"Dogs just smell like that" is the most common comment about bad breath. Yet halitosis is almost never normal. Most often it is the first clear sign that something is wrong in the mouth. It is worth taking seriously.
Where the smell comes from
In the vast majority of cases the source is bacteria breaking down food debris and tissue in a diseased mouth. Tartar, gingivitis and periodontal disease create the perfect environment for microbes that produce foul sulphur compounds. The more advanced the disease, the stronger the smell.
When the cause lies outside the mouth
Sometimes halitosis signals a systemic disease. A characteristic odour can accompany kidney disease (an ammonia/urine smell), diabetes (sweet, acetone-like) or gastrointestinal and liver conditions. That is why persistent bad breath is always worth investigating - it can be a diagnostic clue.
Accompanying signs to watch
- visible tartar, red or bleeding gums,
- drooling, reluctance to eat hard food,
- increased thirst and urination (possible kidney disease),
- vomiting, weight loss, lethargy.
How we treat halitosis
We start with an oral examination and, where needed, scaling with tooth assessment and X-rays under anaesthesia. Removing tartar, treating periodontal disease and extracting hopeless teeth usually eliminate the smell at its source. If the mouth is healthy, we look for systemic causes with blood and urine tests.
Preventing fresh breath problems
The best weapon is daily hygiene: tooth brushing, dental chews and regular check-ups. "Fresheners" and water additives can help but do not replace removing the cause. If your pet's breath is unpleasant, book a visit at MultiVet in Lutynia near Wrocław - assessed by Dominika Pilarz, DVM. See our dentistry.