How to Improve Your Dog’s Bad Breath
I love how affectionate my dog can be; he always wants to cuddle up close. However, there was just one small problem. His stinky breath!
I decided to do some research and ask the vet what we could do to help him with his bad breath. We discovered many potential avenues on combating the smell, which I will share below for those who are currently finding themselves in the same situation!
1. Ask Your Professional Groomer to Brush Their Teeth
A major cause of bad breath within dogs is poor dental health. Therefore, one of the best things you can do to get rid of that stink is to brush their teeth regularly, at least two to three times a week. Supplement this with a professional teeth cleaning from Groomit for great results!
2. Rawhide Bones
These bones can help reduce your dog’s bad breath by lowering plaque, improving their dental health at the same time. However, rawhide bones aren’t a great fit for every dog. We’d only recommend this option for breeds who are softer chewers, as it is easy for strong chewers to break these bones into fragments, which may pose a health risk if ingested. Ensure that you choose the correct kind of bone for your dog’s size too!
3. Cinnamon
Yes, cinnamon! Cinnamon can help break up food particles in their teeth, removing the smell. A small sprinkle within their meals can help for temporary cases of bad breath.
4. Parsley
My grandma used to say that parsley can help freshen your breath. Turns out, it can do the same for your dogs! Dog treats that contain parsley can help, or you can sprinkle small quantities onto your dog’s meal. Be sure to not give too much, as parsley can cause skin conditions if ingested in large amounts.
5. Coconut Oil
There is so much buzz these days about the benefits of coconut oil, not only for cooking, the skin, but also for our beloved pets. It’s a common pantry item and it can have a multitude of benefits, including fresher breath.
When Does Bad Breath Become a Concern?
If your dog’s bad breath persists, it is recommended above all else to get them checked out by a veterinarian. Bad breath can be a symptom of dental disease, kidney problems, or even diabetes. Treating the root cause will help clear up the bad breath.
As mentioned before, the best thing you can do to prevent breath problems is to look after your dog’s teeth properly. We at Groomit are always willing to help with this; our expert groomers are just a few clicks away! Schedule an appointment if you are concerned with your dog’s breath and teeth.
