What Causes My Dog’s Bad Breath? (Suggestions for Causes and Solutions)

The Causes of Your Dog’s Bad Breath

When your dog approaches you and gives you a huge kiss, you feel as if you’ve been assaulted by a wall of foul stench. You might be wondering why your dog’s breath is so terrible. As an associate veterinarian, I’m frequently asked about canine halitosis, so you’re not alone if your pet has it.

Plaque Deposition

Plaque is one of the most prevalent causes of halitosis. Plaque refers to bacteria that live on the tooth’s enamel, which is the outer layer of the tooth.

If the plaque becomes mineralized, it becomes calculus, commonly known as tartar. Calculus is extremely difficult to break off during a dental operation under anaesthesia, and it usually necessitates the use of specific equipment.

Dental Illness

Plaque-causing bacteria can range from non-invasive and moderately irritating to bone-destroying germs that can cause significant discomfort, loose teeth, and even poor breath.

The longer the calculus is there, the more likely it is to start causing gum irritation. Gingivitis is the medical term for this condition. If left untreated, dental illness can lead to bone inflammation, which can be exceedingly dangerous and necessitate extractions.

Yucky Food

Is your dog consuming stale food or waste? As a veterinarian, I’m used to hearing from owners who say their dog has been eating excrement. Yes, it’s disgusting, but at the very least, it’s a simple problem to solve.

Other Causes of Dogs’ Bad Breath

Is halitosis caused solely by dental problems and sour food? Certainly not. There are a variety of additional factors that might be at play. Here are a few examples:

• Diseases of the metabolism (e.g., diabetes)
• Diseases of the lungs (e.g., sinus infections)
• Cancers of many sorts (cancerous tumors can cause significant inflammation and necrosis that may lead to foul odor)
• Gastrointestinal problems (e.g., a foreign body, gastritis, or a version of garbage gut)
• Skin problems may cause a number of problems (e.g., skin-fold dermatitis, which is really common on the lower mouth and jaw and can house a lot of bacteria like Pseudomonas or Staphylococcus pseudintermedius)

If you think your dog is having any of the problems outlined above, it’s time to take him to the doctor.

What Should You Do If Your Dog Has Bad Breath?

Halitosis can be caused by a variety of factors. Now, as a veterinarian, it’s my job to figure out which of the previously listed factors is causing the foul breath, because bad breath is treated differently depending on what’s causing it.

If your dog has periodontal disease, the extent of treatment will typically be determined by how far along the illness has gone. Early stages, for example, will likely simply require formal scaling and polishing, but advanced stages may entail bone loss, necessitating x-rays and maybe extractions.

Overall, if the underlying condition is treated, the prognosis for halitosis is favorable. If we’re only dealing with periodontal disease, everyday brushing and basic dental hygiene will be your secret weapons for reducing the consequences of foul breath.

Never Forget to Consult Your Veterinarian

I hope this has been of assistance. And, as usual, talk to your veterinarian about your particular pet. I wish you and your animal companions the best of luck.

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this article is accurate and truthful. It is not intended to replace veterinary medical professional diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, or formal and tailored advice. Animals displaying signs and symptoms of discomfort should be taken to a veterinarian as soon as possible.