How Do You Get Rid Of Bad Breath in Dogs?

Bad breath in dogs - often brushed off as “just doggy breath” - can sneak up on even the most devoted pet parent. While a little morning whiff might seem normal, persistent or foul-smelling breath usually means something more is going on. The good news? With a bit of attention and care, you can freshen up your dog’s breath and help support their overall health in the process.

So let’s break down the common causes of bad breath in dogs and how you can safely get rid of it.

Start With the Most Likely Culprit: Dental Issues

The number one reason dogs develop bad breath is poor dental hygiene. Over time, plaque builds up on your dog’s teeth and hardens into tartar, which harbors odor-producing bacteria. Left untreated, this can lead to gingivitis, periodontal disease, and even painful infections. And that stinky breath? It’s often the first warning sign.

What helps:

• Brush your dog’s teeth regularly. Use a dog-safe toothbrush and toothpaste (never human toothpaste). Even a few times a week can make a difference.
• Try dental chews or water additives. These can help reduce plaque and freshen breath, especially when used consistently.
• Schedule regular vet cleanings. Your vet can remove tartar buildup during professional dental cleanings and check for deeper issues like infections or tooth decay.

Look at What They’re Eating

Sometimes, a dog’s breath reflects what they’ve been snacking on. Dogs with access to garbage, outdoor “treats,” or even their own or other animals’ waste (a behavior called coprophagia) will almost certainly have breath to match.

What helps:

• Keep trash and litter boxes out of reach.
• Stick to a balanced, high-quality dog food.
• Avoid table scraps or foods that aren’t meant for dogs.
• If your dog is a repeat offender with gross habits, talk to your vet about training or behavioral tips.

Rule Out Health Conditions

While dental disease is the most common cause of bad breath, some medical conditions can also cause unusual or persistent mouth odor.

• A sweet or fruity smell might signal diabetes.
• A urine-like odor could point to kidney disease.
• Extremely foul breath might be tied to liver problems or GI issues.

If your dog’s breath suddenly changes or is accompanied by other signs like weight loss, vomiting, excessive drinking, or changes in appetite or energy levels, it’s time to see your vet.

Check for Foreign Objects or Injuries

Dogs love to chew - but sometimes, small bits of food, bone, or foreign material get stuck between their teeth or in their gums. This can lead to localized infections, swelling, and - you guessed it - bad breath.

What helps:

• Gently inspect your dog’s mouth regularly. Look for anything caught between teeth or signs of redness, bleeding, or swelling.
• If your dog lets you, lift their lips and examine their gums and molars.
• If something seems off or they resist examination, let your vet take a look.

Stick to a Consistent Routine

Just like people, dogs do best with regular oral care. You don’t need to go overboard, but creating a consistent hygiene routine will go a long way in keeping their breath fresh and their teeth healthy.

Try:

• Brushing their teeth every 2–3 days (daily if possible)
• Using dental chews as a fun treat
• Adding dental rinse or water additives to their bowl
• Scheduling an annual dental exam at the vet

Fresh Breath, Happy Pup

At the end of the day, bad breath isn’t something you have to live with - or accept as “normal.” With good dental habits, a healthy diet, and regular checkups, your dog’s breath can go from foul to fresh. And more importantly, you’ll be supporting their health and happiness from the inside out.

So if those kisses are starting to smell a little too strong, take it as a sign: your dog might need a little help with their dental routine.