Stinky Dog Breath – Ways to Combat the Foul Odor
Your Dog’s Bad Breath is Preventable and Treatable
Some people think that its normal for all dogs to have bad breath. However, there is really no reason why your dog cannot have fresh breath. If your dog suffers from bad breath, there’s most likely a reason for it. Here are some ways to prevent bad breath.
Effective Tips for Brushing Your Dog’s Teeth
Dogs need good dental hygiene as much as people do. They don’t usually get cavities but they are prone to plaque and tartar (which is the ugly brown build up you see on some dogs’ teeth). Plaque and tartar can lead to bad breath and more serious dental problems. You can keep your furry friend’s teeth pearly white and remove plaque with regular brushing.
Brushing your dog’s teeth is not as difficult as it may sound. There are special canine brushes angled to fit into their mouth. Some owners prefer to use small dental pads or rubber “fingers” that fit over their finger; you can then slip this little rubber piece into the dog’s mouth to do the brushing.
There are also canine toothpastes. These toothpastes come in flavors that are designed to appeal to a dog’s taste buds such as yummy peanut butter and beef. Most dogs consider these pastes to be treats so after you introduce them, it becomes easy to get your dog to open up and let you brush.
Brushing your dog’s teeth is very much like brushing your own. The only real difference is that you will need to make sure you brush far in the back of your dog’s mouth since dogs have such long, deep jaws. Make sure you brush on the sides the teeth well, too, since tooth decay also occurs in this area.
Professional Cleaning by a Veterinarian
Even with good brushing your dog will probably need to have her teeth professionally cleaned by your veterinarian at some point in her life. Good indicators that a visit to a veterinarian is required is if you notice your dog suffers bad breath regularly or refuses food. Bad breath is often an indication of a dental problem.
Fresh Mints
Your dog may also have bad breath if she’s been chewing on some bad-tasting objects. Perhaps she found something foul in the yard such as an animal carcass or garbage. Maybe she likes to eat poop? You can try to get her to stop paying attention to these nasties but, in the mean time, it will also help if you give her some better-tasting treats to chew on. Good oral chews recommended by the Veterinary Oral Health Council, such as Canine Greenies, are available.
You can also give your dog treats for good breath. There are a number of treats that claim they improve a dog’s breath. Some of them are mint-flavored or have other flavors that are more appealing to people. Try some and see if your dog likes them.
Most dogs should have pleasant breath as long as they don’t have any dental problems. The exceptions usually occur when your dog has been eating something with a bad odor or taste. If your dog’s teeth are fine and she has not been eating anything yucky, then you should consult your veterinarian as it is possible the bad breath is due to a medical condition.