Dog Breath No More: How Do I Keep a Dog’s Breath Fresh?

There’s nothing more heartwarming than coming home from a long day and being greeted by our dogs. But that feeling sours the moment they jump up to give you a kiss on the cheeks. Your nose crinkles as the smell hits you—dog breath.

This experience is almost universal among dog owners. But, surprisingly, the question of how to keep a dog’s breath fresh is much simpler than one would think. In many cases, one can simply follow the same steps one would take to freshen a human’s breath.

Brush Your Dog’s Teeth

Many pet owners don’t realize that it is possible to brush a dog’s teeth. But specially designed dog toothpaste and brushes do exist, and using them is not as hard as it sounds. Here are a few tips to make brushing your dog’s teeth easier:

•Try to match the toothbrush to the dog’s size; use finger brushes for small dogs and long-handled brushes for big dogs.
•Create a routine so that your dog knows what to expect.
•Choose a time when your dog is calm to brush their teeth.
•Avoid holding your dog down or exhibiting aggressive behavior.
•Keep an eye on your dog’s mood as you brush their teeth. If they are getting too anxious, stop and try to brush their teeth later.

Brushing your dog’s teeth twice a day is ideal for maximum dental health. However, brushing at least three times a week is sufficient for keeping a dog’s breath fresh.

Reconsider Your Dog’s Diet

When we eat foods like garlic or onions, we expect them to impact our breath. The same is true of dogs, though in a different way. Certain foods can impact your dog’s digestive health, causing bad breath. Additionally, your dog being deficient in certain vitamins like A, B2, and B5 can lead to gum disease.

To help prevent bad breath, be sure your dog has a healthy, well-rounded diet. You can also add some of these treats for additional breath support:

•Seedless apple slices
•Baby carrots
•Celery
•Kibbles formulated for dental health

Giving your dog chew toys can also help their oral health. As your dog chews, the toy will help break off plaque for healthier teeth and better breath.

Schedule Regular Dental Appointments

Sometimes, bad breath comes from significant dental health issues such as periodontal disease or gingivitis. In this case, having a veterinarian look at your dog’s teeth is essential. A vet will be able to help provide valuable teeth-cleaning services to your dog as well as treatments to help prevent the progression of canine dental problems.

If you have ever asked yourself, “How do I keep a dog’s breath fresh?” you’re not alone. Putting a stop to halitosis in your dogs will make being around them more comfortable and will ensure your dog’s mouth stays happy and healthy. That’s why we provide top-of-the-line dog dental servicesfor your dog.