How do I fix my dogs bad breath?

10 ways to fix your dogs bad breath.

1. Change your dogs food. The number one cause of bad breath in dogs is dental disease. Generally dry kibble is better for your dogs teeth as the chewing action cleans the teeth while they eat. Wet food can be more likely to encourage microbial overgrowth in the mouth and contribute to dental disease. Consider swapping to a high quality dog food such as hills science diet or dental specific food such hills dental diet.
2. Brush your dogs teeth. Believe it or not this is the best way to prevent dental disease and bad breath in your dog. Dog specific toothbrushes and toothpastes are available. Ideally you should brush your dogs teeth every day. Check our video on how to clean your pets teeth or chat to one of our knowledgeable staff for more information.
3. Make sure your dog has access to plenty of clean fresh water. Hydration is very important for oral hygiene and overall health in your dog.
4. Try dental chews. At companion animal hospital we like the oravet chews. These freshen the breath and clean the teeth while your dog chews on them.
5. Try oral rinses or water additives. We like ‘hexarinse’ which can be used like a mouth wash, as well as the ‘aquadent’ which can be added to your dogs water. These freshen the breath and help prevent microbial growth and dental disease.
6. Avoid giving bones. If your dog is the type to bury their bones in the garden, and then dig them up later this can be a major contributor to bad breath. If you do give bones, take them away before your dog is able to bury them in the yard.
7. Consider a professional dental scale and polish by your veterinarian. Here at companion animal hospital we offer free dental checks to help you decide whether this would be beneficial for your pet.
8. Have a health check up with your veterinarian. Sometimes bad breath can indicate an underlying medical condition. For example animals with kidney disease may have high levels of urea in the blood which can be smelt when it is breathed out. After taking a history and physical exam, our vet will be able to advise whether a blood test or other further investigation may be warranted.
9. Try giving hard chew toys such as kongs which can clean the teeth and mouth as the dog plays.
10. Try a plaque reducing powder. We like the plaque off powder which can be sprinkled on the food too prevents calculus build up.

Want to have me check your pet’s teeth for free? Book an appointment with me online now

To learn more about dental disease visit companionanimalvet.com.au.