Doggie breath is a problem that all dog owners, and often their house guests, are intimately familiar with. Though some dogs seem to be predisposed to have doggie breath worse than others, all dogs have horrific breath at some time or another. Remedying doggie breath is not always easy, but with some persistence, it can be reduced to a tolerable level.

There are numerous commercial products that target doggie breath, including mints and dissolving breath–freshening strips, but the most practical doggie breath remedy is a toothbrush and toothpaste designed especially for dogs. The source of bad breath in dogs is bacteria – the same as it is in people – but unlike people, dogs can’t assume responsibility for their oral hygiene. Brushing a dog’s teeth not only helps eliminate doggie breath, but it also promotes healthier teeth and gums.

In some cases, doggie breath may be the direct result of a switch in dog food. If you have recently switched brands, especially from hard to soft dog food, and your dog suddenly develops the worst case of doggie breath ever, you might need to try something else. If it’s possible for your dog to eat hard dog food, it is better for the teeth, gums, and breath. Talk to your veterinarian about different types of food that will work for your dog’s dietary needs.

You can also reduce the severity of doggie breath if you allow your dog to chew on a hard, clean bone from time to time. Certain dog treats also help remedy doggie breath, but you shouldn’t overdo treats and bones or replace a healthy diet with only treats meant to treat doggie breath.

Remember to use only products made specifically for dogs and to consult your vet if you have any concerns about products. If you have a puppy with doggie breath, you should realize that puppies often have a very big problem with bad breath. Puppy breath is normal, and as the puppy matures, the problem becomes much less severe. All dogs can have mild to moderate doggie breath, but if you notice a severe or sharp change in the odor of your dog’s mouth, you might want to consult a veterinarian in case there is an underlying issue.