Solving Bad Breath in Dogs
We all love having dogs in our lives. Nothing makes you feel better after a long day at work than coming through the front door and seeing your four legged friend there to greet you, but sometimes a dog’s breath can be absolutely awful. Since you can’t exactly give your dog a breath mint, let’s look at some ways you can help improve your pet’s bad breath once and for all.
When adults have bad breath, one of the first things many of us do is head to the bathroom and grab our toothbrush. We can’t expect our dogs to do the same, but we can help them keep their teeth clean. Depending on how passive your dog is, you may be able to brush their teeth for them, but if Fido isn’t having any of it, you may need to take them to the vet for a professional cleaning. Regular teeth maintenance should be included in every check up as dogs can succumb to gum disease and other bad mouth conditions just like a human. If you think you can pull off regular brushings at home, talk to your vet or your local pet store for a doggie toothbrush and toothpaste.
Your dog’s breath may benefit from a change in diet. Bad breath in dogs can sometimes be caused by wet or moist food getting caught in the teeth and gums. Try switching your dog to dry food for a short period of time to see if it eliminates the bad breath or at least limits it. Some companies even make a breath control formula. Make sure you occasionally switch back to wet food as it is good for your dog’s digestion. You simply may want to try a different brand than you were using before.
Since the good people at Trident don’t make doggie treats, many people think that there isn’t much in the way of treats that can help solve your dog’s bad breath. However, more and more products are hitting the market, which are targeted at solving bad breath in dogs. Look for homemade dog treats that have mint or parsley in them. A regular diet featuring these ingredients can help cleanse your dog’s mouth between meals and help remove bothersome food particles that can collect and cause odor.
Finally, bad breath in dogs can sometimes be a sign of poor digestion in your dog’s stomach. Instead of buying treats made specifically to get rid of bad breath, you may want to invest in some treats that help with your dog’s digestive cycle. You may even have to switch the dry or wet food your dog enjoys to a brand that is more easily taken. Ask your vet if your dog shows any signs of poor digestion. Some of the top, easily digestible brands of dog food are only available by prescription and can be bought directly from your vet. An increase in exercise can often help get your dog’s body back the way it was, too.