Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog has bad breath, mucus in stool, and eats grass. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 15 lbs

My dog has very bad breath that in the last week has gotten worse, she also has had mucus in her stools. She also won't stop eating grass which she has never done before. She is active at times and at other times she doesn't want to do anything but sleep. She is 8yrs old and a boston terrier/ chihuahua mix. My dad and mom think she might have cancer but I won't have money to see a vet for a week. Any advice would be great.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on April 28th, 2018

Poor Lucy, if her breath has very suddenly gotten worse then it would suggest to me she has either developed a bad mouth infection or is dehydrated. Considering she also has mucus in her faeces and s eating grass it sounds like she may have a gastrointestinal upset which makes me think dehydration is likely. There are always many possibilities for a gastrointestinal issues, cancer is a possibility but it is far down the lost when compared to more common issues such as indiscretion or infection. It does sound like she is pretty poorly though, to be honest with you aside from encouraging her to eat and drink you can do little for her at home. If she is unwell as an owner you have a duty of care to get her medical attention so I would encourage you to try and find a way to get her to a vet asap. Many simply treated ailments can become much more serious if left too long.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Poor Lucy, if her breath has very suddenly gotten worse then it would suggest to me she has either developed a bad mouth infection or is dehydrated. Considering she also has mucus in her faeces and s eating grass it sounds like she may have a gastrointestinal upset which makes me think dehydration is likely. There are always many possibilities for a gastrointestinal issues, cancer is a possibility but it is far down the lost when compared to more common issues such as indiscretion or infection. It does sound like she is pretty poorly though, to be honest with you aside from encouraging her to eat and drink you can do little for her at home. If she is unwell as an owner you have a duty of care to get her medical attention so I would encourage you to try and find a way to get her to a vet asap. Many simply treated ailments can become much more serious if left too long.

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored