( Best Dog Foods for Bad Breath, Best Dog Foods for Bad Breath Ratings, Best Dog Foods for Bad Breath Reviews )
Does your dog’s breath make your eyes water? Is it so bad that it scares the flies? Well, chances are there is something going on in that body or in your pup’s mouth!
Like his mother or father, it’s up to you to dig a little and help him get back on his way to fresher breath. This may mean looking for the best dog food for halitosis to remedy the situation.
The fact that you are reading this now means that you have taken the first steps in finding a cure for your pup’s stinky breath!
Some dogs, like humans, only have smelly mouths. Your dog may just be one of the unfortunate few who indulge in hissing odor for no real reason.
There are also breeds that are more prone to dental disease than others. Whatever your puppy’s situation is, here in this guide we are going to talk about that awful bad breath.
We’ll look at what could cause it, as well as the best dry dog foods with or without a veterinary prescription that can help prevent or delay tooth decay.
This may not be the most enjoyable of topics to read about! But if you love your puppy but not his breath, that’s something you need to do! First, let’s look at the causes of bad breath. Second, let’s follow up with our breakdown of the best dog foods for bad breath to make your pup feel a little cooler when he greets both family and friends. Let’s take a leap!
What Causes Dog Bad Breath?
In the medical world of dogs, bad breath is officially known as halitosis. But before you even consider which nutrition is best for your dog’s bad breath, it’s important to understand what’s causing it. Because there are a number of medical conditions that could be behind your puppy’s stinky breath, we want to take a deeper look to make sure something doesn’t need medical attention before changing foods.
If your puppy has any health problems, we always recommend that you see your vet immediately. They will be better equipped to diagnose any serious problems that may require further analysis. There are several factors that can cause bad breath in dogs and if your beloved dog is suffering, it is likely one of the following reasons:
Poor Oral Hygiene
Just like us humans, if your dog’s teeth aren’t brushed regularly, then expect foul-smelling breath. Your puppy’s breath will start to smell simply due to a buildup of plaque and tartar.
It’s not really rocket science! Many dog owners just think that dog’s stinky breath is only part of the journey. Should not be! Dog bad breath can also be a sign that there may be an underlying cause and additional health problems that you need to consider.
Not only does the plaque and tartar cause stinky breath, but it also begins to break your pup’s gums.
This can expose even more space to the development of pesky bacteria. This will quickly cause sore gums, cavities, infections, and tooth loss.
Periodontal Diseases
Periodontal disease is a collective term to describe infections in the structures surrounding your dog’s teeth. These structures include the gums, the periodontal ligament, and the bony crest around the jaw that contains the cavities of the teeth.
There are four stages of periodontal disease in dogs. It first starts with inflamed gums and stained teeth, known as gingivitis.
It will eventually reach the advanced stages where more than 50% of its connective attachment tissues and gums become rotten.
Then, the roots of his teeth will begin to show. The first signs of periodontal disease are bleeding gums (or the presence of blood on his chew toys), bad breath, and stained teeth.
Unpleasant Habits
Some dogs like to rummage through the trash and eat rotten leftovers. Other dogs like to eat rotten animal carcasses or bones when they are out.
Some dogs like to eat poop. Some are picky and will only eat fox or cat poop, while some dogs will eat all kinds of poop and some dogs will even eat their own! Whatever delicious delicacy your dog prefers is likely to make his breath stink! Don’t worry, your dog isn’t alone.
Research has found that 24% of dogs will try this dog delicacy at least once in their life. Only 16% of them will continue to exist as serial poop eaters.
Kidney And Liver Disease
Dogs don’t just eat poop, they also drink urine sometimes. So, if your dog’s breath smells like urine, then it’s a sign that he may have nephropathy.
Kidney disease can often be a symptom of another bigger problem, so if you notice he is drinking pee or his breath smells of pee, then take him to the vet immediately.
In addition to smelly breath, if your dog’s gums are slightly yellow in color and he is vomiting, this could also be a sign of liver disease. This can be just as devastating and could even be a sign of something more sinister.
Diabetes
If your dog’s breath smells sweet or has a fruity aroma, although it may have a pleasant smell, it can actually be a sign that he has Diabetes. Although this is a serious condition, it is something that can be easily managed once diagnosed and medicated.
So, if you notice a sweet smell or your dog drinks large amounts of water and urinates a lot, have him book a vet appointment immediately.
Breeds Prone To Bad Breath
Some dogs are more prone to periodontal disease and bad breath. This is another important factor to consider when it comes to your dog’s dental hygiene.
However, it’s important to note here that just because your dog doesn’t fall into any of the following categories, it doesn’t mean he’ll be free from the dangers of halitosis and associated diseases.
Small dog breeds, especially toy dogs, are more prone to periodontal disease. Their small mouths are much smaller than larger dogs. They still have to fit the same amount of teeth, so they become much more compact.
Not only does this cause spatial problems, but they are also more likely to suffer from plaque and tartar buildup, gum recession, tooth loss, and, of course, bad breath.
Dogs with tight muzzles, such as the Greyhound or the Whippet to name a couple, are also prone to a variety of dental diseases.
This is simply due to the lack of space in their mouth. It is becoming more and more common for dogs with tight muzzles to also be born with missing teeth. So these dog breeds need that extra bit of dental care.
The Best Foods For Bad Breath
We’ve scoured the market for the best dry dog food that all contributes to healthier, cleaner teeth. Each of the choices below will greatly freshen your pup’s breath.
Keep in mind that there are two different types of dental health foods that we cover below. Some formulas will need a recipe, and some won’t. Foods that don’t require a prescription are the first and are labeled this way.
There are several choices here that depend on the current health of your dog’s teeth. For those younger dogs that have not yet reached the stage of gingivitis or periodontal disease, choosing a high-fiber kibble will help break down accumulated tartar and plaque.
Eventually, it will freshen your dog’s breath. If your dog is medium-sized or larger, there is also the option of having him feed him larger kibble.
This encourages him to chew and munch more, which once again helps break down and remove those bacteria on his teeth and gums. This, of course, is not an option for smaller breeds.
There are also more advanced options for those diagnosed with periodontal disease. In particular, if your vet has prescribed a specific diet for dental care. We have listed three of these kibble at the end of our list, but please note that in order to order them you must present your veterinary prescription in order for your order to be approved.
These diets are designed by veterinarians and nutritionists. These foods are intended for dogs whose teeth are in poor condition. They are made specifically for dogs undergoing professional cleaning and potential surgery.
Again, these recipes will greatly freshen your breath. So, in no particular order, here are our best dry dog food croquettes that are the best on the market and designed specifically for your pup’s bad breath!
5 Best Dog Foods for Bad Breath
Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult Oral Care for Dental Health Dog Food
Reasons to suggest–
- Hill’s Science Diet Oral Care was created specifically for bad breath. It is done without the need for a veterinary prescription.
- Not only is every single kibble textured, it also actively makes your pup’s breath much fresher.
- In addition to natural ingredients, it has added antioxidants such as cranberries and apples, it also contains Vitamin C and E, which contribute to a healthy immune system and its ability to fight disease.
- Hill describes their kibble size as large, which also encourages your dog to nibble and scrape off the tartar even more.
- Many vets have also voted Hill’s Science Diet their number 1 for eating kibble-specific dietary needs. The Science Diet is one of our favorite brands for English Bulldogs and many other breeds.
Taste of The Wild Roasted Lamb High Protein Real Meat Recipes
Reasons to suggest–
- Real lamb is the first ingredient on the list, making it one of Taste Wild’s most popular formulas.
- This is fantastic not only for his protein needs , but also for your pup’s glucosamine and chondroitin needs.
- These nutrients contribute to stronger teeth and bones. It has extra added vitamins and minerals for your dog’s antioxidant needs.
- These ingredients will help support the canine immune system and promote a healthy oxidative state.
- Sweet potatoes, peas, apples, carrots, and dried beetroot pulp are some of the fiber ingredients in this recipe.
- Each ingredient will help erode the plaque buildup in his mouth as he munches on the kibble.
- They also contribute to a healthy digestive system. While this food isn’t made specifically for bad breath, it helps relieve it by not being made of ingredients that could cause it.
Hill’s Prescription Diet Dental Care
Reasons to suggest–
- This recipe received the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of acceptance for helping to reduce the buildup of tartar and plaque buildup, which further helps freshen her breath.
- The special fiber design also means that the kibble actively reduces bacteria in its mouth and has the highest amount of fiber on this list.
- This is not only great for her oral health but also great for those puppies who need help with their digestive health.
- She has also added antioxidants and vitamins that help support her healthy immune system and improve her overall well-being.
Purina Veterinary Diets Dental Chews Canine Treats
Reasons to suggest–
- This recipe is made with real meat flavors your dog will love.
- Despite being a veterinary diet, he will love it as much as any other. Veterinarians, scientists, and nutritionists around the world have come up with this recipe with poor oral hygiene in mind.
- The kibble is also designed with a specific texture that will fit into the spaces between its teeth.
- It is also full of antioxidants and vitamins to support the other areas it needs. This includes supporting a healthy immune system and a healthy coat.
- It is not high in fiber, which makes this recipe a great alternative for those dogs who are not on a highly fibrous diet.
- Purina Pro is one of our favorite food brands for Siberian huskies, as well as other breeds .
ROYAL CANIN Canine Dental Dry – Small Dog
Reasons to suggest–
- This complete and balanced dog food has been specially created to control plaque and tartar build-up, as well as freshen their breath.
- It also provides the balanced nutrition and vitamins she needs to keep her immune system strong and improve her overall health.
- It also has an optimal balance of omega 3 fatty acids that further help strengthen its bones and joint health, as well as DHA ingredients to support eye health and cognitive health.
- This is yet another formula where Royal Canin and Science Diet duel it out for excellent food.
Read This Also:-
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- Best Dog Food For Allergies
- Best Foods For Anal Gland Problems
- Best Dog Foods For Active Dogs
Final Thoughts
So, the ‘tooth’ of the matter is that you need to take care of your dog’s oral hygiene. Not only will this freshen your dog’s breath, it will also reduce the chance of periodontal disease. You will also eliminate the potential for other serious health effects. While many people think dog mouths are much cleaner than we humans, that doesn’t mean they are self-cleaning. Every canine mouth still needs a little extra help!
Bad breath can easily be refreshed with the right high-quality dry dog food. Even if you will still have to brush your teeth and give him dental chew daily, the wrong dog food can still make his breath stink even after all the other steps.
By choosing one of our recommendations above, you will be giving your dog one of the best quality natural foods that will satisfy all of his other needs. This includes lean proteins and antioxidant superfoods. But you get the added bonus that it will help clean your dog’s mouth and turn those teeth pearly whites once again. Stick with one of our picks and you are sure to find the best bad breath dog food for your pup!
