Reviewed by Dr. Terry White, DVM
Are you noticing your dog having bad breath? If you’ve found yourself looking for quick, natural, and effective solutions, you’re not alone.
Luckily, there are many simple, natural remedies for bad dog breath that you can implement right at home.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through some of the best home remedies for bad dog breath. We’ll also explore the reasons behind bad breath in dogs, how to identify when it’s a sign of something more serious, and offer tips to keep your dog's mouth clean and healthy long-term.
Why Does My Dog Have Bad Breath?
Before jumping into remedies, it’s essential to understand the root cause of your dog’s bad breath. Bad breath (also known as halitosis) can be the result of several factors:
Plaque and Tartar Build-Up: Just like in humans, plaque can build up on your dog’s teeth if they aren’t cleaned regularly. This can harden into tartar, causing bad odors. In more severe cases, this leads to gum disease or tooth decay.
Dietary Habits: Dogs aren’t picky when it comes to what they put in their mouths. Whether it’s scavenging food scraps, eating poop, or chewing on random objects, these habits can all contribute to bad breath.
Health Problems: In some cases, bad breath can be a sign of deeper health issues, like diabetes, kidney disease, or liver disease. If your dog’s breath has a fruity smell (diabetes) or smells like ammonia (kidney issues), it’s important to see a vet.
Home Remedies for Dog’s Bad Breath
Once you’ve ruled out any serious health concerns with your vet, you can try several homemade remedies to help improve your dog’s bad breath.
1. Brush Your Dog’s Teeth
The simplest and most effective remedy for bad breath is regular tooth brushing. While it might be a bit of a challenge at first, getting your dog used to having their teeth brushed can significantly reduce plaque build-up and eliminate bad breath. You’ll want to use a toothbrush specifically designed for dogs along with dog-safe toothpaste (never use human toothpaste, as it contains toxic ingredients for dogs).
Tip: Start slow. Let your dog sniff the toothbrush and toothpaste before attempting to brush. Gradually introduce them to the sensation of brushing their teeth.
2. Carrots for Cleaner Teeth
One lesser-known, but highly effective natural remedy is raw carrots. Not only are carrots healthy for your dog, but their crunchy texture acts as a natural toothbrush, scraping away plaque and food particles. This makes them a great, low-effort option for freshening your dog’s breath. Plus, most dogs love the taste!
How It Works: Give your dog a raw carrot to chew on a few times a week. The chewing motion helps reduce plaque and tartar build-up, naturally freshening their breath over time.
3. Coconut Oil for Fresh Breath
Coconut oil is a popular "natural remedy for bad dog breath" among pet owners. It has antibacterial properties, which help to eliminate harmful bacteria in the mouth, reducing odors. Adding a teaspoon of coconut oil to your dog’s food or using it as a toothpaste substitute can help keep their breath smelling fresh.
Bonus: Coconut oil can also improve your dog’s coat and overall health.
4. Parsley or Mint Leaves
Adding fresh parsley or mint leaves to your dog’s food is another natural remedy that dog owners swear by. These herbs are known for their ability to neutralize bad odors and provide a breath-freshening boost.
How to Use It: Chop up a small amount of parsley or mint and mix it into your dog’s food. Be sure to use fresh herbs, as dried versions won’t have the same effect.
5. Dental Chews and Treats
While brushing and diet changes are essential, using dental chews can be an easy and effective way to reduce bad breath. Dental treats are designed to clean teeth and gums while being chewed. They often contain ingredients like mint or parsley to help freshen breath.
Important Note: Be sure to choose treats that are approved by veterinary organizations like the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) to ensure they are safe and effective.
6. Apple Cider Vinegar Water Additive
Another popular homemade remedy for dog’s bad breath is adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to your dog’s water bowl. The vinegar helps balance the bacteria in your dog’s mouth, improving breath over time.
How to Use It: Add about a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to your dog’s water once a day. Make sure it’s diluted, as too much vinegar can upset your dog’s stomach.
7. Yogurt for Gut Health
Sometimes, bad breath stems from digestive issues. Adding a small amount of plain, unsweetened yogurt to your dog’s diet can introduce healthy probiotics, which may help with digestion and reduce bad breath.
Tip: Avoid yogurts with added sugar or artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which are toxic to dogs.
Are You Seeing Your Dog with Runny Nose?
We can help! EverPal's Medical Director, Dr. Terry White, brings 40 years of experience and is ready to meet your fur baby same-day for any concerns about your dog's health. Each visit is twice as long as your typical in-office visit, allowing our veterinarian to understand your dog's unique needs, explain multiple treatment options, and provide thorough guidance on environmental adjustments and treament plan.
Experience better vet care with maximum comfort for your fur baby. Schedule your online vet visit today.
Virtual vet visits are currently available for residents in California. We are more than veterinary telemedicine - diagnostic testing available in San Francisco, Daly City, South San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, San Mateo and the San Francisco Bay Area. Medications are delivered to your home.
Comments