Is your dog's breath unpleasantly smelly? Do you want to know the reasons behind your dog's bad breath? In this article, our veterinarians from Murfreesboro will explain why dogs can have bad breath, and provide tips on preventing it.
The Causes of Bad Breath in Dogs
Have you heard of the phrase 'dog breath' used to describe a not-so-pleasant smell? It's actually because dogs can have a slightly bad-smelling breath. It's normal for dogs to have a breath odor that comes from their lifestyle, food, or playing with toys. However, sometimes it can become really bad and worry dog owners with sensitive noses.
Instead of tolerating the awful smell, it's important to know that it's often caused by an underlying health issue that needs to be addressed. Some of the conditions that can lead to bad breath in dogs are kidney disease, liver disease, and oral health problems.
If you notice that your dog has bad breath, it's recommended to make an appointment with your veterinarian. They can diagnose the cause and start appropriate treatment as soon as possible.
Kidney Disease
Is your furry friend experiencing breath that resembles urine or feces? This could indicate that they've recently consumed poop (which requires further investigation) or it might be a sign of a kidney issue.
When your dog's kidneys fail to filter and eliminate toxins and waste substances effectively, these harmful substances can accumulate in their body. This not only negatively impacts your dog's overall health but also contributes to unpleasant breath odors.
If you observe additional signs of kidney disease in your dog, along with the bad breath, such as increased water consumption, vomiting, diarrhea, blood in urine, and decreased appetite, it is crucial to contact your veterinarian without delay.
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
Oral health problems like tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections usually cause dog's bad breath. Bacteria and food particles can accumulate in your dog's mouth over time, leading to plaque buildup and a persistent odor if regular brushing is neglected.
When your dog's breath starts to have an unpleasant smell, it indicates the presence of developing oral health issues. The smell will worsen without proper veterinary treatment, and your pet's oral health and overall well-being will deteriorate.
How to Treat Bad Breath in Dogs
Your dog's bad breath is a result of an underlying health condition. Treating that condition will help get rid of the bad breath. It's important to visit your veterinarian if you notice any changes in your dog's breath smell.
They can diagnose the problem and suggest treatment options. Don't assume that bad breath is normal for your dog, as it could be a sign of serious health issues that can affect their overall health and lifespan.
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's important to brush your dog's teeth daily, starting when they are young, to help them become accustomed to tooth brushing. If you're unable to train your pup to tolerate brushing, you can provide them with dental chews or special dog food that promotes oral health. Consult your vet to find out which oral health products they recommend for preventing bad breath in dogs.
Take simple precautions to protect your pup from organ failure or diseases that affect the liver or kidneys. Be mindful of substances in your home that can cause organ disease or failure and keep them out of reach. These substances include certain human medications, common houseplants, and foods that are safe for us but toxic for pets.
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.