Natural Remedies for Doggy Bad Breath
We all love getting kisses from our furry friends, but sometimes they need a breath mint! There are quite a few options for doggy toothpaste and mouthwash at the store, but we compiled a list of the best ways to cure bad breath at home naturally! Dogs aren’t able to brush their teeth like their human counterparts, so it’s up to pet owners to maintain healthy oral hygiene for Fido.
Causes of Bad Breath
Periodontal disease is the leading cause of pet deaths, affecting over 80% of dogs over the age of 3. Bad breath is usually the first sign of dental disease, so before doing home remedies, consult with your veterinarian to see if there are any underlying health problems. On the other hand, if your pup enjoys drinking out of the toilet or eating everything outside, here are some ways to combat potty mouth.
Natural Cures
- Parsley – Parsley has numerous health benefits for both humans and doggos! The garnish is full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to aid in countless health issues. Adding a slight pinch to food or blending with water to add to their water bowl are the best ways to add parsley to your pup’s diet.
- Mint – Adding mint leaves to Fidos food is a great way to give them tame toothpaste. Also, the chlorophyll in the leaves is a natural bacteria fighter for both the mouth and digestive tract!
- Carrots – Crunchy treats are good for furry friends to snack on because the hard vegetables break down tartar and bacteria.
- Apple Slices – Just like carrots, giving your pup a crunchy treat can break down the film left on Fido’s teeth. Make sure you remove all seeds before giving slices to your pet.
- Probiotics – Probiotics are good bacteria that fight harmful bacteria! Dog probiotics are essential for aiding our digestive tract and can get things back on track. The most popular pet probiotics are Purina’s ProPlan FortiFlora powder supplements or Zesty Paws Gut Health Probiotic Bites.
- Coconut Oil – Coconut oil prevents tooth decay and fights gum disease while also fighting bacteria and reducing plaque build-up. Food can leave behind a film on teeth after eating, and oil can help pull the bacteria off.
We love our pets, we love their kisses, but we do not love a potty mouth. Our pets need to have a healthy mouth to live a healthy life. For more information on how to brush your pup’s teeth at home, check out this article for tips!