Best Dog Food for Bad Breath

Let’s face it, a dog’s bad breath can be pretty gross. It can make you recoil when they give you a wet kiss and make spending time with them a bit, dare we say, unpleasant. 

While bad breath in dogs is often common, it can be a sign of a more serious underlying issue. Fear not, there is a solution, and it starts with the food you feed your furry friend. In this post, we’ll explore the reasons behind your dog’s bad breath, how to get rid of it and what to feed your dog to keep their breath smelling fresh.

Why Does My Dog's Breath Smell So Bad?

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from bad breath. One of the main causes is poor dental hygiene. Dogs who do not have their teeth brushed regularly accumulate plaque, which can cause a foul-smelling odour. It can also lead to gum disease which can further exacerbate the problem. 

Another reason for poor breath in dogs is their diet. Low quality commercial dog food is packed with sugars that can cause tooth decay and bad breath.

Finally, bad breath can also be caused by an underlying health condition such as kidney disease, diabetes or an infection.

Is Bad Breath in Dogs a Sign of Illness?

In some cases, bad breath in dogs can be a sign of illness.

Dogs with kidney disease, an infection, diabetes or even liver disease can all have bad breath. If their bad breath is accompanied by vomiting, lethargy or loss of appetite, it’s important to seek advice from your vet as soon as possible. 

How to Get Rid of Dog’s Bad Breath

Maintaining good dental hygiene is the best way to get rid of your dog’s bad breath. Regular brushing with a dog toothbrush and toothpaste can help remove plaque buildup. However, if your dog is anything like our squad dogs, brushing their teeth is not an easy task.

So, an alternative option is to include foods that help promote dental health in their diet. Foods that are high in fibre such as sweet potato can help break down plaque and keep their teeth clean. Another great ingredient is seaweed, which naturally breaks down plaque.

Are Dental Sticks Good for Dogs?

Dental sticks can help improve your dog’s dental hygiene through abrasion and added ingredients, such as mint, can help to mask the smell. While they can be effective to an extent, they should be used as a supplement to regular brushing or a dental-focused diet. 

It's much better to choose dental sticks that contain natural, plaque-reducing ingredients, such as seaweed, rather than any harsh chemicals.

What to Feed a Dog with Bad Breath

The best food for dogs with bad breath is fresh, high-quality food. Commercial dry and wet food is not a great option as they are high in sugars that can cause tooth decay and bad breath. 

Freshly cooked food with ingredients that promote dental health such as sweet potato, carrots, seaweed and cranberries can make a huge difference in your dog’s overall health and bad breath.

Why Butternut Box is Perfect for Dogs with Bad Breath

At Butternut Box, we only use human-grade fresh ingredients that are free from any nasty preservatives, additives or salting agents that are found in commercial dog food. Our meals are tailored to your dog’s needs, specific to their breed, age, lifestyle and health requirements. 

We use lots of natural ingredients such as sweet potato and seaweed, which are great for breaking down plaque and maintaining good dental hygiene. You can even choose a recipe that will appeal to picky eaters and fussy dogs. If you’re looking to help your furry friend's dental health, Butternut Box is a great option.