How to Keep Your Dog’s Breath Smelling Fresh Everyday

Your pet leans in for a little lick, and…ICK! They have stinky pet breath! There’s nothing worse than that. But you don’t have to live with your dog’s stinky breath. Especially since stinky breath usually means something else is going on in there, like plaque and bacteria buildup. The solution to keeping your dog’s breath smelling fresh every day is having a proper dental care routine. Keep reading and learn the causes of why your dog’s breath smells bad, the best ingredients to help, and daily tips to improve their dental health.

Bad breath in pets is usually caused by a build-up of bacteria in the mouth. When bacteria feed on the food particles in the mouth, it not only causes bad breath, it can result in plaque and tartar buildup , which leads to even worse breath as well as more serious dental problems. A dog is more likely to have bad breath when they have poor dental hygiene, which is why it’s important to keep up with dental care. HICC Pet® Dental Finger Wipes  help make that easy!

Poor diets can also contribute to bad breath as food that is not naturally balanced or contains too many fillers can affect their digestion, which in turn causes bad breath. Other causes of bad breath come from an underlying health condition such as kidney disease, diabetes, or gastrointestinal problems. If your pet consistently has bad breath despite good oral care, it's crucial to seek advice from a veterinarian. Persistent bad breath could indicate an underlying health issue that needs professional attention.

Baking soda is a versatile and natural substance often found in dental pet products due to its excellent cleaning, whitening, and deodorizing properties. Its strong antimicrobial features help eliminate harmful bacteria, prevent tooth decay, restore enamel minerals, and reduce plaque. Baking soda's natural cleansing abilities make it effective in dental finger wipes and pet toothpaste. However, it should be used in small amounts as its high alkaline content can disrupt a pet's digestive tract if ingested in large quantities. HICC Pet®’s Dental Finger Wipes contain a safe yet effective amount of baking soda to take out the stress of getting it just right.

Fermented coconut oil contains numerous benefits for both oral health and overall well-being. Its antibacterial and antifungal properties help kill harmful bacteria in your pet’s mouth, reducing the buildup of plaque and tartar that leads to bad breath. Additionally, when ingested in small amounts, it supports digestion, which can further improve breath.

To use fermented coconut oil, you can rub a small amount directly onto your pet’s teeth and gums, utilize HICC Pet® Dental Finger Wipes with fermented coconut oil, or mix it into their food. A teaspoon per day for dogs and a quarter teaspoon for cats is usually enough to see results. Not only will this help freshen their breath, but your pet may also enjoy the taste as fermented coconut oil has a stronger taste and aroma than regular coconut oil.

Parsley and mint are two herbs that work wonders for naturally freshening breath. Both are rich in chlorophyll, which neutralizes bad odors and promotes better digestion, a key factor in improving breath. In addition, parsley offers anti-inflammatory benefits that can support gum health in pets.

You can easily incorporate these herbs into your pet’s diet by chopping small amounts of fresh parsley or mint and mixing them into their food. Alternatively, you can add these herbs to homemade pet treats for a tasty and breath-freshening snack.

Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) is a naturally occurring antimicrobial agent that effectively eliminates bacteria in your pet’s mouth, reducing plaque, tartar, and bad breath. It’s gentle yet powerful, targeting harmful bacteria without disrupting the balance of your pet’s oral microbiome, making it safe for daily use.

Hypochlorous acid is non-toxic and safe for both dogs and cats. Products like HICC Pet®’s Oral Care Spray  contain hypochlorous acid and purified water, perfect for regular use. Simply spray it directly onto your pet's gums and teeth daily or after meals. It's safe if ingested in small amounts, making it an easy, stress-free option for pets who resist brushing. Always follow product instructions for best results.

Cinnamon has strong antimicrobial properties that help control the bacteria responsible for bad breath in dogs and cats. This spice is both fragrant and can prevent harmful bacteria from taking over your pet’s mouth.

To use cinnamon safely with your pets, sprinkle a tiny pinch onto your pet’s food or incorporate it into a homemade treat. Make sure to use it sparingly—too much cinnamon can irritate your pet’s stomach, especially in cats, who are more sensitive to certain ingredients. When used correctly, cinnamon can be a simple and effective addition to your pet’s breath-freshening routine.

Maintaining your pet's oral hygiene is key to keeping their breath fresh and preventing dental issues. Here are some daily care tips that can help your dog or cat maintain clean teeth and healthy gums.

Brushing your pet’s teeth is one of the most effective ways to remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup, which are the primary causes of bad breath and dental problems. By brushing regularly, you can help reduce the presence of harmful bacteria in your pet's mouth and promote better oral health.

1. Start slow: Introduce your dog or cat to the toothbrush or dental finger wipe gradually. Let them sniff and investigate the brush first.
2. Use pet-friendly toothpaste: Human toothpaste is not safe for pets. Choose a toothpaste specially formulated for dogs or cats, which often comes in flavors like poultry or beef to make the experience more enjoyable. You don’t even need toothpaste with HICC Pet® Dental Finger Wipes, but you can also add toothpaste to the wipes as well!
3. Brush gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for pets. Gently lift your pet’s lips and brush in small, circular motions, focusing on the outer surfaces of their teeth.
4. Be patient: Start with short sessions and gradually increase the time as your pet becomes more comfortable with the process.

To make toothbrushing more pleasant, try brushing at a calm time when your pet is relaxed. Offering a small treat or praise after each session can also help create a positive association with the activity. If your pet is reluctant, it might take some time to adjust, but persistence will pay off in the long run.

Chewing is a natural way for pets to scrape off plaque from their teeth. Dental chews and toys are designed to promote this behavior while cleaning teeth and freshening breath. For dogs, dental chews come in various shapes and flavors that encourage prolonged chewing, while cats can benefit from dental treats or toys that help clean their teeth as they play.

When selecting dental chews or toys, look for products that are safe, durable, and effective. Opt for chews that are specifically labeled for dental health and approved by veterinary associations. Ensure that any toys or chews are appropriate for your pet's size to avoid choking hazards.

Water additives and dental sprays are convenient options for pets who may not tolerate brushing or can be used in addition to brushing. These products work by targeting bacteria in your pet’s mouth, helping to reduce plaque and freshen their breath. One effective product to consider is HICC Pet®’s Oral Care Spray with Hypochlorous Acid , which is both safe and effective for daily use. Hypochlorous acid is a naturally occurring substance that’s gentle yet powerful, providing antibacterial action without the use of harsh chemicals. It helps to neutralize odor-causing bacteria while also reducing plaque buildup.

Choose vet-approved products that are free from harmful chemicals. HICC Pet®’s  Oral Care Spray with Hypochlorous Acid  is a safe and effective option, containing only hypochlorous acid and purified water. Simply spray it directly onto your pet’s gums and teeth, or use it with a toothbrush. This easy-to-use spray is perfect for pets who resist brushing, helping to reduce bacteria and keep their breath fresh.

Even with a good at-home dental routine, it’s important to take your pet for regular veterinary checkups. Vets can perform professional cleanings to remove stubborn plaque and tartar that can’t be removed through brushing alone.

If your pet has excessive plaque buildup or bad breath that doesn’t improve with regular care, professional dental cleaning may be necessary. This procedure involves deep cleaning under anesthesia, ensuring your pet’s mouth is fully cleaned and inspected.

Annual dental exams are crucial for catching early signs of dental disease, such as gingivitis or tooth decay. Early detection can prevent more serious issues and ensure your pet’s overall health stays in good shape.

Keeping your dog or cat’s breath fresh is simple with the right care. Regular brushing, using natural ingredients like baking soda, fermented coconut oil, or hypochlorous acid, and incorporating dental chews or sprays such as HICC Pet®’s  Oral Care Spray can help maintain their oral health. By consistently following these steps, you’ll not only improve your pet’s breath but also support their overall well-being.

Start small—try brushing with coconut oil or using HICC Pet® Dental Finger Wipes —and build from there. With a little effort each day, you can make a big difference in your pet’s dental health and happiness.