06 Jun Is it Just Bad Breath or a Serious Dental Issue? When to be Concerned
If you’ve ever gotten a little too close to your dog’s mouth and caught a whiff of unpleasant breath, you’re not alone. While a dog’s breath may never be minty-fresh, foul-smelling breath isn’t normal, and it’s often a sign that something more serious is going on beneath the surface.
What Causes Bad Breath in Dogs?
The technical term for bad breath is halitosis, and in dogs, the most common cause is dental disease, particularly periodontal disease. As plaque and bacteria accumulate along the gumline and beneath the surface of the gums, they begin to affect not just the teeth but also the tissues and bone that support them.
Other possible causes of halitosis in dogs include:
- Retained food particles or debris between teeth
- Oral infections, such as tooth root abscesses
- Gingivitis or periodontitis (gum inflammation or advanced gum disease)
- Oral tumors or growths in the mouth
- Systemic conditions, such as kidney disease or diabetes (less common, but can affect the breath)
What’s “Normal” Dog Breath?
Dog breath isn’t supposed to smell like roses, but it shouldn’t be offensive or make you turn away. A mild, slightly “doggy” scent is expected, especially after meals. However, if your dog’s breath suddenly becomes strong, sour, metallic, or rotten-smelling, this is a red flag.
Watch for other symptoms, including:
- Excessive drooling
- Difficulty chewing or dropping food
- Bleeding from the mouth
- Pawing at the face
- Loose or discolored teeth
These signs suggest there may be oral pain or infection, and your pet should be examined promptly.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Bad Breath
A change in your dog’s breath, especially if they haven’t had recent professional dental care, is often the first clue of periodontal disease. This condition is not just a mouth problem; it’s a whole-body concern. Bacteria from dental infections can enter the bloodstream and impact the heart, kidneys, and liver.
Unfortunately, dental disease in dogs progresses silently, and many pets won’t show obvious signs of discomfort until the disease is advanced.
If your dog has never had a professional dental cleaning or if it’s been over a year since their last one, and their breath has noticeably worsened, it’s time to schedule a consultation. At Veterinary Dental Specialists of Wisconsin, we can perform a comprehensive oral exam, take dental X-rays and CT imaging, and identify problems that aren’t visible to the naked eye.
Preventing Bad Breath in Dogs: Brushing & Home Care
The best way to prevent bad breath and dental disease? Regular brushing.
Daily brushing with a pet-safe toothpaste helps remove plaque before it hardens into tartar. Brushing every day can make a noticeable difference in your pet’s oral health (and breath).
Additional steps you can take:
- Use VOHC-approved dental chews or rinses (The Veterinary Oral Health Council has a website with products that have been studied by them. vohc.org)
- Offer safe chew toys that help reduce plaque
- Schedule annual dental exams and cleanings under anesthesia
- Monitor for any changes in breath or chewing behavior
Let’s Make That Smile Shine Again
At Veterinary Dental Specialists of WI, we specialize in identifying and treating dental issues in dogs and cats—whether it’s early gum disease or more advanced conditions requiring surgical care.
If your dog’s breath has changed and they haven’t had recent dental care, don’t wait. Periodontal disease is progressive but treatable, and early intervention can prevent pain, tooth loss, and further complications.
Schedule a consultation today, and let’s get to the bottom of your pet’s bad breath—for their comfort and your peace of mind.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (09/23/2025) Photo by Julian Hochgesang on Unsplash