Dog's Smelly Mouth: Why It Happens & How to Fix It

There could be several reasons for your dog's unpleasant breath:

1. Dental or Gum Issues:

When your dog is suffering from gum disease or has dental problems like cavities, it can lead to bad breath. Often, you can lift your dog's lip to inspect their gums, and you might notice they are very red and inflamed. However, some issues, such as decay below the gum line, are not visible to the naked eye. If you suspect your dog has dental problems, it's best to consult a veterinarian.

2. Kidney Disease:

Metabolic disorders, such as kidney disease or failure, can cause bad breath as well. As kidney function declines, your dog's breath might smell like ammonia. Typically, waste products that the kidneys should excrete build up in the blood and then appear in the patient's breath.

3. Diabetes:

Diabetes, particularly diabetic ketoacidosis, can also result in an unusual smell in your dog's breath, often described as a sweet, almost fruity scent. Uncontrolled diabetes can also "suppress the immune system, allowing bacteria in the mouth to grow unchecked."

4. Diet:

Certain foods can lead to a smelly mouth in dogs, especially wet foods. Since dogs don't brush their teeth, consuming wet food can leave residue in their mouth, which can lead to bacterial growth and bad breath.

5. Oral Tumors:

Oral tumors are another potential cause of bad breath. These tumors often grow rapidly, and the blood vessels can't keep up, leading to dead tissue. Bacteria then take over this dead tissue, often producing a foul odor.