What You Need to Know About Bad Breath In Dogs

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Puppy breath is adorable, but adult dog breath? Not so much. But even though your older dog’s breath might not smell like roses, it shouldn’t stink either. If it does, it could be a sign of bigger problems.

If you notice that your dog has unusually bad breath, it may be caused by:

  • Something they ate

It’s no secret that dogs like to eat some pretty nasty stuff. Of course, some of these things will give the offending dog funky breath. No worries, the smell should go away fairly quickly.

  • Foreign object

If your dog gets something stuck in its mouth and it begins to deteriorate, it will likely begin to smell. A thorough inspection of the inside of your dog’s mouth should reveal if this is the cause of their bad breath.

  • Dental disease

Dental or gum disease is actually the most common cause of bad breath in dogs. Many dogs require assistance to keep their teeth clean and dental disease at bay. Regular dental exams and cleanings are recommended.

  • Kidney or liver disease

The kidneys and liver keep the bloodstream clean and free of toxins, so when they aren’t functioning correctly, waste begins to build up. This can sometimes cause bad breath.

  • Tumor

Oral tumors are common in older dogs. If they become infected, which they often do, the infection leads to a very undesirable smell.

  • Nutritional imbalance

There are several nutritional deficiencies that can cause bad breath by disrupting the balance of bacteria in the stomach and intestines. This prevents some nutrients from being absorbed properly along with leaving a bad smell in the dog’s mouth.

Treatment for Bad Breath in Dogs

If your dog has bad breath, don’t wait to get them the care they need. If you live in or around Tampa, call the veterinary experts at Affordable Pet Hospital at (813) 991-9898 to schedule an appointment for your furry friend today!