Is Bad Breath in Dogs a Sign of Illness

If you've ever leaned in for a cuddle with your dog and were met with a wall of foul-smelling breath, you're not alone. While it's easy to chalk up bad breath in dogs to their last snack or a lack of brushing, the truth is that halitosis in dogs can sometimes be more than just unpleasant, it can be a warning sign. 

So, is bad breath in dogs just a normal part of pet ownership, or could it actually be a sign of a deeper health issue? In this blog, we’ll explore what causes bad breath, when it could indicate illness, and how you can treat and prevent it to keep your pup healthy and happy.

What Causes Bad Breath in Dogs

Just like humans, dogs can develop unpleasant breath for a variety of reasons, some fairly innocent, while others may signal more serious issues. It’s common for dog owners to occasionally notice a whiff of stinky breath after their pup snacks on something questionable, but chronic bad breath in dogs, also known as halitosis in dogs, often points to an underlying problem that shouldn’t be overlooked.

Common causes include:

• Dental plaque and tartar

This is the most frequent culprit. When food particles get left behind after meals, bacteria in the mouth feed on them and form a sticky film called plaque. If not removed through brushing or chewing, this plaque hardens into tartar, a rough surface that allows even more bacteria to cling to the teeth and gum line. The result is not just foul-smelling breath, but also a risk of infection and oral discomfort.

• Gingivitis or periodontal disease in dogs

As plaque and tartar accumulate, your dog may begin to develop gingivitis or even full-blown periodontal disease in dogs. This condition involves inflammation and infection of the gums and tissues that support the teeth. 

It not only causes your dog’s breath to smell especially offensive, but it can also lead to painful chewing, gum bleeding, tooth loss, and systemic health issues if left untreated. Periodontal disease in dogs is alarmingly common, particularly in older pets and small breeds, and is one of the leading causes of persistent halitosis.

• Foreign objects

Another contributing factor to bad breath in dogs is the presence of foreign objects trapped in the mouth. Dogs explore the world with their mouths and often chew on sticks, bones, toys, or other debris. Sometimes, small fragments can become lodged between their teeth or under their gums. 

Over time, these trapped materials begin to decay, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and resulting in a strong, rotting odor that no amount of brushing can immediately resolve.

• Diet

Your dog’s diet also plays a significant role in the way their breath smells. Dogs that are fed poor-quality commercial food, excessive human table scraps, or that get into the trash are more likely to develop bad breath. 

Highly processed or sugary foods can upset your dog’s digestive system and fuel bacterial overgrowth in both the mouth and gut, contributing to unpleasant odors. Even certain protein-heavy diets can sometimes cause sulfuric or “meaty” breath, particularly if not balanced with the right nutrients.

• Lack of oral care

Many pet owners skip brushing their dog’s teeth or rely solely on treats and toys to clean their pup’s mouth. While dental chews can help, they’re not a substitute for regular brushing or veterinary dental exams. Without routine oral hygiene, plaque and bacteria can quickly take over, leading to not only bad breath but also long-term dental problems.

When Bad Breath Could Be a Sign of Illness

So, how do you know when bad breath in dogs is a sign of illness? Simple: when the odor is persistent, unusually strong, or smells like something specific like ammonia or sweetness, you may be dealing with something deeper than dental issues.

Possible illnesses linked to bad breath:

• Kidney disease - If your dog’s breath smells like urine or ammonia, this could indicate their kidneys aren’t filtering toxins properly.

• Diabetes - A sweet or fruity odor could be a symptom of unmanaged diabetes, especially if your dog is also drinking and urinating more than usual.

• Liver disease - Bad breath with a musty or metallic smell, especially when accompanied by vomiting, yellow gums, or lack of appetite, might point to liver trouble.

• Oral tumors - Growths in the mouth can cause necrotic tissue, leading to especially rancid breath.

If you notice any of these signs, it's time to talk to your vet. Persistent halitosis in dogs shouldn’t be shrugged off, it’s often their way of telling you something’s wrong.

Signs That Your Dog’s Bad Breath Is More Than Just a Dental Issue

So how can you tell if it’s something more serious than just bad brushing habits? Keep an eye out for these warning signs:

• Breath smells like ammonia or urine

• Breath has a sweet or fruity scent

• Unexplained weight loss

• Increased thirst and urination

• Lethargy or changes in behavior

• Loss of appetite

• Bleeding or swelling in the mouth

If these symptoms appear alongside bad breath, it’s crucial to schedule a vet visit. These signs often go hand-in-hand with kidney disease, diabetes, or liver problems, all of which need prompt medical attention.

How to Treat Bad Breath in Dogs

Treatment starts with identifying the root cause.

For dental-related bad breath:

• Professional Dental Cleaning - Your vet can perform a deep dental cleaning to remove tartar and check for gum disease. This procedure, done under anesthesia, allows the veterinarian to thoroughly clean below the gumline, remove tartar, and inspect for broken teeth or oral infections. 

In many cases, a single cleaning can drastically improve your dog’s breath and overall dental health.

• Regular Brushing at Home - Brushing your dog’s teeth at home is one of the best ways to maintain oral hygiene and prevent stinky dog breath. Aim for daily brushing, or at least several times a week, using a dog-safe toothpaste, never human toothpaste, which can be toxic to pets. 

A soft-bristled toothbrush or finger brush can make the process more comfortable for your pup. With consistent brushing, you’ll reduce plaque buildup and keep that dog breath more bearable.

• Dental chews and toys - Many dental chews for dogs are specially designed to reduce tartar and freshen breath. Look for products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC). 

Chew toys with textured surfaces can also help scrape away plaque naturally as your dog chews. For example, rubber toys like KONG or rope toys offer the added benefit of promoting gum health while entertaining your pup.

For illness-related bad breath:

• Veterinary Testing and Diagnosis - Your vet may recommend blood tests or urine analysis to check for kidney, liver, or diabetes-related issues.

  
  

• Treating the underlying illness is key - Once the cause is identified, your vet will recommend an appropriate treatment plan. This could include insulin therapy for diabetes, special diets and medications for kidney support, or liver supplements. For example, if diabetes is diagnosed, regular insulin injections and a controlled diet can improve your dog’s overall health and reduce bad breath significantly.

  
  

Home Remedies to Improve Your Dog’s Breath

While veterinary care is essential for health-related breath issues, there are several safe, home remedies for bad breath in dogs that support daily hygiene and freshness:

•  Water additives - These can be added to your dog’s water bowl and help reduce bacteria in the mouth.

• Coconut oil - Has antimicrobial properties and can be added to food or used as a brushing agent.

• Carrots and apples - Crunchy snacks that help clean teeth while satisfying your dog’s appetite.

• Parsley - This herb isn’t just garnish, it’s a natural breath freshener. Chop it up and mix it into their food.

Final Thoughts

Dog breath isn’t always just “dog breath.” Sometimes it’s their body’s way of waving a red flag. Whether it's dental disease, liver trouble, or kidney failure, persistent bad breath in dogs shouldn't be ignored.

If your dog's breath has suddenly changed or worsened, take note of the smell, monitor their behavior, and consult your vet. A quick checkup could make all the difference.

With the right care, a healthy diet, and regular dental routines, your pup’s breath and overall health can stay fresh for years to come. Want to support your dog’s wellness every day? Visit Petly for healthy customized meal plans.

By Esther Namawanda