My dog's breath smells awful. What products help or what can I do?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

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  Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on November 16th, 2016

  Your dogs bad breathe is likely the result of underlying periodontal disease. Another possible cause is a kidney issue, however you will likely also be dealing with a rather sick pet (vomiting, anorexia, lethargy) if this were the cause. So the key to treating bad breathe is to treat the underlying problem. In the case of periodontal disease, a good dental cleaning by your vet is needed to remove hard tartar, clean the teeth underneath the gumline that is causing gingivitis and foul breathe. Once the source is removed then the breathe should improve dramatically. Also another beneficial treatment is to cleanse your pets mouth periodically with a pet formulated oral rinse (from your local pet store). The oral rinse helps pets with true halitosis that is not associated with any severe periodontal disease symptoms. Once your pet has a thorough teeth cleaning then it is important to brush his teeth daily (as you do) to slow tartar build-up and prevent severe periodontal disease in the future.

  

  3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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  Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

  Licensed Veterinary Technician

  Published on December 8th, 2017

  Small breeds are especially prone to developing periodontal disease. The smell may be due to infection in the mouth and under the gumline. A broken tooth, if the root is exposed, is open to infection and abscess within the tooth. Have Alvin examined by your veterinarian. A complete oral exam can confirm the diagnosis. Afterwards, a complete dental cleaning and dental xrays while under anesthesia may be done. The fractured tooth can be extracted or you can have a root canal performed. Once this is done, you may notice a positive change in Alvin's behavior and appetite. Daily brushing with a pet approved toothpaste and toothbrush will extend the amount of time between dental cleanings.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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  Answered By Mariya Gugel, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on February 14th, 2018

  Dental problems in dogs commonly arise due to increased tartar and calculus (the brown sort of stones you see on the teeth near the gums). This causes inflammation of the gumline, which can be very uncomfortable and result in serious infections. This is one of the most common conditions and typically occurs due to the fact that dog's teeth are simply not brushed as frequently as a human's. Dental cleaning under anesthesia with teeth extractions if necessary, may be needed. Other causes of dental disease include fractured teeth, retained baby teeth, and gum line recession.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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  Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

  Veterinarian

  Published on November 23rd, 2016

  Bad breath in dogs is due to a dental problem, such as severe gingivitis, a tooth root abscess, or a broken tooth. I would take Mika into the vet for an exam tomorrow. She will likely need a dental cleaning, scaling, and polishing.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful