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My Dalmatian puppy has metallic breath. Is it kidney failure?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dalmatian | Male | unneutered | 3 months and 22 days old

Good evening, I have a male 17 week old Dalmatian who is in good health and of a good weight. I have noticed recently his breath smelling quite metallic. I googled what this could indicate and it mentioned kidney failure and a toxin build up in the kidneys. I am very aware of Dalmatians struggling in this respect due to having only one kidney. Can you advise whether the information I have read is correct, and what other reason there could be for metallic breathe please? Many thanks I’m advance

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By C. Rathjens, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 3rd, 2019

You have some correct and some incorrect information. Dalmatians have two kidneys, but are prone to a particular type of bladder stone called urate bladder stones (the result of a genetic abnormality that causes a defect in the metabolism of uric acid). However this bladder stone wouldn't cause a metallic smell. Kidney failure causes a particular smell, but for a healthy 3 month old, I'm really not worried about kidney failure. I would actually be most concerned about intestinal parasites in a pup or maybe some blood from teeth falling out. I'd recommend a vet visit since it's a new change and bring a fresh stool sample.

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    Answered By Dr. Macartney, BVet Med, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 29th, 2019

    First of all congratulations on adding adorable Trudee to your life. You are right that a metallic odour to dog breath can indicate kidney issues, however if Trudee is perfectly well otherwise I would not assume this is the cause. There are several causes of foul breath in dogs including dental disease, tartar build-up or in puppies chewing /eating things they shouldn’t. I would start by purchasing a pet safe toothbrush and toothpaste and try to brush her teeth a few times a week. Also ensure she has a constant source of fresh water. If Trudee hasn’t been seen by a veterinarian recently, you still notice the odour, you notice any other signs that there could be a problem such as lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea, or inappetance I would take her in for a check-up. The vet can take a blood sample to analyse her liver function if concerned. I hope this was helpful and please post any further questions you may have.

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