Smelly breath remedy for dogs

We all adore our furry companions, but let’s be honest—nothing tests that love quite like a whiff of smelly dog breath. While it’s often written off as “normal,” bad breath in dogs can be a signal that something deeper is going on with their health. Fortunately, with a holistic approach that focuses on diet, dental hygiene, and overall wellbeing, you can tackle the root causes and give your dog the fresh breath they (and you) deserve.

1. Prioritise Dental Hygiene

Regular Brushing:
Just like us, dogs need regular tooth brushing. Use a dog-specific toothbrush and a natural, enzymatic toothpaste made with safe ingredients like coconut oil or baking soda. These help reduce plaque, tartar, and bacteria buildup that cause bad breath.

Natural Chews:
Skip the chemical-laden dental treats. Instead, offer raw bones that naturally scrape away plaque. Bully sticks, organic chicken feet, and turkey wings are also great natural options that clean teeth while keeping your dog entertained.

2. Rethink Diet and Nutrition

Whole Foods Diet:
Feeding a species-appropriate, whole foods diet can drastically reduce bad breath by improving your dog’s digestion and immune function. Think high-quality proteins, fresh veggies, and healthy fats—no fillers or preservatives.

Probiotics:
A healthy gut = a fresher mouth. Digestive issues can cause foul breath, and probiotics help balance the microbiome, reducing odors at the source.

Natural Fresheners:

• Parsley: Add fresh parsley to meals. It’s not just decorative—it has antimicrobial properties and helps neutralize odors.
• Carrots and Apples: Crunchy snacks like raw carrot sticks or apple slices clean teeth naturally while offering nutritional value.

3. Herbal and Natural Remedies

Coconut Oil:
Antibacterial and delicious, coconut oil can be added to meals or used for brushing. It supports oral health and digestion.

Mint Leaves:
A few fresh mint leaves in your dog’s food or water can go a long way toward freshening their breath—just avoid mint oil, which can be too strong.

4. Support Hydration

Fresh Water:
Hydration helps flush bacteria and food debris from the mouth. Make sure your dog always has access to clean, fresh water.

5. Improve Digestive Health

Digestive Enzymes:
If your dog’s breath has a “rotten” edge, digestion might be to blame. Enzymes help break down food more completely, reducing odor-causing fermentation in the gut.

Pumpkin:
A spoonful of plain baked or cooked pumpkin improves digestion and adds fiber, helping eliminate toxins that might be contributing to bad breath.

6. Schedule Regular Check-Ups

Even the best diet and dental routine won’t help if an underlying condition—like kidney disease, diabetes, or liver issues—is at play. Routine vet visits help detect these issues early and keep your dog healthy from the inside out.

7. Maintain a Clean Environment

Clean Bowls and Toys:
Food and water bowls, as well as chew toys, should be cleaned regularly to prevent bacteria buildup. What your dog chews on directly affects their oral health.

Bad breath isn’t just unpleasant—it’s a sign your dog might need some extra care. By taking a holistic, natural approach to their health and hygiene, you’re not just freshening their breath—you’re giving them a better quality of life. As always, consult your holistic canine nutritionist before making major changes to your dog’s diet or adding new supplements.

Your dog can’t tell you what’s wrong—but with the right tools, you can listen to what their breath is trying to say.