If your dog has bad breath, you’re not alone. While it’s easy to dismiss it as just bad dog breath, an unusually strong or foul odor can actually be a red flag for some common health issues.

While a little odor is to be expected from your dog, a much more persistent and strong odor, like rotting fish, sour milk, or worse, calls for a much more serious concern. Bad breath, or halitosis, can come as a result of plaque buildup, infections, or even something more serious like kidney or liver disease.

But don’t lose hope yet. 

You don’t have to just suffer through the stink. In this guide, we’ll talk about everything you need to know if your dog has bad breath, from causes to quick fixes and things to take note of.

Common Causes of Bad Breath in Dogs

If your dog has bad breath, start by figuring out why. A little stink after a meal or a long nap is normal, but persistent, foul-smelling breath usually means something else is going on. Here are the most common reasons why your pup’s breath might be clearing the room:

Poor Oral Hygiene and Dental Disease

Dental problems are the number one cause of bad breath in dogs. This typically comes from a lack of cleaning and overall poor oral hygiene. Just like humans, dogs need regular teeth cleaning to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. When bacteria accumulate in their mouths, it can lead to gum disease, infections, and even tooth decay, all of which cause bad breath.

Signs of dental disease in dogs include:

• Yellow or brown tartar buildup on teeth.

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums.

• Difficulty chewing or using just one side of the mouth.

• Pawing at the mouth or excessive drooling.

Diet and Eating Habits

A dog’s diet plays a major role in its breathing. Certain foods, like wet or canned foods, can contribute to stronger mouth odors than dry kibble, which does not easily stick to the teeth. However, the bigger concern is what dogs get into outside of their regular meals.

Certain treats and foods with strong odors, like fish-based diets, can leave a lasting smell in their mouths. Additionally, some dogs have an unusual habit of eating things they shouldn’t, like garbage, decomposing food, or even feces. 

Foreign Objects

If a dog’s breath has suddenly become unbearable, it’s worth checking their mouth for any bone fragments or foreign objects that may have become lodged in their teeth or gums. In some cases, dogs may get splinters from bones or chew toys stuck in their gums. These injuries can cause infections that worsen their breath over time.

Signs include:

• Pawing at the mouth.

• Excessive drooling.

• Pain and discomfort.

• Difficulty eating.

  
  

Health Conditions

If your dog has bad breath, this isn’t always caused by dental problems. Halitosis can also be a subtle sign of something more serious. Certain diseases affect a dog’s metabolism and organ function, leading to distinct changes in the way their breath smells. In these cases, treating the condition is the only way to resolve the bad breath. 

Some of the common health conditions that can cause bad breath in dogs include:

• Diabetes. Canine diabetes causes a sweet, fruity breath odor because of the buildup of ketones in the body. 

• Kidney disease. Kidney disease can cause a dog’s breath to smell like ammonia or urine as their body struggles to eliminate waste properly. 

• Liver disease. Dogs with liver disease can have extremely foul-smelling breath, sometimes accompanied by yellowing of the gums and eyes, vomiting, and a loss of appetite. 

Oral Tumors or Infections

Sometimes, persistent bad breath in dogs is caused by oral tumors, abscesses, or infections in the mouth. Tumors in the gums or on the tongue can harbor bacteria, leading to tissue decay and a rotting, putrid odor. Infections, whether from a wound, a bad tooth, or an untreated abscess, can cause similar effects.

Oral tumors often appear as swollen or discolored areas in the mouth, and they may cause difficulty chewing, excessive drooling, or bleeding. Some dogs may also develop an infection in the gumline due to an untreated dental issue or injury. 

What to Do if Your Dog Has Bad Breath?

Once you know why your dog has bad breath, the next step is fixing it. Treatment depends on the cause, whether it’s poor dental hygiene, an infection, or a more serious health condition. Addressing the root of the problem is key to getting rid of bad breath for good.

Professional Dental Cleaning

If plaque and tartar buildup are the main causes of your dog’s bad breath, professional dental cleaning is the most effective solution. Unlike at-home brushing, our vets can clean below the gumline, remove hardened tartar, and check for any dental disease or hidden infections. It’s like an all-in-one deep clean.

Treating Gum Infections and Oral Diseases

If bad breath is caused by gingivitis, periodontal disease, or oral infection, we may prescribe antibiotics, pain relief, or medicated mouthwashes to help heal the gums. In severe cases, pet surgery might be the option to remove infected tissue or abscesses.

For dogs with oral tumors, treatment depends on the type and severity. Benign growths may be removed surgically, while cancerous tumors might require more intensive treatments like radiation or chemotherapy. 

Treating Health Conditions

When bad breath is linked to an internal health condition, treating the disease itself is the only way to improve breath odor. Conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, and liver disease will make use of dietary changes, medications, and supportive care treatments.

Removing Foreign Objects or Dealing With Dietary Issues

Sometimes, bad breath is caused by something stuck in the mouth. A piece of food, a bone, or even part of a chew toy are all possible foreign objects. If this happens, our vets can safely remove the object and treat any resulting infections.

A dog’s diet is a major factor in its health. If the main cause of your dog’s bad breath is related to dietary habits, making a few changes can help. Switching to a high-quality diet and avoiding strong-smelling foods can all make a big difference when it comes to a dog’s breath. 

How to Prevent Bad Breath in Dogs?

Once you’ve tackled the issue, the best way to keep your dog’s bad breath from coming back is through regular care and smart prevention strategies. Bad breath usually results in poor dental health, so maintaining good oral hygiene is the key to keeping your dog’s mouth fresh and healthy. 

Here’s what you can do to prevent bad breath in dogs:

1. Brush Your Dog’s Teeth Regularly. Brushing and cleaning your dog’s teeth regularly is the best way to keep your dog’s breath fresh. Ideally, you should brush your teeth daily, but even a few times a week can make a big difference.
   
   

2. Feed a High-Quality Diet. Some lower-quality commercial foods contain fillers and artificial ingredients that can contribute to bad breath. Switching to a nutritious, high-protein diet with minimally processed ingredients can improve digestion and reduce mouth odor.
   
   

3. Provide Fresh Water. Dehydration can lead to dry mouth, which allows bacteria to build up and cause your dog’s bad breath. Make sure your dog always has access to clean, fresh water to keep their mouth rinsed and hydrated. If your dog doesn’t drink much water, consider adding low-sodium broth to encourage better hydration.
   
   

4. Schedule Regular Vet Checkups. Even with great home care, professional vet visits are essential for maintaining your dog’s oral and overall health. Our vets can perform regular dental checkups to make sure your dog’s oral health is in good condition.

Fresh breath and good health go paw in paw! A little care keeps your pup feeling great and smelling fresh every day.

- Dr. Paulina Czerska

Conclusion

If your dog has bad breath, get right to the issue. While the occasional odor is normal, persistent bad breath is often a bad sign. Poor oral hygiene, dietary habits, and even serious health conditions can all contribute to foul-smelling breath. The good news is that with proper care, you can take care of the problem and keep your dog’s mouth healthy.

Regular brushing at home, a balanced diet, and professional cleanings are the best ways to help if your dog has bad breath. Staying on top of your dog’s oral health not only keeps their breath fresh but also helps prevent painful dental diseases and other medical complications.