Why Is My Dog’s Breath So Bad? It’s a frequently asked question by dog parents worldwide. As a dog parent, it can be easy to dismiss our dog’s bad breath as saying our dogs simply have “dog breath” but the truth is that dogs shouldn’t have “dog breath.” Bad breath in your dog is actually a sign that your dog could need veterinary attention.
Why Is My Dog’s Breath So Bad? Common Causes of “Dog Breath”
One of the most common reasons for bad breath in your dog is plaque.
Plaque can be prevented by regularly brushing your dog’s teeth at home and checking in with your vet annually for dental cleanings. You can also help to keep your dog’s teeth and gums healthy by providing them with dental toys, chews, and bones to stimulate his gums and keep plaque from building up on his teeth!
Sometimes the cause of bad breath in your dog can be more significant than a need for dental cleaning and then it may require veterinary attention. For example, cracked, chipped and broken teeth or teeth with cavities can cause a buildup of bacteria or infection. This is another reason why annual dental visits are necessary because they help to catch this type of problem and fix it before it gets out of hand. For example, a cavity may be filled rather than a whole tooth needing to be extracted!
It is important not to write off your dog’s bad breath as them “just needing their teeth brushing.” Sometimes problems can become so advanced that your dog develops an abscess which doesn’t just lead to bad breath, but it can cause a significant amount of pain and stop your dog from eating! If you notice any symptoms of tooth pain or see any dental changes when inspecting your dog’s teeth, make sure to drop in and see your vet ASAP! If you notice any large swelling in or around their mouth in addition to bad breath, visit your emergency vet.
Dental problems aren’t the only possible cause behind bad breath in dogs. There are other concerns that your veterinarian may want to investigate if your dog has bad breath that cannot be explained by their dental health. Some of these non-dental explanations for canine bad breath include other problems with the mouth or gums, concerns with internal organs, respiratory system illness or infection and gastrointestinal illness.
Canine bad breath isn’t always the result of something severe, sometimes it can be something as “simple” as a piece of food stuck in your dog’s teeth but if your dog has bad breath and you can’t remedy it with a quick inspection of their mouth and regular dental cleanings, it is always best to make an appointment with your veterinarian for a wellness check!
Why Is My Dog’s Breath So Bad? Getting Help!
If you live in the Raleigh, NC area and your dog suffers from bad breath, Leesville Animal Hospital can help! Pick up the phone and make an appointment with one of our amazing vets today by calling (919) 887-8808!
