The words gross and ewww were probably first used by cavemen to describe deadly doggy breath.

At Animal Care Center of Castle Pines, a common question we get is: Why do dogs have bad breath? Your pet is not trying to offend you, but his anti-social dog breath might make you want to run away from home. Here are some of the primary reasons why his breath might need serious attention:

Plaque and Periodontal Disease

Just like people, dogs are susceptible to plaque and tartar build-up on their teeth. Plaque is one of the primary causes of bad breath. Poor or non-existent oral hygiene will inevitably lead to bacterial plaque formation. Over time, plaque buildup can cause gum and tissue infection, bone decay, and even tooth loss. The best way to correct this problem is to have us professionally clean your pet's teeth. It is best to start with a clean canvas as you learn proper dental care for your pet.

Questionable Dietary Habits

Dogs are often prone to getting into foul-smelling things. They will root through garbage if they have access to it. They also may get into the cat's litter box. If you have cats indoors, keep the litter box covered and away from your dog. Some dogs will eat their own waste as well-not only is this not healthy for your pup, it may be one of the causes of his rotten breath! Be sure to let us know if this is the case and we can give you some tips for stopping this habit.

Deeper Issues

Periodontal disease can be directly related to other issues going on within the body. Patients who have compromised immune systems, such as diabetics, patients with heart or liver disease can see these conditions exacerbated by poor dental health. Additionally, patients with severe periodontal disease can develop organ problems from the bacterial overload that finds its way into their bloodstream. Good dental health is important for all of our pets for this reason.

Knowing why your dog has stinky breath is the first step in solving the problem. At your next appointment, Animal Care Center of Castle Pines can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend a treatment plan. We can even teach you how to brush your pet's teeth to give him a winning grin. Call us today for an appointment and we will get him or her on the path to fresh breath and better health!