Your dog deserves the best, including the best dental care. National Fresh Breath Day, which is August 6, is the perfect time to highlight that important topic.

What Can Cause Bad Breath

Some of the reasons dogs can get bad breath are:

•       Undesirable behaviors, such as getting into the garbage or other unsanitary activities

•       Food getting stuck between teeth

•       Plaque and tartar building up due to lack of sufficient chewing or brushing

•       Chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, kidney disease or liver disease

That last point might sound scary, but don’t panic. If you have any suspicion of harmful situations related to your dog’s oral hygiene, schedule an appointment with our vets and we can help you find answers.

What To Do About Bad Breath

Like people, dogs are benefitted by regular teeth-brushing. They can’t do it themselves, so you will need to step in and lend them a hand, or maybe two. Brushing reduces and removes plaque buildup and massages their gums. It can also help loosen and sweep out bits of food that may have collected in tight crevices.

To brush your dog’s teeth, select an appropriately sized toothbrush and a toothpaste made for dogs. Human-targeted toothpaste can have ingredients which are dangerous or deadly to dogs, such as xylitol, so it is critically important not to use anything but the specifically dog-friendly versions.

Other Ways to Fight Bad Breath

When brushing is not an option, dogs may still be able to take care of some of it themselves. Providing your dog with appropriate chew toys can stimulate the gums and scrape some of the buildup off, helping your dog stay cleaner in between brushing.

If your dog has oral problems you feel are beyond your scope to deal with, such as teeth that need to be pulled, or you just want your pooch to have extra clean chops, gives us a call at Pet Hospitals of Hawaii to schedule an appointment. We offer a full range of pet dentistry, so we’ll be happy to help you keep your furry friend’s breath fresh!