Why Does My Dog Have Bad Breath? Causes, Remedies and Fresh Breath Solutions

There’s nothing better than cuddling your dog—unless their breath smells like something out of the bin. If you’ve found yourself dodging kisses lately, you’re not alone. Bad dog breath is one of the most common complaints from pet parents. But did you know it could be a sign of something more serious?

In this blog, we’ll break down what causes stinky dog breath, how to fix it naturally, and when it’s time to visit the vet. Whether your pup just needs a dental chew or a full check-up, we’ve got you covered.

What Causes Bad Breath in Dogs?

Dog breath is often dismissed as normal, but persistent or foul-smelling breath can point to an underlying health issue. Here are the most common reasons:

1. Poor Oral Hygiene

The number one cause of bad breath in dogs is poor dental hygiene. Just like us, dogs build up plaque and tartar over time. Without regular brushing, bacteria in the mouth thrive and cause that unmistakable stench.

2. Periodontal Disease

If tartar and plaque aren’t removed, they lead to gum inflammation, gingivitis, and eventually periodontal disease. This affects 80 percent of dogs over the age of three and can result in tooth loss, pain, and very bad breath.

3. Something Stuck in the Mouth

Sticks, bones, rope toys, or even food can get stuck between your dog’s teeth or gums, causing infections and an unpleasant smell. Always check their mouth if the bad breath comes on suddenly.

4. Dietary Habits

Some dogs love to eat things they shouldn’t. Whether it’s food scraps from the bin, animal poop, or even decomposing material outside, these can all contribute to revolting breath.

5. Medical Conditions

Certain health conditions can cause distinct smells in your dog’s breath:

• Kidney disease: Breath smells like ammonia or urine.
• Liver disease: Accompanied by yellow gums or eyes and vomiting.
• Diabetes: Sweet or fruity breath, often with increased thirst and urination.
• Digestive problems: Issues in the gut microbiome can show up in the mouth too.
  
  

7 Home Remedies for Bad Dog Breath

If your vet rules out medical issues, these home remedies can help restore fresh breath and improve oral health naturally.

1. Brush Their Teeth

Daily brushing is the best way to remove plaque and bacteria. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and dog-safe toothpaste. Never use human toothpaste as it can be toxic to pets.

2. Try Dental Chews and Treats

Dental treats like our Roo Cleaners or Emu Femur are not only tasty, but they help scrape away plaque and reduce tartar buildup.

3. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil contains antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. You can rub a small amount on your dog’s gums or add it to their meals for skin, coat, and dental benefits.

4. Carrots and Apple Slices

These crunchy snacks help clean your dog’s teeth as they chew. They’re also a healthy alternative to commercial treats.

5. Apple Cider Vinegar

Add a teaspoon of diluted apple cider vinegar to your dog’s water to help balance bacteria in the mouth. Make sure it’s properly diluted and don’t use it on dogs with open mouth sores.

6. Probiotics and Yogurt

Bad breath can come from an imbalanced gut. A spoonful of plain, sugar-free yogurt or a vet-approved probiotic supplement can help restore healthy bacteria in the digestive system.

7. Herbal Mouth Rinses

Chamomile and green tea soaks can soothe irritated gums and help combat bacteria naturally. Simply steep the tea, cool it down, and use it as a rinse or gentle wipe on the gums.

When to Visit the Vet

Home remedies help with mild cases, but if your dog’s breath smells:

• Like urine
• Like something rotting
• Fruity or sweet
• Is accompanied by vomiting or yellow gums

Book a vet check-up as soon as possible. Conditions like liver disease, diabetes, and kidney failure need urgent attention.

How to Prevent Bad Breath in Dogs

Once you get your dog’s breath under control, these habits can help keep it that way:

• Brush your dog’s teeth every day or at least a few times a week
• Use natural dental chews and treats
• Schedule annual professional cleanings with your vet
• Avoid letting your dog scavenge from bins or cat litter trays
• Provide a balanced diet with plenty of fresh, raw, or lightly cooked ingredients
• Add gut-friendly supplements or probiotic-rich foods
• Keep toys and food bowls clean to avoid bacteria build-up
  
  

Lenny’s Picks for Fresher Dog Breath

Here at Lenny’s Pup Shop, we know that bad breath can be a symptom of something bigger. That’s why we’ve created a range of natural, vet-approved treats that support oral hygiene and digestion at the same time.

Check out our top picks:

• Roo Cleaners: Natural dental chews that help with tartar and freshen breath
• Emu Femur: Packed with Emu oil, low in fat, and good for the gut
• Bully Sticks: Scrapes away build up plaque and tartare, reducing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
  
  

Final Thoughts

Your dog’s breath might not always be minty fresh, but it shouldn’t knock you out either. Regular brushing, natural chews, and a healthy diet can go a long way in keeping their mouth clean and their breath under control.

If something smells off, don’t ignore it. Sometimes stinky breath is your dog’s way of telling you something is wrong.

Need help choosing the right treats or supplements? Drop by Lenny’s Pup Shop this weekend or shop online for Australia’s best natural treats.

Say goodbye to bad breath and hello to puppy kisses again.