Dogs are known for their adorable wagging tails, wet noses, and unconditional love. But one of the less-adorable aspects of dog ownership is dealing with bad breath or halitosis. While it's normal for dogs to have some degree of halitosis, sometimes that bad breath can be a sign of something more serious. In this article, we'll take a look at some common causes of bad breath in dogs and how you can address them.
1. Periodontal disease
One of the most common causes of bad breath in dogs is periodontal disease. This is a condition that affects the gums and teeth and can lead to tooth loss. Periodontal disease is caused by a buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth. Bacteria and disease can hide in places that are not visible, so even with a seemingly healthy-looking mouth, your dog could still be affected.
2. Gastrointestinal disease
Another common cause of bad breath in dogs is gastrointestinal disease. This can be caused by anything from food sensitivities to more serious conditions like a gastrointestinal foreign body. If your dog's breath smells foul and they are also experiencing other symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea, it's important to take them to your veterinarian for an evaluation.
3. Intraoral foreign material
If you notice bad breath in your dog that seemingly happens suddenly, it could be due to intraoral foreign material. This is when something like a stick or a toy gets stuck in your dog's mouth, especially between the upper molars, resulting in an infection of the hard palate. Some dogs show no other symptoms, but some may show signs of discomfort such as pawing at their face.
3. Kidney disease
Another cause of bad breath in dogs is kidney disease. While this may seem like an unlikely cause, the kidneys play an important role in flushing toxins out of the body. When they are not functioning properly, those toxins can build up and lead to bad breath. Other symptoms of kidney disease in dogs include increased urination, increased thirst, weight loss, and lethargy.
4. Diabetes
Diabetes is another condition that can lead to bad breath in dogs. When diabetes is not controlled, it can cause a buildup of ketones in the blood. This can lead to a fruity or sweet smell on the breath, as well as other symptoms like increased urination and thirst.
What are the treatments for bad breath or halitosis in dogs?
The treatment for bad breath will depend on the underlying cause. If the cause is something like periodontal disease, your veterinarian may recommend professional teeth cleaning. For gastrointestinal issues, your dog may need to be put on a special diet or given medication. Intraoral foreign material will need to be removed by your vet. And for conditions like kidney disease or diabetes, your dog will need to be closely monitored and treated accordingly.
What causes bad breath in young dogs?
Even though your dog may be young and have healthy-looking teeth, the build-up of bacteria and biofilm on the teeth can still contribute to halitosis or bad breath in dogs. In these instances, brushing your dog's teeth twice daily can be beneficial. Alternatively, you can use dental kibble that is designed to brush teeth while they eat.
What causes bad breath in dogs besides teeth issues?
In addition to teeth issues, causes of bad breath in dogs include gastrointestinal diseases, diabetes, kidney disease, and intraoral foreign material or object.
What causes sudden bad breath in dogs?
If you've noticed a sudden change or worsening in your dog's breath, it could be due to intraoral foreign material like a stick or toy that is stuck in their mouth. This can cause an infection of the hard palate and should be treated by your veterinarian as soon as possible. If there are other symptoms such as increased thirst and urination, kidney disease and diabetes could be the cause.
Dealing with bad breath in dogs can be a challenge, but it's important to identify the cause so that proper treatment can be administered. In this article, we have looked at some of the most common causes of bad breath in dogs such as periodontal disease, gastrointestinal disease, intraoral foreign material, kidney disease, and diabetes. If you are concerned about your dog's breath, be sure to talk to your vet so that they can help you determine the cause and create a treatment plan.