Bad breath in dogs: causes and solutions

Bad breath in dogs is a common problem. But it's more than just an unpleasant smell. It can be a sign of serious health issues. The good news is that bad breath in dogs is preventable. Effective dental care plays a crucial role in this. Find out what diseases are behind it, what the treatment for foul breath is, and what is necessary.

What is bad breath in dogs?

In this guide we look specifically at persistent, unpleasant bad breath in dogs. In veterinary medicine, this phenomenon is known as halitosis or Foetor ex ore known. Temporary bad breath in dogs can occur at any time, for example after eating or due to burping. Such short-term cases are usually harmless to health. It is different if your dog has constant bad breath.

The most common causes of bad breath

There are several factors that can cause bad breath in dogs. The most common reason is formation of plaque and tartarThese deposits occur when food particles and bacteria in the dog's mouth are not regularly removed.

gingivitis How gingivitis or periodontitis are another common cause. They are often caused by the buildup of bacteria and tartar deposits along the gum line. If left untreated, gingivitis can worsen and lead to serious disease.

The Nutrition plays an important role. Incorrect food can lead to the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth, which causes bad breath. Foods high in sugar and starch (such as wheat or corn) promote the formation of plaque. If it is not removed regularly, it hardens into tartar. This can only be removed by professional cleaning.

Other health problems should also be considered. diseases of the gastrointestinal tract such as IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease) or kidneys can cause bad breath. A visit to the vet is therefore advisable to clarify possible causes.

How does a change of food help against bad breath in dogs?

Even if your dog's bad breath is due to dental problems, you should take a closer look at his diet. An unsuitable food can not only cause digestive problems, but also encourage the formation of plaque and ultimately tartar. It is therefore worth not skimping on the choice of food in order to do something good for your four-legged friend.

The food should not only taste good to your dog, but also be well tolerated and provide all the important nutrients in the right amounts. You may have already noticed the variety of food options. There is no "ideal food" because dogs are just as individual as we are humans. What works for one dog can cause problems for another.

Whether dry or wet food, raw food or home-cooked meals: Each type of food has its advantages and disadvantages. It is important that it serves as a “complete feed”, i.e. covers the entire nutritional requirement. While dry food or BARF with coarse pieces of muscle, bones or cartilage can have a short abrasive effect on the teeth when eating, wet food usually softer and has less effect on the abrasion of dental plaque.

Dog food contains both plant and animal ingredients, the digestibility of which varies. Muscle meat, soy and potatoes are easily digestible, while bones, lungs, tripe or legumes can often cause gas in the large intestine because they are harder to digest.

Why is dental care so important for dogs?

Dog dental hygiene is crucial to their well-being. Over 80% of dogs over three years of age suffer from dental problems that, if left untreated, can lead to serious illnesses. Poor oral hygiene can cause painful inflammation and tooth loss. In addition, there is a risk of infections affecting other organs.

Many health problems in dogs start in the mouth. And this often begins with something seemingly harmless – unpleasant bad breath. That's why education is essential. Regular dental care helps to prevent just that. It not only promotes fresh breath, but also prevents serious health risks.

Conventional methods vs. innovative solutions

Conventional methods of dental care often involve manually brushing the teeth, for example with finger cots or unsuitable toothbrushes. This can be uncomfortable for dogs and requires patience and skill on the part of the owner. Innovative solutions such as the emmi-pet ultrasonic toothbrush offer an effective solution and enables the Cleaning without scrubbing and vibration, which greatly reduces stress for the animal. This makes it easier to integrate dental care into everyday life for both the dog and you as the owner.

The Benefits of Ultrasonic Dental Care for Dogs

Many dog owners try to replace dental care with chewing bones or special dog treats. While these products can reduce plaque in the short term, they are no substitute for a thorough clean. The emmi-pet ultrasonic toothbrush offers a revolutionary solution for dog dental care. The ultrasound generates millions of microscopic bubbles that gently penetrate the spaces between teeth. This technology ensures a thorough cleaning that does not require manual brushing, and is completely silent and vibration-free. Bacteria, plaque and food particles are dissolved without damaging the enamel. What's more, it is specially tailored to the needs of our four-legged friends and is suitable for all dog breeds and age groups – from puppies to senior dogs. This makes dental care stress-free and therefore ideal for dogs that are sensitive to noise or movement but still need effective dental care. The result? Healthier gums, less tartar and a happy, contented dog!

Using the emmi-pet toothbrush is also very easy and can be easily integrated into your daily routine. Simply hold the brush head of the ultrasonic toothbrush against your dog's teeth for 2 to 3 minutes without applying pressure. The gentle microbubbles remove plaque and bacteria in the mouth. You should repeat this process at least 2 to 3 times a week.

In addition, you will save on veterinary costs in the long term, as fewer procedures and treatments will be necessary. Your dog's dental care will be easier and more relaxed, which will lead to a better quality of life and, in the long term, to a longer life for your dog.

Conclusion: Eliminate bad breath in dogs with regular dental care

If your dog suddenly notices a bad smell coming from his mouth, there is no need to worry. However, if the smell becomes a persistent problem, it could indicate poor dental hygiene, which can lead to plaque, tartar and possibly even periodontal disease. These problems can often be identified by visual inspection and can be treated by regular brushing of teeth with an ultrasonic toothbrush specially developed for animals or can be improved by treatment by a veterinarian. However, bad breath in dogs can also be a symptom of other health problems. These include digestive disorders caused by poor nutrition, chronic inflammation of the gastric mucosa, and diseases such as diabetes mellitus or problems with the kidneys or liver. In such cases, a veterinarian should provide clarity.