If your dog has stinky breath, you’re not alone. Bad breath in dogs, also called halitosis, is often more than just a minor inconvenience, it can be a sign of dental disease or other health issues. Luckily, with the right care, you can keep your dog’s teeth, gums, and breath healthy while making those close-up cuddles a lot more pleasant.
Why does my dog’s breath smell?
Bad breath in dogs can pop up for all sorts of reasons, some harmless, others more serious. Let’s sniff out the main culprits.
They’ve eaten something smelly
Dogs are natural scavengers and will sometimes eat things we’d rather they didn’t, including food waste, faeces (coprophagia), or even animal remains. Food can also become lodged between the teeth and can create an unpleasant smell. Even certain dog foods, particularly wet pet foods, may temporarily affect your dog’s breath. Usually, this fades once the food passes through their system or the mouth naturally clears itself.
Dental disease
Dental disease in dogs is by far the most likely suspect. In fact, 80% of dogs over the age of three show signs of dental problems. It starts when bacteria in the mouth form plaque and tartar on the teeth. Over time, plaque buildup can cause gingivitis, inflaming the gums and tissues that hold teeth in place.
If dental disease is left untreated, it can progress to bone loss around the teeth, leading to loose or lost teeth. In some cases, dogs may also develop a tooth root abscess
It’s their diet
A dog’s gut health can have a big impact on their breath. Just like in humans, a balanced gut microbiome is key for digestion and overall wellbeing. Feeding your dog too many fatty foods or sugary treats can upset that balance, letting “bad” bacteria take over and causing unpleasant breath.
Adverse food reactions can also play a part, leading to digestive discomfort that shows up as stinky breath. Dogs with acid reflux may get a sour smell from stomach acids coming up into the mouth.
Skin Infections
If your dog has a bacterial skin infection or a paw yeast infection and is licking the affected areas frequently, the odour from the infection can mix with their breath. If the infection is near the lips or mouth, the smell you notice might actually be coming from the infection, not their teeth.
Their breed is prone to bad breath
Some breeds are naturally more prone to dental issues and smelly breath. A study has indicated that Toy Poodles, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Greyhounds, and King Charles Spaniels tend to be particularly affected. In general, flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds and many spaniel types face a higher risk of dental disease.
Smaller dogs are also more prone to oral health issues compared to larger breeds. Additionally, studies show that the likelihood of dental problems rises significantly as dogs get older, making regular dental care even more important for senior pets.
Hidden Health Issues
Sometimes dog bad breath can point to deeper health concerns:
Diabetes can give the breath a sweet or fruity smell. Dogs may also drink and urinate more than usual or experience changes in weight or appetite.
Liver issues can reduce the organ’s ability to filter toxins effectively, causing waste products to circulate in the body and contribute to unpleasant breath.
Kidney problems may lead to a sharp, ammonia-like odour as toxins build up in the bloodstream.
Heart disease can weaken circulation and the immune system, which sometimes results in ongoing oral infections and bad breath.
Oral tumours can trap bacteria, bleed, or become infected, causing persistent odours that won’t improve with brushing or dietary changes.
Signs Your Dog May Be Experiencing Dental Problems
Look out for the following symptoms:
- Persistent bad breath – Often one of the earliest signs of dental disease
- Tartar or plaque build-up on the teeth
- Discoloured teeth, which may indicate decay or damage
- Loose, broken, or missing teeth – A sign of advanced dental disease
- Facial swelling, which can point to a tooth abscess or infection
- Pawing at the mouth or face, suggesting pain or irritation
- Dropping food or difficulty chewing and holding food
- Reluctance to eat hard food, such as dry kibble or chews
- Reduced interest in socialising or playing, as dental pain can affect mood
- Excessive drooling, especially if it appears suddenly
- Blood in the water bowl, on toys, or around the mouth
- Nasal discharge or frequent sneezing, which can be linked to tooth root infections
- Loss of appetite, often due to discomfort when eating
If you notice one or more of these signs, it’s best to book a veterinary check-up as early intervention can prevent further pain and more serious health issues.
What can I do to treat and prevent my dog’s stinky breath?
Regularly brushing your dog’s teeth
Brushing your dog’s teeth is by far the most effective way to keep their mouth healthy and their gums in great and should not be replaced by dietary alternatives. Using a toothbrush and toothpaste made specially for dogs means you’re gently lifting away plaque before it can settle in. Of course, getting your dog to sit still for this little ritual isn’t always easy, which is why introducing brushing when they’re young can make the whole process feel natural rather than scary.
If you’re starting later in life, that’s absolutely fine too. Take it slowly and keep each session light and positive. A calm voice, a tasty reward and lots of praise can help turn tooth brushing into a bonding moment rather than a battle.
Give your dog dental chews and toys
Chewing does more than relieve boredom, it naturally helps clean teeth. Providing a mix of durable chew toys and a few natural chewy treats or natural dental sticks can support daily oral care.
Alongside brushing, carefully chosen treats can also support fresher breath. For dogs with sensitivities, hypoallergenic options made with simple, natural ingredients can help reduce odour without upsetting digestion. Treats like STINK Hypoallergenic Dog Treats are designed to support oral health while being gentle on sensitive tummies.
Think about their diet and water
Feeding your dog high-quality, whole foods like proteins, vegetables and fruits, along with gut-friendly supplements such as probiotics, postbiotics or prebiotics can support digestive health and reduce bad breath. Fresh, clean water is also essential for keeping your pup hydrated, flushing out toxins and maintaining a healthy mouth and gut.
Talk to your vet
A vet can identify the root cause and recommend the most appropriate solution, whether that’s a professional dental clean, dietary adjustments, or treatment for an underlying health condition. Professional dental cleanings remove tartar below the gum line, preventing pain, infection, and tooth loss.
Homemade dog-friendly recipe for dental health
Natural Dental & Fresh Breath Dog Treats
Ingredients:
- 1 cup oat flour
- ½ cup unsweetened pumpkin puree
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 1–2 tsp finely chopped fresh parsley (fresh breath booster)
- ¼ cup Stink Hypoallergenic Dog Treats, crushed
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a baking tray.
- Mix oat flour, crushed Stink treats, and parsley in a bowl.
- In another bowl, combine pumpkin, egg, and coconut oil.
- Mix wet and dry ingredients into a firm dough.
- Shape into small balls or flatten on the tray.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until firm.
- Cool completely before serving. Store in an airtight container.
Benefits:
- Crunchy texture helps clean teeth.
- Parsley helps naturally freshen breath.
- Pumpkin & coconut oil helps support gums and digestion.
- Stink treats keep it tasty and hypoallergenic.
