Are you avoiding kisses from your dog due to bad breath? Bad breath in dogs is common and could indicate health problems. Our Los Angeles County veterinarians discuss the causes of bad breath in dogs and offer guidance on prevention and treatment.
What Causes Bad Breath in Dogs?
Dog breath is a common term for bad breath in dogs, especially as they get older. While it's normal for dogs to have varying smells on their breath due to their diet or playtime, sometimes their breath can become really unpleasant.
Instead of ignoring it, it's important to know that strong bad breath in dogs often indicates a health problem. Common causes include kidney disease, liver disease, and dental issues.
Oral Health Issues
Bad breath in dogs usually stems from oral health problems, like tartar buildup, tooth decay, infections, or gum disease. These issues lead to bacteria and food particles accumulating in their mouth, forming plaque and causing an unpleasant smell. If your dog's breath is slightly off, it might indicate emerging oral health problems. Ignoring them can worsen the odor and harm your pet's overall oral health and well-being.
Kidney Disease
If your dog's breath smells like urine or poop, it could mean they've eaten poop or that their kidneys might not be healthy. Healthy kidneys are important for filtering toxins, so if they're not working well, the bad breath could be due to this buildup and could also harm your dog's health.
Liver Disease
If your dog has recently developed seriously bad breath and their new scent is accompanied by concerning symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea, they may have liver disease at the root cause of their symptoms.
How to Treat Bad Breath in Dogs?
Your dog's bad breath needs specific treatment based on its main cause. Rather than just a standalone issue, bad breath in dogs often signals an underlying health problem. Once that problem is fixed, the bad smell should go away.
Remember, if you notice any change in your dog's breath odor, don't ignore it. Take your dog to the vet promptly. Bad breath can indicate serious health problems. Your vet will provide the right treatment, which might include therapies, medicines, diets, or even surgeries, depending on the root cause and affected area.
Trust your vet to recommend the best treatment after diagnosing the cause of your dog's bad breath.
What Can I Do To Treat My Dog's Stinky Breath?
As a dog owner, you can do a few things at home to prevent your pet from getting bad breath. This involves stopping the root causes that lead to it.
To keep your dog's breath fresh, make sure they receive regular oral care. This means brushing their teeth daily and having professional dental cleanings once a year. It's best to start brushing when they're young to get them used to it. There are also special dental chews and dog foods that promote oral health.
Ask your vet for advice on oral health products to keep bad breath away.
To prevent issues like liver or kidney problems that cause bad breath, there are simple steps you can take. Some human medications, houseplants, and foods are harmful to pets. Be mindful of what's in your home and keep those substances out of your pet's reach.
By following these steps, you can help your dog avoid bad breath and potential health problems.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.