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Why does my puppy's breath smell like fish food after eating?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Bichon Frise | Male | neutered | 5 months and 6 days old | 7.8 lbs

How to get rid of your puppy’s bad breath? He currently eats Purina Pro Plan Chicken/Rice and has his teeth brushed with doggy toothpaste each night. Despite this effort he still has a lingering odor that smells somewhat “fish food” like especially after meals.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 22nd, 2018

I would guess that this is potentially food related, and if it is transient and he is doing well on his food otherwise there may not be anything to be worried about. If it bothers you, you could try changing his diet to another flavor or another brand altogether (I recommend sticking to foods by Purina, Hill's, Royal Canin, Iams or Eukanuba). You could also consider trying a probiotic supplement. Although Guido is young he could still also have a tooth problem and if the odor seems to be around all the time you may want to have your vet examine his mouth.

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