If you are a dog owner, you know that dog breath is part of the deal. However, some dogs, especially older ones, can have an unpleasant odor. Unless you know for sure that your pooch’s halitosis is temporary (you caught them snacking on something gross they shouldn’t be eating, for example), chronic bad breath means a trip to the veterinarian is necessary to determine if one of the following issues is the cause.

The Leading Causes of Bad Breath in Dogs

1. Poor Dental Hygiene

Much like humans, dogs require regular oral hygiene to keep their teeth and gums healthy and prevent bad breath. Although some treats and food help freshen breath, it’s still important to brush their teeth.

Otherwise, tartar can build up and lead to gingivitis and gum disease. Regular checkups with the veterinarian also help make sure your dog doesn’t have other problems, like cracked or broken teeth and infections, that are painful and contribute to the issue.

2. Food

Eating something inappropriate, like feces, can cause bad breath temporarily. However, your furry friend’s halitosis might be caused by their regular diet. Both wet and dry food can cause a stink, so talk to your veterinarian about different options that will solve the problem. 

3. Metabolic Disease

Metabolic conditions, like kidney disease and diabetes, can affect your dog’s breath. Kidney disease or failure causes waste products to build up in the bloodstream, which can create an ammonia-like scent on your dog’s breath.

Dogs with diabetes often have sweet, almost fruit-scented breath, in particular when they have ketoacidosis. Uncontrolled diabetes also increases the risk of infection, which can cause bad breath. 

4. Respiratory Illness

Dogs can get colds, sinus infections, and other respiratory diseases, all of which cause a buildup of pus that drips down the back of the throat, causing unpleasant breath. While it might be obvious that your dog has a respiratory issue, a visit to the veterinarian is necessary to determine the underlying cause and the right treatment.

If your dog’s breath is unbearably bad, make an appointment with a veterinarian at Rolling Hills Veterinary Hospital to find out why. They offer expert, comprehensive care at both of their Columbia, MO, locations, which are clean, comfortable, and fully equipped to handle all of your furry friend’s needs. Visit their website for more information about their services. Call (573) 449-3791 to schedule an appointment at the Keene St. location or (573) 449-7387 for the Buttonwood Dr. clinic.