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By Judyvein Cheng, CPCN, BRNC
Certified pet nutritionist in Singapore
QUICK ANSWER
"Dog breath" isn't normal. It's a sign. Most of the time it comes from plaque and bacteria in the mouth, but it can also point to digestive issues or something more serious. Mouthwashes and breath treats only mask the smell. Lasting fresh breath comes from fixing the cause.
What the smell can tell you
General bad breath
Plaque, tartar and bacteria building up on the teeth and gums. This is the most common cause.
Foul-smelling burps
Often a sign of acid reflux or digestive upset. Read more on acid reflux in dogs.
Sweet or fruity breath
Can be a sign of diabetes.
Breath that smells like urine
Can be a sign of kidney problems.
Very foul breath with other symptoms
Along with vomiting, yellowing gums or eyes, or loss of appetite, it can be a sign of liver problems.
If your dog's breath suddenly changes, or smells sweet, like urine, or very foul, see your vet to rule out an underlying health issue.
Diet matters
What your dog eats has a lot to do with how their breath smells. Highly processed, high-carbohydrate foods leave residue that feeds the bacteria in the mouth. Fresh food and raw meaty bones support a cleaner mouth. If you'd like help moving to fresh food, my PawNutrition framework can help.
Natural ways to freshen breath
Brush with coconut oil and probiotics. Here's my DIY probiotic toothpaste and a step-by-step brushing guide.
Clean after meals with JOOF Hygiene Water.
Give raw meaty bones like chicken or turkey necks, which clean the teeth and exercise the jaw. Always supervise.
Support the gut. Bad breath can start in the gut too. Adored Beast Love Bugs supports both the mouth and the gut.
Add TEEF for Life to the water bowl for everyday oral support.
FROM MY EXPERIENCE
When we adopted BeanBean, she already had grade 3 periodontal disease. With a daily routine of cleaning after meals, brushing twice a day and support in her water bowl, her breath is so much better, and at her last check-up her vet said she can now be considered grade 2. Read her full routine in coconut oil for dogs' teeth.
Frequently asked questions
Do dental chews fix bad breath?
They can help a little, but they don't replace brushing or fixing the cause.
Is doggy mouthwash a good idea?
It masks the smell rather than fixing it. I prefer prevention.
Can cats have bad breath too?
Yes, for the same reasons. The same gentle routine works for cats, using smaller amounts.
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This article is for educational purposes and isn't a substitute for veterinary care. If you're concerned about your pet's health, please seek professional advice.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Judyvein Cheng, CPCN, BRNC
Judyvein is a Certified Professional Canine Nutritionist and Certified Raw Nutrition Coach for Cats & Dogs, and the founder of JOOF Holistic Pet. Her journey began with her Frenchie, Wangcai, and today she helps pet parents in Singapore take a root-cause approach to their pets' health.
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