Thu. Mar 28th, 2024

Do you shy away from your dog when they come in for a snuggle, or do you have to apologise to visitors because of the odour?

Dogs often have bad breath, especially as they become older, and this is often a symptom of more significant health problems. In this article, I will do my best to describe the possible causes of your dog’s bad breath and provide solutions.

What factors bring about canine stinky breath?

Our canine companions often have mildly dog bad breath, which is why the phrase “dog breath” is so commonly used to describe something slightly unappealing.

Although it’s natural for your dog to have a slight odour on their breath after eating, playing with toys, and living their life, this odour may sometimes build to the point where it drives away all but the most courageous dog owners.

While it’s tempting to ignore your dog’s stinky breath, it’s important to know that it’s usually an indicator of a more serious health problem. Many factors might contribute to your dog’s poor breath, but renal illness, liver disease, and oral health problems are the most prevalent.

Urologic Disorders

Bad breath that smells like faeces or urine could be an indication that your dog has ingested faeces or pee (something you should investigate on your own) or that they are experiencing kidney problems.

If your dog’s kidneys aren’t doing their job, harmful chemicals and waste products could be building up in the dog’s system, leading to poor breath and other health problems.

Liver Illness

A liver condition could be the reason of your dog’s recent poor breath and other troubling symptoms, such as vomiting and diarrhoea.

Conditions of the Mouth and Teeth

Oral health issues, which can include everything from tooth decay and gum disease to oral infections, are a leading cause of bad breath in canines.

Regardless of the root of the problem, your dog’s breath will become increasingly unpleasant if you don’t periodically remove the plaque and food particles that have accumulated in his mouth.

Emerging oral health disorders are likely to blame if your dog has slightly smelly breath. However, if you don’t take care of them, the odour will only get worse and your pet’s oral health and welfare will continue to deteriorate.

What Can Be Done About a Dog’s Bad Breath?

Your dog’s treatment options will be heavily influenced by the underlying cause of their bad breath. Since foul breath is a symptom and not a cause of an underlying health condition, it should go away after the underlying problem is resolved.

However, you shouldn’t automatically presume the cause or normalcy of a change in your dog’s breath odour. It’s important to get your dog to the vet ASAP for an inspection and diagnosis, as there are a variety of potentially life-threatening conditions that can cause bad breath.

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Your veterinarian may recommend a course of treatment that includes medication, a specific diet, therapy, or even surgery, depending on the affected body system and the severity of your pet’s disease.

Your dog’s bad breath may be a symptom of a more serious health problem, and your doctor can help you figure out the best way to treat it.

How Can I Remove the Dog’s Bad Breath?

While you can’t treat kidney or liver disease at home, you can help treat or prevent your dog’s bad breath by giving them the daily and annual oral hygiene care they require.

Daily tooth brushing is essential for your dog’s oral health, and it’s best to start the habit when your pup is still young.

Dogs can benefit from a broad variety of dental chews and dog food that is specifically formulated to encourage oral health if you are unable to learn your dog to tolerate brushing.

Find out from your vet what they prescribe for your dog’s oral health and freshening his breath.

There are also a few simple things you can do to assist your dog avoid the underlying causes of foul breath, like internal organ failure or disease affecting the liver or kidneys.

It’s important to remember that many human foods, plants, and medicines are perfectly safe for human consumption but can be fatal to pets. Keep your dog safe from potential organ damage by being aware of and securing any potentially hazardous substances in your home.

Please be aware that the content of this page is for educational purposes only and is not meant to replace professional veterinary care. Get an appointment with your vet for a proper diagnosis of your pet’s illness.