"The Scent of Anxiety: What's Behind Bad Breath in Dogs?"
When your dog refuses food, starts chewing on only one side of his mouth, or has persistent bad breath, it's not just an aesthetic problem. Bad breath (or halitosis) is often a sign of a more serious condition that requires careful diagnosis and timely care.
Let's look at possible causes, tests that can help with diagnosis, and steps toward effective care.
Canine teeth: basics we need to know
- Dogs are born without teeth.
- Baby teeth begin to erupt around week 3. By week 8, most puppies have 28 baby teeth.
- Around 3–6 months of age, the replacement with permanent teeth begins.
- By 7 months of age, the dog already has 42 permanent teeth – 20 in the upper jaw and 22 in the lower.
→ Important: monitor whether the change is proceeding normally, because retained baby teeth can cause tartar and improper alignment.
When should we worry?
- Refusing food or eating with reluctance
- Chewing on only one side of the mouth
- Bad breath that doesn't go away even with dental treats
- Increased salivation, bleeding, or pus around the mouth
- Repeated vomiting, especially if accompanied by other symptoms
What should be investigated?
Laboratory tests:
- Complete blood count – inflammation or anemia
- Biochemical profile – liver and kidney function
- Pancreatic enzymes (Lipase, Amylase, cPL)
- Urine test – kidney function, infections, metabolic abnormalities
Imaging studies:
- Oral X-rays – for abscesses, roots, and hidden problems
- Abdominal ultrasound – if systemic diseases are suspected
Physical examination and oral inspection:
- Checking for tartar, inflammation, foreign bodies
- Examination of lymph nodes and reaction to touch
What does the smell give off?
- → Sweet, fruity breath — diabetes
- → Smell of urine or ammonia — kidney failure
- → Metallic or rotten smell — liver dysfunction
- → A sharp, putrid odor — periodontal disease or abscess
How are teeth cleaned professionally?
At the vet:
- Cleaning with an ultrasonic scaler under anesthesia
- Removal of tartar below and above the gums
- Polishing and checking for damaged teeth
- Tooth extraction if necessary
At the groomer:
- Surface cleaning with brush and paste
- Does not reach below the gum and is not suitable for inflammation
→ Rotation: Groomer once a month, professional cleaning every 6–12 months
What risks does an untreated problem pose?
- Chronic mouth infections
- Loss of teeth and gum tissue
- Spread of bacteria into the blood → endocarditis
- Impaired liver, kidney and pancreas function
What to do if a tooth falls out during grooming?
- Stop cleaning immediately
- Clean the area with an antiseptic (as recommended by your veterinarian)
- Visit a vet – possible infection or need for treatment
Home dental care
- Brushing teeth 2–3 times a week with dog toothpaste
- Dental treats (vet approved)
- Crunchy vegetables like carrots
- Water additives with antiseptic effect
❗ Bad breath is a symptom, not just an inconvenience. Timely care means a healthy, calm dog and fewer risks in the future.