Stinky Dog Breath: Causes and Solutions

Stinky Dog Breath: Causes and Solutions

Most dog parents who welcome their pup’s kisses will agree that bad dog breath is quite the vibe kill. It’s also a cause for concern, as a stinky breath can indicate the presence of underlying health problems. Read on to find what could be causing your dog’s stinky breath and how you can freshen up on their dental care.

1. They ate something smelly

Our Dogs are natural explorers and are heavily reliant on their noses, which pick up strong and sometimes smelly scents. They are usually inclined to eat smelly items such as rotting food or fecal matter, which results in foul breath and could make them sick.

Solution: Keep an eye on your dog and the area they explore. Try to clear out or secure garbage bins and bags to lessen their chances of ingesting something that has gone bad.

2. Bad oral hygiene

For the most part, a dog’s stinky breath is directly tied to some form of periodontal disease. A buildup of plaque and tartar leads to the development of bacteria that cause bad breath. Smaller dogs have smaller teeth which are more susceptible to build-up, but generally bad oral hygiene can lead to periodontal disease. At its worst, bad oral hygiene can result in retracted gums, cavities, and inflamed gums.

Solution: Have your dog’s teeth cleaned regularly by your vet, maybe have a go at brushing them yourself with a toothbrush and toothpaste made for dogs.

3. Underlying Disease

Bad breath can be a symptom of diabetes, kidney disease, or liver disease. If your dog’s smelly breath has a fruity scent to its most likely diabetes, if it reeks of urine, it could be kidney disease, and if the bad breath is coupled with vomiting and yellowish gums, they may have liver disease.

Solution: If you pick up on any of these signs, see your veterinarian for confirmation.

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