingredients and that does wonders when it comes to promoting fresh breath and supporting healthy gums and teeth.
Another product that can improve your dog’s breath is our Clean & Chew Dental Toy. Being designed with ridges and fibres, the toy removes your dog’s tartar buildup. Plus, it can be cleaned conveniently and effectively with just warm water and mild eco-friendly detergent.
Natural solutions to your problem
Coconut oil
Coconut has antibacterial properties, which is why it can reduce the number of germs inside your dog’s mouth. You can simply use it instead of traditional doggy toothpaste, and chances are, your pooch is going to love the taste and, more importantly, the feel of it in their mouth.
Carrots
If your pet loves crunchy snacks, carrots can be a good option for eliminating tartar buildup. Not only are carrots capable of indirectly ‘brushing’ your dog’s teeth, but they’re also rich in vitamin A, so they can prevent eye health issues when your dog becomes a senior.
Probiotics
Probiotics can improve your dog’s gut health. Since bad breath can be caused by gastrointestinal conditions, improving your dog’s intestinal flora can minimise bad breath incidents.
Apple cider vinegar
While vinegar is an amazing natural disinfectant, the issue with it is that not all dogs love it. If you are lucky enough to be the pet parent of one that appreciates the tangy smell, adding a small amount to your canine friend’s water can improve their breath.
Preventing bad breath in dogs
Gum disease can lead to a number of dangerous conditions, many of which can threaten your dog’s life. If your dog has poor oral hygiene or develops periodontal disease, they might be more likely to develop heart issues as they grow older.
Make sure to regularly brush your dog’s teeth with dog-safe toothpaste and a convenient and easy-to-use brush.
If you notice any changes in the way their breath smells, look for signs of gum health problems or gum inflammation. Take your dog to the vet if you suspect that your dog has a tooth problem.
If you’ve ever had a toothache before, you probably know how your canine friend is feeling, and it’s anything but pleasant.
Switching your dog's chew toys on a regular basis can prevent boredom and can help with oral health. Slightly abrasive treats might work, too, but most dogs gobble them down fast, so they can’t remove tartar buildup that well.
Ultimately, while dealing with your dog's oral hygiene may not be your favourite task, it is important that this aspect of your pooch's health is never overlooked.
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- dog
- grooming
- health-tips
- how to help
- tips