Smelly Dog Breath? Understanding Canine Dental Disease
Published date: 31 January 2025

Nothing beats the pungent smell of dog breath…. While our dog’s mouths will never smell like flowers, if their breath makes your eyes water, it is time to pay attention to why.
According to research from the Royal Veterinary College, 1 in 8 dogs will suffer from a dental disease. So, with this frightening statistic in mind, here is our guide to understanding and preventing dog dental disease.
What is Dental Disease?
The two most common dog dental diseases are gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gingivitis is when the gums become inflamed across the mouth and is the first stage of dental disease. The gums become swollen, have increased sensitivity, and some will start to bleed. If you repeatedly spot flecks of blood on your dog’s chews and toys, it is worth vet investigation.
Plaque* builds up in the mouth and eventually starts to harden. Hardened dental plaque is known as calculus/ tartar and it will need to be removed clinically. Eventually, gingivitis will develop into Periodontal disease.
This stage impacts the tissues surrounding the teeth and structures that hold teeth in place. Bacteria wears away at the bone, resulting in bone loss, loose teeth and eventually the potential for tooth loss.
As you can imagine, dental disease is incredibly painful and uncomfortable for our canine companions.
*Plaque is that fuzzy layer you get over your teeth after you eat and before you brush. It’s a mixture of salvia, food and bacteria that builds up over time.
Who is most at risk?
All dogs have the potential to develop dental disease. However, some factors make the risk higher.
- Age- wear and tear makes older dogs more prone to issues.
- Breed- Some dog breeds will be more likely to suffer, due to genetics and overcrowded teeth. These can include King Charles Spaniels, French Bulldogs, Pugs and Greyhounds. Interested in what dog breed might be best for you? Take the Best Pet for Me Quiz.
- Abnormal Jaw Shape- Over and underbites can result in a higher chance of dental disease.
- Poor Dental Care- Dogs who don’t have their teeth brushed are more susceptible to dental issues.
- Trauma- If a dog cracks their tooth in an accident or when chewing something hard, dental disease is more likely to develop.
- Retained Baby Teeth- In rare cases, puppy teeth won’t fall out and allow for the adult teeth to come through. Future dental problems are then more likely. Struggling with or preparing for the teething stage? Watch our Ultimate Puppy Teething Guide.
Signs of Dog Dental Disease
Our dogs can be great at hiding signs of pain and discomfort. So, owners need to be aware of any unusual behaviour and the common signs of dental issues.
- Sore and red gums
- Bleeding gums
- Bad breath
- Frequently rubbing their paws against their mouth
- Changes in eating habits
- Difficulty eating or favouring one side of the mouth
- Drooling
- Dropping food
- Head shaking
- Swollen face
How to Prevent Dog Dental Disease?
I appreciate dental disease can seem like a frightening prospect but there is power in information. There is so much you can do and build into your daily routine to prevent your beloved furry friend from developing any issues.
Here are some tips on keeping your canine companion’s teeth healthy:
Brush Your Dog’s Teeth
As much as this may be difficult to hear, tooth brushing is number one on this list.
Starting early is key, but even adult dogs can be desensitised to brushing. Just remember to take it slow and be patient. Read our Easy Guide to Tooth Brushing.
Check Their Mouth
A dog’s mouth can seem healthy at first glance but without regular inspection can be hiding some problems.
Get into the habit of regularly checking your dog’s mouth to spot any changes, such as reddening of the gums.
Let Your Dog Chew
Dogs need to chew! Chewing is a natural and important behaviour which reduces plaque, promotes healthier teeth and prevents boredom. Shop our Dog Chews & Treats.
Watch our video on Chewing Safety.
Use A Supportive Dental Diet
Diet plays a huge role in dental health, and the abrasive nature of dry kibble gives it an advantage against plaque. Try using a specialised natural diet like Canagan Dental, which contains a supplement clinically proven to support oral health.
Use Professional Services
We go to the dentist regularly (I hope!), so it makes sense that routine visits to the vet or groomers can keep dogs gnashers strong and healthy.
Our Dogwood Natural Grooming Salons offer a revolutionary teeth cleaning treatment for dogs.Remember, regular health checks at the vet are also important for spotting any issues early.
By implementing important lifestyle changes, you can reduce the chance of dental illnesses and save yourself the hassle and cost of veterinary intervention.