{"id":11345,"date":"2025-04-04T04:15:12","date_gmt":"2025-04-04T09:15:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/?p=11345"},"modified":"2025-04-03T09:44:12","modified_gmt":"2025-04-03T14:44:12","slug":"bad-breath-in-dogs-a-sign-of-illness","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/bad-breath-in-dogs-a-sign-of-illness\/","title":{"rendered":"Is Bad Breath In Dogs A Sign Of Illness\u200b"},"content":{"rendered":"

Is Bad Breath in Dogs a Sign of Illness? Bad breath doesn\u2019t always indicate illness, says Ashly Smith, DVM, regional medical director for Small Door Veterinary. \u201cMild or temporary bad breath often results from dietary choices or licking smelly things,\u201d Dr. Smith explains. \u201cHowever, persistent bad breath usually signals an underlying issue, such as dental disease or a systemic health condition, so pet parents shouldn\u2019t ignore it.\u201d<\/p>\n

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What Causes Bad Breath in Dogs?<\/h3>\n

If your dog\u2019s bad breath isn\u2019t just the result of a questionable backyard snack, it could point to a more serious issue.<\/p>\n

The most common causes of bad breath in dogs include:<\/p>\n

Periodontal Disease<\/h4>\n

\u201cPeriodontal disease, caused by plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth, most commonly leads to bad breath in dogs,\u201d says Ray Spragley, DVM, founder of Zen Dog Veterinary Care<\/a><\/span> in Tuckahoe, New York. This buildup harbors bacteria that release foul-smelling sulfur compounds.<\/p>\n

Without treatment, periodontal disease can cause infection, tooth decay, and abscesses, which worsen bad breath.<\/p>\n

Foreign Objects Stuck in Teeth or Mouth<\/h4>\n

Dogs that chew on bones, toys, ropes, or sticks risk lodging foreign objects between their teeth or inside their mouths. If left untreated, these objects…along with cuts or scrapes in the mouth…can cause infections that lead to bad breath.<\/p>\n

Ingesting Something Stinky or Toxic<\/h4>\n

\u201cDogs that scavenge or eat inappropriate items, like garbage or feces, may develop temporary bad breath,\u201d Dr. Smith says.<\/p>\n

Bad breath can also signal that your dog has ingested something toxic, such as certain plants, chemicals, or human foods like onions or garlic.<\/p>\n

\"IsIf you suspect poisoning, contact your vet or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 immediately. A consultation fee applies.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

Gastrointestinal Issues<\/h4>\n

Digestive problems…whether caused by food allergies, a poor diet, or chronic inflammation…can lead to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the gut.<\/p>\n

This condition, known as \u201cdysbiosis,\u201d can trigger acid reflux, poor nutrient absorption, and the release of gases from undigested food, all of which contribute to bad breath.<\/p>\n

Kidney Disease<\/h4>\n

If your dog\u2019s breath smells like ammonia (urine), it often signals kidney disease.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhen the kidneys fail to function properly, toxins called urea accumulate in the blood, leading to distinctly bad breath,\u201d Dr. Spragley explains.<\/p>\n

Dogs with kidney disease typically show other symptoms, including vomiting, increased thirst, frequent urination, and lethargy.<\/p>\n

Liver Disease<\/h4>\n

A malfunctioning liver struggles to filter toxins from the bloodstream, which can result in foul-smelling breath.<\/p>\n

Other signs of liver disease include vomiting, diarrhea, and a yellowish tint in the gums and eyes.<\/p>\n

\"IsDiabetes<\/h4>\n

\u201cDiabetes can make a dog\u2019s breath smell sweet,\u201d Dr. Spragley says. \u201cThis happens because of extremely high glucose levels in the bloodstream.\u201d<\/p>\n

Other symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst, weight loss, and frequent urination.<\/p>\n

Oral Tumors<\/h4>\n

Both benign and malignant oral tumors can cause bad breath due to tissue decay and infection in the affected area, Dr. Smith explains. These growths might also make eating or chewing difficult for your dog.<\/p>\n

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Did you find this article\u00a0useful?<\/strong> <\/em>Would you like 100% free access to more articles like these, and free access to over 5,000 vetted pet care service professionals<\/a><\/span> throughout the United States? Sign up here <\/a><\/span>for a free Petworks account, and take 10% off your first booking, on us!<\/p>\n

How Do Vets Treat Bad Breath in Dogs?<\/h3>\n

If your dog has persistent bad breath or any other unusual symptoms, take them to the vet immediately.<\/p>\n

The vet will conduct a thorough examination, which may include:<\/p>\n

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  • \n

    Checking the teeth and gums<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

  • \n

    Assessing the mouth for injuries or infections<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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    Performing blood work or imaging to rule out systemic issues like kidney or liver disease<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    Treatment depends on the diagnosis:<\/p>\n

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    • \n

      For dental disease, the vet may recommend a professional cleaning or tooth extraction.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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      Infections or injuries may require antibiotics or other medications, such as pain relievers.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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      Systemic conditions like diabetes or kidney disease will need specific treatments to manage the underlying issue.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n