Why does my dog's breath smell bad?

Dogs aren't known for having the best smelling breath. However, if this odor is noticeably different/worse than usual, it's a good idea to ask your vet about it--bad breath is often the first sign of dental disease in dogs, so it's always better to be safe and get it checked out!

Yes, I would agree with the other two sitters that bad breath is a sign of Dental Disease.

Take a look at your dogs teeth, especially the back teeth. (the back teeth/molars are typically worse than the front teeth) but I recommend looking at all of you dogs teeth. There teeth should be as white are ours. If you noticed the the teeth are brown, yellowish, or if you noticed the gum line under your dogs teeth is red than your dog is due for a dental cleaning and you should take your dog to your local veterinarian. Typically your dog should get a dental about every 2 years, depending on how much preventive care you do at home. the more often you brush your dogs teeth at home the less they will need a dental cleaning. (Side note: smaller dogs tend to have more dental problems than the larger dogs). Once you dog already has the plaque build up on his/her teeth than brushing at home is not going to take away that plaque and tarter. You need to get a dental done. Be careful and know what is involved with your dogs dental. Although some grooming places are doing anesthetic free teeth cleanings, it is not the same as your vet would do. Please be careful! I can tell you first hand that I have had a toy poodle come in as an emergency with a broken jaw. This facility that was preforming anesthetic free teeth cleanings and accidentally used too much force while trying to keep the dogs mouth open. Unlike us, dogs typically do not want to leave their mouth open to let us do work in their mouths. So without anesthesia, force is applied while holding your pet -which is not comfortable nor is it safe for your dog(s). Another huge factor is that with not using anesthesia they are not able to get up underneath the gum line, nor are they able to scale and polish all sides of each tooth. So yes it may be cheaper but the quality and safety are also at risk when you try to cut corners. Please be careful and make sure you ask questions! Best of Luck!!

Often times bad breath is a sign that they're teeth aren't very healthy. Like humans, dogs need to have their teeth cleaned, whether it be from brushing, chewing on bones, or being cleaned by your vet. The older dogs get, the more their teeth will start to develop tartar. If your dog has pretty droopy jowls like a Mastiff, it's quite possible that food gets stuck in their wrinkly skin, which causes bacteria to grow and flourish. This can cause a foul odor emanating from their mouth. Brushing your dogs teeth often will help prevent tooth decay and keep any unwanted bacteria at bay.