Help with my dog's stinky breath **UPDATE Post #8

[lovinwdw]

My dog (Jack) has very stinky breath. We have tried to clean them, but he really hates you to touch his mouth. The vet had recommended bringing him in for a tooth cleaning, but I am apprehensive about putting him "under" to have his teeth cleaned. He is a small dog (a miniature pincher) and I just hate to do that. Any suggestions out there?

 

[hemispheredancer]

How about buying him some Greenies? They are green chewable bones that is supposed to freshen their breath. My dog loves them!

 

[Christine]

My dog just had her teeth cleaned yesterday and what a difference!!

I understand you reluctance to put your dog under anesthesia, but having the teeth cleaned is healthy for your dog in the long run. Just like people, gum disease can cause all kinds of health problems for your dog (cardiact issues, kidney issues, etc). So, I would say, get the cleaning done.

Other than home brushing, there is really not much more you can do.

 

[Chicago526]

If all you are worried about is breath, then try some of the dog treats that are geared toward 'bad breath'. Pedigre (sp?) has a line of both dog biscuts and Dentabones that are supposed to help.

But tooth decay in dogs can be painful (just like in people) so in the long run you may still want to have your dog's teeth cleaned. I know it can be scarey to have them put under, but vets know what they are doing. My dog had to go under when I got her fixed, and she was fine. They ran a blood test before hand to make sure she would tolerate the anestetic.

 

[MsDisney23]

Your dog may not like having his teeth brushed, but your the Boss.

Get some toothpaste from your vet, with the little rubber brush that goes over your finger, and clean his teeth everyday. He will get used to it. Also as another poster said, The greenies are wonderful along with other dog chews that you can buy.

 

[imsorry]

I think you should consider the cleaning from the vet.

My father never wanted to subject his chihuahua to anesthesia. The dog had horrible breath, and after my dad passed away I took the poor dog to the vet and he ended up having almost ALL his teeth pulled due to infections. Small dogs have shallow roots in their teeth and need extra attention. Looking back, now I understand why the dog has so "snappish" if you put your hand near his mouth - poor thing probably had so much pain in his mouth.

(eta: my father LOVED this dog, and spoiled him in every way. he has not trying to be neglectful)

 

[The Mystery Machine]

It is in the gum lining that is causing the bad breath and they need to be cleaned. Bacteria is trapped in there.

Just like with a person, it can lead to heart problems.

 

[lovinwdw]

I just made a vet appointment for him to have this toothies cleaned. he will not be happy with me, but I talked to the vet's office and they said he will only be under for about 30 minutes. Thanks for the input.

 

[lovetheparks]

Just thought I'd throw this out there for if the cleaning doesn't solve it - my Benny has really bad breath when he eats a food that doesn't agree with his tummy.

My Tink has allergies and so we've been through several different foods in the last year and Benny has tried them along with her. I can always tell when it's not a good fit for him because his tummy grumbles and his breath is awful!

GL with the cleaning!

 

[Chicago526]

I just made a vet appointment for him to have this toothies cleaned. he will not be happy with me, but I talked to the vet's office and they said he will only be under for about 30 minutes. Thanks for the input.

Oh, fur-babies always hate us when we take them to the vet! My Missy always hides under the chair in the exam room. Since she's a good 50 pounds, her back-end always sticks out but she's convinced she's "hiding". Yeah, what a bright, brave dog I have!

Anyway, it's great that you're doing it, you'll both be happier in the long run!