Freshen Your Dog's Smelly Breath: How to Cure a Sign of Health Problems

Some people might think that their dog's smelly breath is just what a dog's breath smells like. But don't brush off Rover's stinky mouth. That smelly dog breath could be telling you that his oral and dental health isn't up to par. It could be hinting at dental problems, canine teeth decay, or dog gum disease. That's why we'd drawn up these five easy steps to freshening your dog's mouth and keeping his teeth healthy! With our help, your dog will have fresh breath and a beautiful smile.

Five Tips to Curing Dog Breath and Freshening Your Puppy's Mouth

Dog Breath Freshener Tip #1: To begin, be sure your dog has regular, annual dental cleaning. Your vet is skilled at this. Like a human's dentist, he'll brush and scrub your dog's teeth and check for any dental or tooth problems like tooth cavities or tooth damage from biting things. This should be the first thing you do. If you're worried about the cost, many pet insurance plans cover dental cleaning for dogs.

Dog Breath Freshener Tip #2: After your dog pays his yearly visit to the vet dentist, it's your turn to provide regular checkups of your dog's mouth. Check your puppy's mouth, gums and teeth at least once a week. You want to pay attention to the color of his gums-pale or bleeding gums are bad and are a sign of gum disease like gingivitis (yes, dogs can get gum disease just like people do!). Check your dog's teeth for any cavities, too.

Dog Breath Freshener Tip #3: Be aware of what your dog eats and drinks! What your dog eats and drinks can have a direct impact on his oral health. That is why you should never give your dog bones. Bones can break in his mouth, cutting his gums and cheeks, as well as wrecking havoc on his digestive system. If your dog wants to chew on something, give him a toy or rawhide. Also, be sure your dog has fresh, clean water that is replaced daily. This will help freshen his breath!

Dog Breath Freshener Tip #4: Brush your dog's teeth. Yes, this might sound odd, but it will keep your dog's breath smelling fresh and will ward off doggie gum disease and tooth decay. Your vet can help you the first time you take your dog to a tooth cleaning. There are special finger brushes that you slip over your finger and use to brush your dog's teeth. There are also special canine tooth pastes in appetizing flavors to make the whole experience a little more enjoyable for your dog.

Dog Breath Freshener Tip #5: Between brushing, let your dog snack on teeth-scrubbing snacks like Greenies chew bones or fresh, raw carrots. Greenies can be bought in any supermarket or pet store, and give your dog much-needed chewing exercise. If you use carrots, wash and rinse them well. Carrots are a great, natural snack that scrub your dogs teeth between tooth brushings. Carrots are also helpful for his digestive system (lots of fiber!) and have vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that can help keep Rover healthy.

A Healthy Dog has Clean Teeth and Fresh Breath!

With those five tips, your dog's breath should be smelling fresh, not stink. And now you know how to keep his teeth and gums healthy, and prevent oral dog disease. A healthy dog is a happy dog.