Why You Need Dog Treats for Bad Breath
Bad breath in dogs is a common concern for pet owners. One way to combat this issue is by choosing the best dog treats for bad breath. Like humans, dogs can suffer from halitosis, indicating underlying dental or health issues.
This article will explore the eight best dog chews for bad breath, helping you keep your furry friend’s breath fresh and their oral health in check.
Why Does My Dog Have Bad Breath?
Before we dive into the best treats for bad breath, it’s crucial to understand what causes bad breath in dogs. Here are some of the most common causes:
Poor Oral Hygiene
This is one of the most frequent causes of bad canine breath. If your dog’s teeth and gums aren’t adequately cared for, plaque and tartar can build up, creating an unpleasant odor. Bacteria accumulation in the mouth can result in foul-smelling breath.
Solution: Brush your dog’s teeth and gums regularly to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. You can use a dog toothbrush and toothpaste, both available at pet stores. Establishing a routine for dental care is vital in maintaining your dog’s oral health.
Gum Disease
Also known as periodontal disease, it can significantly contribute to bad breath. It is a progressive condition that starts with gingivitis, causing inflammation and redness of the gums. As it advances, it can lead to tooth decay, loss, and increasingly foul breath.
Solution: If you suspect gum disease, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian. They can perform a dental examination and recommend appropriate treatment, including professional cleaning and sometimes extractions.
Diet and Digestive Issues
What your dog consumes can significantly affect their breath. Certain foods, especially those with strong odors, can lead to bad breath. Additionally, dogs with digestive problems, such as acid reflux or gastrointestinal issues, may have breath that smells less than fresh.
Solution: Consider adjusting your dog’s diet to see if a change in food helps improve their breath. Opt for high-quality dog food and avoid feeding them table scraps, which can contribute to bad breath. If digestive issues persist, consult your veterinarian for advice.
Foreign Objects or Injuries
Bad breath can sometimes result from foreign objects stuck in your dog’s mouth or injuries to the oral cavity. These can lead to bacterial infections and unpleasant odors.
Solution: Carefully inspect your dog’s mouth if you suspect a foreign object or injury. If you find anything unusual, seek immediate veterinary attention.
Underlying Health Issues
Sometimes, a dog’s bad breath can indicate underlying health issues, like diabetes, kidney disease, or liver issues. These conditions can affect the dog’s metabolism, leading to changes in their breath.
Solution: If your dog’s breath is persistently bad and you’ve ruled out other causes, consult your veterinarian. They can conduct tests to diagnose and address any potential health issues.
Our Preferred Dog Breath Treat
Our favorite dog breath treat is the ARK NATURALS Protection+ Brushless Toothpaste Dog Dental Chews. These natural dog treats for bad breath are great for getting rid of tartar and plague even before they build up. Also, they support healthy gums by forming a protective barrier around your dog’s teeth.
An Overview of Other Dog Dental Treats
- ARK NATURALS Protection+ Brushless Toothpaste Dog Dental Chews: Best overall
- ORAVET Dental Chews for Dogs, Oral Care and Hygiene Chews: Best individually-wrapped dog chews
- Minties VetIQ Dog Dental Bone Treats: Best dog breath bones
- Pedigree Dentastix Large Treats For Dogs: Best value pack
- Whimzees Natural Grain-Free Daily Dental Long-Lasting Dog Treats: Best long-lasting dog treats
- GREENIES Original Large Natural Dog Dental Care Chews: Best for daily use
- Petlab Co. Fresh Breath Bundle: Dog Dental Formula: Best dental care bundle
- Merrick Fresh Kisses Oral Care Dental Dog Treats: Best flavored dog treats
Unpacking the Best Treats for Bad Dog Breath
ARK NATURALS Protection+ Brushless Toothpaste Dog Dental Chews: Best Overall
Amazon’s Choice in Dog Toothpaste by ARK NATURALS
Brand: ARK NATURALS
Breed range: All breeds
Form: Chew
Material type-free: Wheat-free, soy-free, gluten-free
General Description
ARK NATURALS Protection+ Brushless Toothpaste perfectly meets the needs of all dog breeds. It comes in a 5-in-1 package with antioxidant power that supports healthy gums. These dental chews are not only treats but also a proactive way to maintain your dog’s oral health.
The innovative formula helps prevent plaque and tartar formation, reducing the risk of dental problems. They contain natural ingredients, like vanilla, clove, and cinnamon, to fight bad breath-causing bacteria. This makes them a safe and healthy choice for your dog. They do not have artificial flavors or preservatives.
ORAVET Dental Chews for Dogs, Oral Care and Hygiene Chews: Best Individually-Wrapped Dog Chews
Amazon’s Choice in Dog Treat Cookies, Biscuits & Snacks by OraVet
Brand: Oravet
Age range: 50 lbs (22kg) dogs over six months of age
Form: Chew
Material type-free: non-GMO, rawhide-free
General Description
Oravet Dental Chews is a trusted solution for maintaining your dog’s oral health and hygiene. They provide advanced dental care for your dog. These fresh-breath dog treats help prevent the formation of plaque and tartar, which might lead to serious dental issues.
Additionally, These chews feature a dual-action mechanism. They work to physically remove plaque and tartar from the teeth while also creating a protective barrier to prevent the adhesion of bacteria to the teeth.
These chewy, soft dog treats come individually wrapped for long-term freshness. Veterinarians highly recommend this product to ensure you use a trusted and effective product for your dog’s oral care.
Minties VetIQ Dog Dental Bone Treats: Best Dog Breath Bones
Amazon’s Choice in Dog Treat Cookies, Biscuits & Snacks by Minties
Brand: Minties
Flavor/s: Chicken, salmon, mint bones, vanilla twists
Breed range: All breeds
Form: Chew
Material type-free: Gluten-free
General Description
Minties VetIQ Dog Dental Bone Treats are well-formulated to provide essential dental care for your dog. They help in preventing the formation of plaque and tartar, minimizing the chances of dental complications.
These bones for dog breath effectively promote dental hygiene and freshen your dog’s breath. Say goodbye to unpleasant odors during close moments with your pet. They contain natural ingredients, ensuring a safe and healthy choice for your dog.
Pedigree Dentastix Large Treats For Dogs: Best Value Pack
Brand: Pedigree
Flavor/s: Mint, chicken
Breed range: Large breed adults
Form: Stick
Material type-free: Rawhide-free
General Description
Pedigree Dentastix Large Treats for Dogs is a well-regarded choice for pet parents looking to maintain their dog’s oral health. These treats are ideal for promoting dental hygiene and offering a delicious treat for your furry friend.
These products for dogs with bad breath provide essential dental care for your dog. They feature a unique X-shape design that allows them to reach all areas of your dog’s mouth, including those difficult-to-reach spots. This design is effective in reducing plaque and tartar buildup.
Whimzees Natural Grain-Free Daily Dental Long-Lasting Dog Treats: Best Long Lasting Dog Treats
Brand: Whimzees
Form: Stick
Material type-free: Gluten-free, grain-free, non-GMO
General Description
Whimzees Natural Grain-Free Daily Dental Long Lasting Dog Treats are a fantastic choice for pet owners seeking to maintain their dog’s oral health while providing a tasty, long-lasting treat. They are ideal for boosting dental hygiene and offer a fun, chewable treat for your furry friend.
These treats for dog breath have a knobby design that helps to reduce tartar accumulation and bad breath while ensuring adequate blood flow through the gums. Your dog’s teeth can grasp and chew them more easily thanks to their hollow shapes and gaps with grooves between smaller areas.
They are low in fat, high in vitamins and antioxidants, and enhanced with fiber to help with bowel regularity and support healthy digestion. They are great for oral health and suitable for dogs with dietary sensitivities. Additionally, they are grain-free and made with natural ingredients, safe for your dog.
GREENIES Original Large Natural Dog Dental Care Chews: Best for Daily Use
Brand: Greenies
Flavor/s:
- Sweet potato
- Chicken
- Blueberry
- Pumpkin spice
Material type-free: Natural, non-GMO
General Description
Greenies Original Large Natural Dog Dental Care Chews are a popular choice for pet parents looking to maintain their dog’s oral health and hygiene. These dental chews help promote healthy teeth and gums, prevent plaque and tartar buildup, and offer a delicious treat that your furry friend will enjoy.
These soft dog treats for bad breath are both delicious and nutritious. They contain high-quality, natural ingredients that guarantee safety for your dog. They do not contain artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors.
The unique texture of Greenies dental chews is well-designed to clean your dog’s teeth as they chew, ensuring a thorough dental care experience. Regularly using this product can significantly reduce the risk of dental issues in dogs.
Petlab Co. Fresh Breath Bundle: Dog Dental Formula: Best Dental Care Bundle
Brand: Petlab Co.
Flavor/s: Unflavored
Form: Liquid, sticks
Material type-free: Gluten-free, natural, rawhide-free, wheat-free
General Description
The Petlab Co. Fresh Breath Bundle is a comprehensive solution for maintaining your dog’s oral health and ensuring fresh, pleasant breath. It includes a specialized dog dental formula, antimicrobial and antibacterial, designed to prevent plaque and tartar buildup and leave your furry friend’s breath smelling clean and fresh.
Using this dental formula is a breeze. Simply add the liquid to your dog’s water bowl as directed on the packaging. Ensure your dog drinks from the treated water bowl consistently to experience the full benefits. It’s a convenient way to incorporate dental care into your dog’s daily routine.
These dog bad breath treats are suitable for tackling multiple aspects of oral hygiene. It comes with a cutting-edge dental formula, water additive to freshen canine breath, and dog teeth cleaning treats. Both products contain premium ingredients to deliver dependable, daily support.
Merrick Fresh Kisses Oral Care Dental Dog Treats: Best Flavored Dog Treats
Brand: Merrick
Flavor/s:
- Coconut and botanical oil
- Mint
- Pumpkin and cinnamon
Material type-free: Grain-free, potato-free
General Description
Merrick Fresh Kisses Oral Care Dental Dog Treats are a reliable solution for maintaining your dog’s oral health while providing a tasty and enjoyable treat. These treats help promote dental hygiene and freshen your furry friend’s breath.
These dog treats that help with bad breath feature a unique brush-like design. As your dog chews, these treats work to clean their teeth down to the gumline, ensuring thorough dental care.
Most dogs find the taste and texture of these dog treats appealing, making it a pleasant experience for both pet parents and their furry companions. Incorporating them into your dog’s daily routine can help them enjoy strong, healthy teeth and gums while savoring a delicious and wholesome treat.
Dog Treats for Bad Breath: Your Buying Guide
When purchasing dog treats, you must consider several important factors to address bad breath. Selecting the proper treats can help improve their oral hygiene and freshen their breath.
Here are some key things to remember when buying dog treats for bad breath:
Ingredients
Look for treats with natural and high-quality ingredients. Avoid products with artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. Choose treats that are gentle on your dog’s stomach.
Dental Benefits
Opt for treats with specific dental benefits, such as reducing plaque and tartar buildup. Some treats have a unique texture that can help clean your dog’s teeth as they chew.
Size and Texture
Be mindful of the texture and size of the treat. Treats that are larger or have a specific texture can encourage chewing, which is beneficial for oral health. They can also be more effective in cleaning teeth. The texture of dog treats impacts how well the treat can clean your dog’s teeth and freshen their breath.
Dog’s Size
Treats should be appropriate for your dog’s size. Ensure your treats are safe and suitable for your dog’s breed and size. For example, treats designed for small dogs are usually petite in size, making them easier for these breeds to chew and digest.
Treats for large dogs are more robust and often larger in size. These treats should be durable and encourage extended chewing, which can help in reducing plaque and tartar buildup effectively.
Grain-Free Options
If your dog has dietary sensitivities, you might want to opt for grain-free treats. These can be easier on the stomach and may help reduce bad breath related to food sensitivities.
Brand Reputation
Choose treats from reputable brands with a history of producing high-quality pet products. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations can be helpful.
Freshness and Shelf Life
Check the expiration date to ensure the treats are fresh. Proper storage is vital to maintain the treats’ quality over time.
Veterinarian Recommendations
Consult with your veterinarian for recommendations on specific treats that can address your dog’s bad breath. They can guide you based on your dog’s individual needs.
Taste and Preference
Ultimately, the treat needs to be something your dog enjoys. If your dog doesn’t like the taste or texture, it may not chew it effectively, so consider your dog’s preferences.
Budget
Treats come in a range of price points. While it’s important to prioritize quality, consider your budget when selecting. There are effective treats available at various price levels.
Safety
Ensure the treats are safe for your dog. They should be free from harmful substances, such as artificial sweeteners and foaming agents, and choking hazards. Always monitor your dog when giving them treats.
Quantity
Consider the quantity of treats in a package and how often you plan to use them. It’s important to balance treating your dog and maintaining a healthy diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Brush My Dog’s Teeth?
Brushing your dog’s teeth is essential to maintaining oral health, and how often you should do it depends on several factors, including your dog’s age, breed, and individual dental needs. The ideal frequency for brushing your dog’s teeth is daily.
If daily brushing is not feasible for your schedule or your dog is resistant to daily brushing, aim to brush their teeth several times a week.
Are There Any Natural Remedies for Bad Breath in Dogs?
Some natural remedies include adding fresh parsley to your dog’s food or offering them carrot sticks, but dental treats are often the most effective option.
Can I Use Human Toothpaste for My Dog’s Oral Hygiene?
No! You should not use human toothpaste for your dog’s oral hygiene. Human toothpaste contains ingredients that can harm dogs if ingested. These toothpaste products often contain fluoride, which can be toxic to dogs in large quantities.
Instead, it’s important to use toothpaste specifically formulated for dogs. Dog toothpaste is safe for dogs, and it comes in more appealing flavors, making the brushing process easier and more enjoyable. Additionally, dog toothpaste is often free from foaming agents and artificial sweeteners, which can be problematic for dogs.
How Can I Prevent Bad Breath in My Dog in the Long Term?
Preventing bad breath in your dog in the long term involves a combination of good oral hygiene practices, regular vet check-ups, and attention to their overall health. Regular dental care, a balanced diet, and maintaining your dog’s overall health are key to preventing bad breath in the long term.
That’s All, Folks
Combating bad breath in dogs is essential for their oral health and your overall enjoyment of time spent with your furry friend. These eight best treats for bad dog breath are excellent choices to freshen your dog’s breath and promote healthy teeth and gums.
We recommend ARK NATURALS Protection+ Brushless Toothpaste Dog Dental Chews. They are effective and efficient in improving your dog’s dental hygiene. They help dislodge plague and prevent tartar formation. Most importantly, they are great for fighting bad breath.
While these treats can help, regular dental check-ups with your veterinarian are equally important for maintaining your dog’s oral health.
