Dental health is crucial for the general health of a dog. Regular brushing and feeding on a diet rich in fresh foods are critical for maintaining good dental health. If you are doing all of these things and your dog’s breath remains persistently bad, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian.
However, if your dog’s breath could use some more natural cures, you can check out this article. What’s the best part about it? The majority of these ingredients are undoubtedly already in your kitchen.
What causes bad breath in dogs
To begin with, it’s critical to comprehend why your dog’s breath may be foul. Dental disease is the most prevalent cause of bad breath in dogs, afflicting over 80% of canines over the age of three.
When a dog eats, food particles combine with bacteria in the dogs mouth, and if the residue is not brushed away immediately after eating, a film called plaque forms. If plaque buildup is not removed, it can harden into tartar, and tartar buildup beneath the gum line can result in periodontal disease.
Other medical conditions, such as diabetes, liver or kidney illness, and gastrointestinal problems, can all contribute to stinky breath. Consult your veterinarian if your dog’s breath is constantly unpleasant and you observe other symptoms such as loss of appetite, excessive drooling or drinking, or vomiting.
Natural ways to cure bad dog breath
A DIY Dog Toothbrush
Can’t convince your dog to use a conventional toothbrush yet? Begin with a light brushing and work your way up to a thorough cleaning by wrapping a clean piece of gauze around your finger and running it over your dogs teeth.
Additionally, rubber brushes that fit on the end of your finger are available. Never put human toothpaste on your dog as it may contain xylitol, a substance that can cause liver failure in dogs. Additionally, you should avoid baking soda, as it is toxic to dogs. Utilize dog-specific toothpaste.
Commit to Daily Brushing
If you’re like the majority of dog parents, you probably never consider brushing your dog’s teeth. However, one of the simplest and most efficient ways to eliminate bad breath in your dog is to brush their teeth daily. Brushing your dog’s teeth should help eliminate any offensive breath odor.
If your dog is not yet accustomed to having its teeth brushed, you may need to train them to remain still while you brush its teeth. The purpose of training is to acclimate your dog to having their gums and teeth massaged by you.
A pinch of parsley
The king of garnishes is loaded with vitamins and minerals that promote immunity, eyesight, and renal health. It is high in antioxidants, which help defend against free radical damage, and it can help alleviate swelling and pain associated with arthritis and other inflammatory illnesses, as well as soothe an upset stomach and digestive problems.
Additionally, it is well-known as a dogs breath refresher. Add a few drops to food or combine with water (1 teaspoon for 20 pounds of body weight) to make a juice that you can pour directly into your dog’s water dish. Additionally, take care to select the curly leaf variety. Spring parsley, a carrot family member that resembles parsley, is harmful to dogs.
Carrots and apple slices
Carrots and apple slices are both excellent dog snacks, particularly when it comes to teeth and breath. Carrots and apples are excellent healthy snacks and treats that help maintain a healthy mouth. Additionally, they are an excellent treat for teething puppies! Freeze carrots for a refreshing treat.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar, a mainstay of health-conscious humans pantries, is also beneficial for dogs. By adding around half a teaspoon of raw organic apple cider vinegar to your dog’s water bowl, you can help your dog’s breath stay fresh.
By supplementing your pup’s regular meal with a probiotic made exclusively for dogs, you can help maintain a healthy balance of oral flora and fresh breath. Consult your veterinarian for the best brand and dosage of probiotics for your dog.
Coconut oil
If you’re a fan of natural home treatments for everyday problems, you’re well aware of how potent coconut oil is. When used in small and controlled amounts, coconut oil can assist you in keeping your dog’s breath fresh, boosting your pet’s metabolism, and promoting regular digestion.
Coconut oil is well-known for its immunity-boosting effects and for its ability to improve the health of the skin and coat. Additionally, it can be utilized to assist in the fight against bad dog breath. You can add a few drops (very carefully at first to avoid stomach distress) to your dog’s food or use it when brushing his teeth.
Coconut oil has also been shown to benefit their coats and skin by keeping them luscious, healthy, and parasite-free. To avoid the negative consequences of excessive intake, simply add a spoonful of coconut oil to their foods.
Probiotics or Yogurt
While we all seek to integrate more yogurt and probiotics into our diets, only a few pet owners understand that we should do the same for our dogs. Indeed, yogurt is a nutritious, natural, and healthy treat for your pet – and it also helps fight bad breath.
This is because one of the primary causes of halitosis is hydrogen sulfide, which emits the odor associated with “rotten eggs.” Yogurt and probiotics, when consumed consistently, can help neutralize harmful germs.