It’s not uncommon for a dog to have stinky breath, but chronic halitosis is not normal. The following information highlights the most common cause of halitosis.  

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is the most common cause for bad dog breath, and is also one of the most frequent problems seen during veterinary examinations. Developing through the growth of bacteria, periodontal disease occurs in two forms: gingivitis and periodontitis.

Form #1. Gingivitis

• In a healthy dog’s mouth, the animal’s gums fit tightly around its teeth.
• However, if bacteria begins to develop between the teeth and gum line, the gums are pushed out and away from the teeth.
• Once the gums no longer fit tightly, pockets of dental calculus (tartar) form from trapped food particles, organic matter and bacteria.
• As the buildup of tartar continues, gingivitis occurs as the gums become infected.
• Halitosis is a characteristic sign, along with gum line irritation and inflammation shown by:
• Redness
• Swelling
• Bleeding
• Pain
• Pus

• In a healthy dog’s mouth, the teeth are held in place by cementum and connective tissue called the periodontal membrane.
• If gingivitis remains untreated and continues to progress, periodontitis will develop, attacking the cementum and periodontal membrane, and causing:
• Infection of the roots of the teeth
• Loosening of teeth
• Eventual loss of teeth
• Halitosis continues through periodontitis, along with signs of:
• Pain
• Reluctance to eat
• Shying away from having their head touched
• Difficulties when attempting to eat or pick up food
• Eating on only one side of its mouth
• Dropping of food as eating
• Drooling
• Swelling below the eye
• Sneezing after eating
• Purulent unilateral nasal discharge
• Food and water emitted out of the nose
• Oral-nasal fistula.