Do you own a Dachshund? If so, you may have noticed that they have pretty bad breath! In this blog post, we will explore why Dachshunds have bad breath and what can be done to combat it.
What are the causes of bad breath in Dachshunds?
Bad breath in Dachshunds can be caused by a few different things. One of the most common causes is plaque and tartar buildup on their teeth. Just like humans, dogs need to have their teeth brushed regularly in order to prevent this from happening.
Another cause of bad breath in Dachshunds is gum disease. Gum disease occurs when the gums become inflamed and can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Symptoms of gum disease include red, swollen gums, bleeding gums, and bad breath.
Lastly, some medical conditions can also cause bad breath in Dachshunds. These include diabetes, kidney disease, and liver disease. If you notice that your Dachshund has bad breath and they are also exhibiting other symptoms such as weight loss, increased thirst, or increased urination, then it is important to take them to the vet for a check-up.
How can you combat bad breath in your Dachshund?
Thankfully, there is a lot that you can do to combat bad breath in your Dachshund.
One of the most important things is to brush their teeth regularly. You can use a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. These can be found at your local pet store. It is best to brush their teeth at least once a day, but twice a day is even better.
In addition to brushing their teeth, you can also give them dental chews or treats that are specifically designed to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. These can be given to your Dachshund daily in addition to regular brushing. Just be mindful that some of these chews can cause stomach upsets in some dogs, so it is always best to give them a small amount at first to see how they tolerate it.
If your Dachshund has gum disease, then they may need to see the vet for treatment. This may include professional teeth cleaning, antibiotics, or other medication. They can also check for any underlying medical conditions that may be causing the gum disease.
What are some tips for keeping your Dachshund’s teeth healthy and free of bacteria that cause bad breath?
Food plays a vital role in keeping your Dachshund’s teeth healthy.
Hard kibble is great for scrubbing away plaque and tartar buildup. It can also help to keep their gums healthy. Look for a high-quality kibble that is designed for dental health. You can also give them raw bones to gnaw on, which will help to keep their teeth clean.
In addition to a healthy diet, giving your Dachshund plenty of opportunities to chew is important. This can include chew toys, bones, and rawhide chews. Chewing helps keep their teeth clean and provides them with mental stimulation.
You should avoid giving your Dachshund soft or sticky treats as these can stick to their teeth and cause plaque and tartar buildup.
Finally, make sure that you are taking them to the vet for regular check-ups and teeth cleanings. This is important for catching any problems early and keeping their teeth healthy.
Are there any dental products or tools that can help keep your Dachshund’s teeth clean and free of bacteria?
When it comes to dental products, there are the ones we’ve tried and tested for Scooby.
Arm & Hammer for Pets Tartar Control Kit for Dogs
This doggie toothbrush kit comes with a toothbrush and toothpaste in multiple flavors so you can see which one your pooch likes the most. This worked well for Scooby, but we did find it a bit difficult to get him to keep still while we brushed his teeth.
GREENIES Original TEENIE Natural Dog Dental Care Chews
Scooby loved the taste of these dental chews, and they definitely helped with his bad breath. We gave him one every day, and he looked forward to it as a treat. These are great for on-the-go since you don’t need water to give them to your pup. Just be mindful not to give them too many as it can cause stomach upsets (we found that out the hard way).
Dog Teeth Cleaning Dog Finger Toothbrush
In addition to the toothbrush kit, we also got this finger toothbrush to help with the plaque and tartar buildup on Scooby’s teeth. This was great for getting in all the nooks and crannies, and he didn’t mind it too much since we were using it more as a massage than an actual brush.
Himalayan Yak Cheese Dog Chews
Scooby loves anything cheese, so these were an instant hit. We like that they’re all natural and don’t have any artificial flavors or preservatives. They definitely helped with his bad breath, and he loved chewing on them.
Pro-tip, when the chew gets very small (potential choking hazard), if you run this under cold water and pop it in the microwave for 20-30 seconds it will re-hydrate and be like a cheesy puff!
ProDen PlaqueOff Powder
The last thing we tried was this plaque and tartar control powder. We add it to his food every day, and it doesn’t seem to bother him at all. It’s easy to use, and we’ve noticed a difference in his breath and teeth.
If your Dachshund has severe bad breath, should you take them to the vet?
Yes, as we mentioned before, it’s important to take your Dachshund to the vet for regular check-ups and teeth cleanings. This is important for catching any problems early and keeping their teeth healthy. If you notice that your Dachshund’s bad breath is getting worse, make an appointment with your vet to have them checked out.
Is Bad Breath A Sign Of Teeth Problems In Dachshunds?
Bad breath is often a sign of dental problems in dogs, and dachshunds are no exception. If your dachshund has bad breath, it’s important to check their teeth regularly and try to clean them as best as you can at home.
While bad breath isn’t necessarily a sign of serious dental problems, it’s still important to keep an eye on it and make sure that your dachshund’s teeth are healthy. By taking care of their teeth and getting regular check-ups, you can help prevent more serious dental problems down the road.
Wrapping Things Up
So why do dachshunds have bad breath? Dachshunds are no different from any other dog when it comes to why they might have bad breath – it could be caused by anything from the food they eat to dental problems.
However, there are some things you can do to help prevent or reduce bad breath in your dachshund, such as feeding them a healthy diet, brushing their teeth regularly, and taking them to the vet for regular check-ups.
By taking these steps, you can help keep your dachshund’s teeth healthy and their breath smelling fresh.
