Reducing Bad Breath In Your Dog

Tips Can Bring Relief

A dog’s bad breath can be unpleasant for pet owners.  Yet, reputable Veterinary Assistant School graduates know bad breath can suggest more than ‘unpleasantness’.  Bad breath, or halitosis, is actually created by a build-up of bacteria either in your dog’s mouth, lungs, or gut.  If the problem is persistent, vet assistant schools  advise pet owners should investigate further if their dog has a recurring problem that may lurk behind his bad breath.

For example, sometimes canine bad breath can be caused by a build-up of tartar in your dog’s mouth, particularly in small breeds.  If this turns out be the cause, your veterinarian may recommend regular dental cleaning.  There could be other more serious conditions that cause ongoing problems too.  The intestinal tract or respiratory system can be culprits that create bad breath in dogs.

Certified veterinary assistant schools recommend making a trip to the vet’s if your dog has frequent breath with unusual odors as indicated below.

• Fruity or sweet breath could suggest diabetes, especially if your dog has increased water intake and urination
• Urine-smelling breath can be a sign of kidney disease
• Particularly sour or foul smell to the breath that may also be associated with vomiting or yellowed corneas, therefore indicating possible liver problems.

Your veterinarian can provide a treatment program that includes reducing your dog’s bad breath for any particular disease.  If your dog has intermittent problems with bad breath, reputable veterinary assistant schools suggest the following protocol:

• Take your dog for regular checkups to rule out an ongoing disease
• Provide dental cleanings as your dog ages, including home brushing
• Provide high quality dog food
• Give your dog hard but safe chew toys that facilitate the oral cleaning process naturally
• Give your dog high quality treats like mint-flavored bones that can reduce bad breath.

Overall, just like their human counterparts, dogs can occasionally get bad breath that can be easily eliminated through the above strategies.  Routine visits to the vet can also help monitor any disease that can creep up as your dog ages.  With support from your animal care professional, you can keep your dog’s bad breath to a minimum.