Why does my dog have bad breath?
While "dog breath" is a common phrase, a healthy dog's mouth shouldn't actually smell unpleasant. If your dog has persistent bad breath (halitosis), it is usually a sign that their oral health needs a bit of attention.
Understanding what causes bad breath in dogs and finding the right dental treats can help keep your canine companion healthy and their kisses fresh.
Common causes of bad breath in dogs
There are several factors that can contribute to a sudden or gradual change in your dog's breath:
Plaque and Tartar Build up: This is the most common culprit. When bacteria multiply in the mouth, they form plaque, which quickly hardens into tartar if not cleaned away.
Periodontal Disease: Left untreated, tartar build-up leads to inflamed gums (gingivitis) and dental disease, which traps bad smelling bacteria.
Dietary changes: Introducing a new dog food can sometimes alter the scent of your dog’s breath, particularly if the new formula has a stronger aroma than their previous diet.
Grooming habits: Most dogs lick their fur, paws, and rear ends as part of their daily grooming routine, which naturally transfers unpleasant odours to their mouth.
When to see a vet: As a general rule, mild bad breath isn't a direct indicator of a dietary problem. However, if you're worried, we'd always recommend a chat with your vet.
How to get rid of your dog's bad breath
Managing your dog's oral health requires a mix of routine mechanical cleaning and daily preventative care.
1. Brushing their teeth
Regularly brushing your dog’s teeth with a dog-safe toothpaste is the single most effective way to eliminate plaque before it hardens into stubborn tartar.
2. Use targeted dental treats and chews
Dental chews are an excellent, low-stress addition to your dog's daily routine. They work through mechanical abrasion - scraping the teeth as your dog chews - to help reduce plaque accumulation.
We offer several options specifically formulated to fight plaque and freshen breath:
Fresh Chews: Formulated with active ingredients to target bad breath at the source.
Dental Dailies: Perfect for daily maintenance, designed to reach the hard-to-clean back teeth.
We don't sell toothpaste for dogs but our fresh chews and dental dailies help to keep those doggy breaths fresh!
More advice
For more detailed advice on protecting your dog's smile, check out the following articles:
Your Dog's Dental Health: Everything You Need to Know