Stinky dog breath got you wincing during cuddle time? Ever wondered what causes that? Periodontal disease is the most common cause of bad breath for dogs over the age of three. Whenever a dog eats, the food mixes with the bacteria and forms plaque, which turns to tartar, and then causes an infection in the gums, which leads to bad breath. It can be the result of other medical conditions, like diabetes, gastrointestinal issues, and more.
As close as your dog loves to be to you, you will know if their breath smells gross. You want to be able to cuddle up and love your dog without wincing at your pup’s halitosis. Here are a few small tricks you can try to clean up the situation at home!
7 Tips for Managing Your Dog’s Bad Breath
Tip #1: Regular Brushing: You can try brushing your dog’s teeth yourself. They do sell dog toothpaste. If you don’t think that’s a thing you can handle, talk to your groomer. They should be able to take care of that for you.
Tip #2: Dental Chew Toys: There are plenty of toys that do double duty. Your dog can chew on the toy, and it brushes its teeth in the process! Nothing beats a multi-tasking toy!
Tip #3: Plain Yogurt: It’s perfect for you and your dog, too – unless your dog is lactose sensitive, of course. If they are safe to eat, you can add a dollop of plain yogurt to your dog’s food. Just a teaspoonful or two a day is usually enough. Make sure there are no sugar substitutes in the yogurt.
Tip #4: Dental Treats: There are specially formulated treats to deal with bad breath in dogs. Don’t discount these just because they may seem a little gimmicky. Greenies Canine Dental Chews, for example, are veterinarian approved! There are also recipes to make yourself.
Tip #5: Healthy Snacks: Carrot and apple slices are more than a nice healthy treat for your dog. They can also help prevent plaque from building up and keep their breath nice and fresh. Teething puppies love them a lot! In the summer, they can be great frozen too!
Tip #6: Lemon: Add a few drops of lemon juice to your dog’s water. The high acid in it will help combat the bacteria and freshen their breath. Nice and fresh!
Tip #7: Coconut Oil: Is there no end to the uses of coconut oil? Probably not. Add a spoonful of this antibacterial marvel to your dog’s meals to help them fight bacteria. If you choose to make an all-natural toothpaste for your dog, coconut oil is a great choice, too!
If you’ve tried some management techniques, and your dog’s breath continues to smell nasty, then you should talk to a veterinarian. There may be underlying medical conditions, or you may need a different attack plan. Either way, it’s better to get an expert opinion.