Bad breath in dogs might seem like a minor inconvenience, but when it’s your dog with the wicked breath, it’s a huge deal. While there are lots of solutions available, how do you know what works best and when to contact your vet? Here are some terrific tips to help your best friend freshen up!
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10 Tips To Prevent Bad Breath In Dogs
1. Brush Teeth Correctly
Make sure you are brushing your dog’s correctly and are doing it for about 30 seconds daily. Find out more about the right way to go about Dog Teeth Cleaning.
2. Chew and Chomp
Certain rubber toys allow you to hide cleaning treats or even dog toothpaste inside. As dogs chew on the toy, their teeth get cleaner and their breath gets fresher.
3. Visit the Vet
New studies show that 80 percent of pets have dental disease by the age of 3, with many pets showing signs of inflammation — an early sign of periodontal disease — as early as 3 months of age. Make sure you take your dog to yearly check-ups.
4. Yapping for Yogurt
Add a teaspoon or two of plain yogurt (unflavoured and without sugar substitutes e.g. Xyltiol) to your dog’s daily food allotment. However, make sure your dog isn’t lactose intolerant before trying this one.
5. Buy Special Teeth Treats
There are lots of specialised dental care treats on the market.
6. Relish Some Rawhide
As long as you keep a sharp eye on your pet while they’re indulging, rawhide bones are good for banishing plaque. Take it away as soon as it softens up.
7. Pass the Parsley
Parsley herbs, as well as dill, are antibacterial and natural breath-fresheners. Next time you feed your dog, chop some up and sprinkle it over the top of their food.
8. Use Water Additives
Water additives that fight bad breath in dogs are becoming popular with owners because of the ease of use. Bubbas Premium Pet Dental Care Water Additive, for example, works for both cats and dogs.
9. Research Dental Sealants
If you have a dog breed that’s extra susceptible to decay, ask your vet about dental sealants. They can help keep teeth and gums clean, preventing tooth decay and plaque buildup.
10. Give Them Tea
If you suspect your dog’s bad breath is due to upset tummy or indigestion, use a special tea. Make a ginger tea by putting one or two slices of fresh ginger in a cup of hot water and letting it cool down. After removing the ginger slices, give one to two teaspoons of the ginger tea to your dog.
If you’re worried about what might be causing you dog’s bad breath, visit your vet. If the above steps aren’t working, it could be a sign that they are suffering from periodontal disease, which requires treatment. Bad breath is often the first sign of canine dental disease owners recognise. Left untreated, bacteria from your pet’s mouth can lead to liver, kidney and even heart disease. So, remember, when in doubt, get it checked!
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