Bad Breath Remedies for Dogs

Bad breath (or halitosis) is a dental condition that affects humans as well as dogs. Although many pet owners believe it is normal for dogs to have "doggie breath," there are instances where your dog's breath could develop an extremely strong odor. An unpleasant odor in your dog's mouth may be an indication of a serious health issue.
Several factors may contribute to your dog having bad breath.

These include:

• Buildup of odor-producing bacteria in the mouth, lungs, or gut
• Dental or gum disease, such as tartar and plaque on the teeth
• Problems in organs, such as the gastrointestinal tract, liver, or kidneys

You can prevent foul-smelling breath in your dog by following these steps:

Brush your dog's teeth
Brushing your dog's teeth may seem difficult, but it is the best preventive measure you can take against your dog developing bad breath. Never use human toothpaste for your dog. It is not digestible and could cause illness.

The following dental products can help eliminate your dog's bad breath:

Kill bad breath-causing bacteria
Using a water additive in your dog's bowl helps kill bacteria, while dental rinses help fight plaque, freshen your dog's breath, and maintain good oral health.

Give dental chews or treats
Giving your dog a dental chew or treat can help prevent tartar and plaque buildup between toothbrushings. In addition, they can also help maintain good oral health. Many treats will be gobbled up quickly, while a dental chew usually lasts longer. Always watch your dog while he or she is chewing the treat to prevent choking.