If your furry friend has unpleasant breath, you may be curious about the reasons behind it. Fortunately, our vets in Danbury can provide insight into the causes of bad breath in dogs, as well as ways to prevent it.
The Causes of Bad Breath in Dogs
Have you ever come across the phrase 'dog breath' that describes an unpleasant smell? This term refers to the bad breath that dogs sometimes have. It is normal for dogs to have a specific odor on their breath, which comes from their diet, lifestyle, or playing with toys. However, the smell can get intense and worry dog owners with a strong sense of smell.
It's essential to note that the bad smell is not always normal and can indicate an underlying health problem that requires treatment. Some of the conditions that can cause bad breath in dogs include liver disease, kidney disease, and oral health issues.
Therefore, if you notice that your dog's breath smells bad, it's best to schedule an appointment with your vet to diagnose the underlying cause and begin treatment as soon as possible.
Kidney Disease
If your dog's breath smells like urine or feces, it may indicate that they have eaten poop (which you should investigate separately) or a kidney problem.
When your dog's kidneys don't function properly in filtering and processing toxins and waste materials, it may trigger a buildup of harmful substances in their body and result in foul breath.
This not only affects their breath but also their overall health. If you observe additional symptoms of kidney disease in your dog, such as excessive drinking, vomiting, diarrhea, blood in urine, and a loss of appetite, contact your veterinarian right away.
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 a liver disease at the root cause of their symptoms. This condition requires urgent veterinary care.
Oral Health Issues
Poor oral hygiene is often the root cause of foul breath in canines, attributed to dental problems like tooth decay, gum disease, and mouth infections. Whether it's caused by any of these ailments or not, the buildup of bacteria and food particles in your furry friend's mouth, if not regularly brushed away, can lead to plaque formation and an unpleasant odor.
If your dog's breath smells a little bit, it is likely caused by emerging oral health issues. If these issues aren't treated by a veterinarian, the smell will become much stronger and your pet's oral health and wellbeing will continue to decline.
How to Treat Bad Breath in Dogs
If your dog has bad breath, it could be a sign of an underlying health condition. It's important to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to diagnose the problem and discuss treatment options.
Bad breath is not normal and could be caused by serious health issues that could impact your dog's life. Once the underlying problem is successfully treated, the bad breath should go away. Don't ignore changes in your dog's breath and seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.
The treatments your vet provides you with could consist of prescription medications, specialized diets, therapies, and even surgeries depending on what part of their body is affected and the severity of the condition. Your vet will be able to advise you on what the best course of treatment will be for your pup's bad breath.
What Can I Do To Prevent My Dog's Breath From Stinking?
One of the best ways you can help prevent your dog from developing bad breath is to ensure that they get the oral hygiene care they need every day in addition to annual professional dental cleanings.
It is advisable to brush your dog's teeth daily, starting from when they are young, to accustom them to the experience. If your pup is unable to tolerate brushing, consider providing them with dental chews or dog food that promotes oral health.
It is recommended to consult your vet on the best oral health products for your dog to prevent bad breath.
Additionally, it is important to be mindful of the substances in your home that could lead to internal organ failure or diseases that affect your dog's liver or kidneys. Keep items such as human medication, common houseplants, and foods that are toxic to pets out of reach.
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.