Why Does Dog Breath Stink?
Bad breath is often a sign of poor dental hygiene. Canine dental care has improved significantly in recent years, with many veterinarians recommending yearly dental examinations and routine cleanings instead of just extracting teeth when they become a problem.
The condition of a dog’s mouth can tell us a lot about their overall health. Bad breath is one way that vets can diagnose certain problems.
Here are the most common reasons why dogs have bad breath:
Gum Disease
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is a common sign of periodontal disease in dogs. Dogs with malaligned or crooked teeth are at higher risk of developing dental disease, but most dogs will have plaque buildup on their teeth at some point. Periodontal disease happens when an overgrowth of bacteria leads to inflammation of the gums. Left unchecked, this results in stinky breath.
Kidney Disease
Dogs with kidney disease have difficulty filtering toxins out of their body, so they build up in their bloodstream. This buildup can cause a dog’s breath to smell like ammonia, and it’s a sign that the kidneys aren’t functioning properly. Bad breath from kidney disease will also cause ulcers in the mouth.
Foreign Body
Dogs who like to chew on things are at risk of getting foreign bodies stuck in their mouths. Cloth materials from toys or loose strings from ropes can get wedged between the teeth or stick to the roof of their mouth. Splinters from sticks may get stuck under the tongue or inside the cheek where you can’t see them easily. If a foreign body is causing your dog’s bad breath, it will usually be accompanied by vomiting or a loss of appetite.
Liver Disease
Stinky breath combined with yellowing of the skin and eyes is an indication that your dog’s liver is the cause. Liver disease also causes inappetence, vomiting, and weight loss. Much like kidney disease, liver disease causes a build-up of toxins in your dog’s body, which can lead to bad breath.
Diabetes
Untreated or poorly managed diabetes causes a build-up of molecules called ketone bodies. Ketones smell sweet, like acetone, and this smell is given off in the breath.
Eating Non-Food Items
Some plants can cause a rotting or rancid smell to dog breath. Even if the item isn’t toxic, you may smell what your dog has eaten on their breath. Puppies are often inclined to eat dog feces or cat litter. If they don’t vomit it back up, this will often be present on their breath.
Dietary Deficiencies
Dogs who eat home-cooked or raw diets often have smelly breath as these types of food disrupt the normal bacteria balance in their gut. Raw diets can contribute to the overgrowth of Salmonella bacteria, which in turn causes bad breath.
How to Get Rid of Stinky Dog Breath
The first step in curing your dog’s bad breath is to get them a dental exam. A veterinary professional can detect whether your dog is suffering from dental disease, gingivitis, or something more serious.
If your dog is prone to dental disease, you may need to have routine cleaning done to remove tartar and plaque formations from the teeth. Here are some other ways you can improve your dog’s oral health:
Regular Teeth Brushing
Daily or even weekly brushing is the most effective way to prevent plaque buildup on your dog’s teeth.
Dental Treats
Dental chews and treats help to physically remove plaque from the teeth through chewing. Some also contain additives that help reduce bacteria in the mouth and promote a healthy oral environment.
Feed a Diet that Promotes Oral Health
Using large-sized kibble with a coarse texture helps to scrape the sides of the teeth while your dog eats. This prevents a buildup of plaque.
Conclusion
Dog breath can have an unpleasant odour for a variety of reasons, including poor dental hygiene, health conditions, and diet. Regular dental check-ups, proper dental care, and a healthy diet can help reduce and prevent bad breath in dogs.
If your dog’s breath has a persistent foul odour, it’s best to consult a veterinarian, as it could be a sign of a more serious underlying health issue. By addressing the root cause of bad breath, you can keep your dog’s breath fresh and maintain their overall health and well-being.
