Doggy Breath: How to Remedy Your Dog’s Bad Breath, Naturally
by www.SixWise.com

Dogs can be notorious for their not-so-fresh breath, but really, your dog should not be able to clear a room just by yawning. In fact, just like in people, dog breath often develops because bacteria have accumulated on their teeth.

As bacteria continue to grow and calcium salts are deposited, this plaque turns into tartar. The rough surface of tartar allows even more plaque to accumulate and spread. In time, a buildup of plaque and tartar can lead to periodontal disease, which can cause mouth pain, gingivitis, receding gums and tooth loss.

So bad breath is often one of the first signs of oral disease in pets (which, unfortunately, is also extremely common … about 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats show signs of oral disease by the young age of 3, according to the American Veterinary Dental Society).

Can Bad Breath Signal a Medical Problem?

While oral disease is the most common culprit behind bad breath and dogs, it can also be a sign of health issues related to the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract or other organs. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), the following doggy breath odors signal a potentially serious problem:

• Sweet or fruity breath could be a sign of diabetes (other symptoms include frequent drinking or urination)

• Breath that smells like urine can indicate kidney disease

• Foul-smelling breath could be a sign of a liver problem, especially if it’s accompanied by vomiting, lack of appetite, and yellow-colored corneas or gums

If you notice any of the above, or any other unusual change in the your dog’s breath odor, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What Can You do to Keep Your Dog’s Breath Fresh?

One of the most important steps is to keep your dog’s teeth clean. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends twice-a-year check-ups, including an oral health checkup, to ensure your pet’s teeth and gums are healthy. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) recommends regular oral examinations and dental cleanings annually starting at 1 year of age for cats and small-breed dogs, and at 2 years of age for large-breed dogs.

You can help to minimize your pet’s need for professional cleanings by brushing daily and offering healthy chews, which will help to dislodge some of the soft plaque. A healthy, species-appropriate diet will also help to keep your pet healthy overall, and reduce any digestive upset. However, once plaque hardens and develops below the gum line, a professional cleaning will be necessary.

3 Must-Haves for Your Dog’s Fresh Breath Arsenal

You’ve ruled out medical issues, have your dog’s teeth professionally cleaned and you brush them regularly … but his breath is still far from fresh.

Now what?

We recommend you keep the following all natural methods from GreenerWiener.com up your sleeve.

1. Bluto’s Yummy Gum: This all-natural blend is exceptional for oral hygiene, bad breath and periodontal disease.

Bluto's Yummy Gum contains hydrosols of peppermint and helichrysum, combined with anti-inflammatory (thyme linelol) and antibacterial (niaouli) ingredients to provide an effective and natural oral hygiene treatment that works great as a supplement to brushing.

This is one of the most effective and natural oral treatments to keep your dog's gums healthy and breath fresh. It’s quick and easy to use, too. Simply swab the included pop-up brush over your dog’s teeth and gums for an effective oral treatment!

2. HappyTails Dog Smog Remedy: The all-natural formula contains peppermint and fennel to freshen and improve bad breath, along with enzymes and herbal extracts to soothe the stomach and aid digestion. Works exceptionally well to relieve bad breath and gas. You can either spritz it right into your dog’s mouth or add a few drops to his food or water.

3. Sam’s Yams Sweet Potato Chews: These whole thick slabs of dehydrated sweet potato provide excellent nutrition and a patent-pending hard, grooved surface that promotes dental health. Also available in an awesome bone shape infused with chamomile tea!

How to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth for Fresher Breath

Regular brushing should be a daily ritual for both you and your pet, and it will go a long way toward helping to keep your dog’s breath fresh.

If your pet is not used to having their mouth touched, start by getting him or her used to having your hands in the area. Then gradually progress to using a specially designed pet toothbrush or fingertip brush, along with a toothpaste designed especially for pets.

Do not use human toothpaste for your pets, as it may irritate your pet’s stomach. Fluoride can also interfere with young pets’ tooth enamel formation, so stick to pet toothpastes or make your own paste out of baking soda and water.

At first you may only get to brush a couple of teeth at a time, but gradually you will be able to do their whole mouth.

If you stay disciplined with brushing, it will help to keep your dog’s mouth fresh, and may also cut back on the number of professional cleanings he will need. Again, if you notice an unusual or foul odor on your dog’s breath, you should consult your veterinarian to get to the root of the problem.

Recommended Reading

Dental Care for Pets: Do You Need to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth, Too?

Do You Kiss Your Dog? Are Doggy Kisses Delightful or Dangerous?

Sources

AVMA.org February 4, 2009

HealthyPet.com AAHA Dental Care Guidelines

ASPCA.org

Del Monte Foods Company Financial News October 13, 2005