6 Natural Remedies to Stop Stinky Dog Breath
June 11, 2026Is stinky dog breath putting a stop to your snuggle time?
You’re not alone! Bad breath is one of the most common complaints pet parents have. While bad dog breath is often caused by simple plaque and tartar buildup, sometimes stinky breath can signal more serious health issues. But with the right mix of home care, natural remedies, and regular dental checkups, you’ll be enjoying snuggle time without the stinky breath and health concerns in no time!
Not sure if it’s more than breath? Take the free 60-second Pet Dental Assessment and get a quick read on where your dog’s teeth stand.
Possible Causes for Dog Bad Breath:
- Dental disease is the most common cause plaque builds and traps odor.
- Health problems like kidney or liver disease, diabetes, or tumors often affect breath.
- Foreign objects in the mouth (e.g., stick splinters) can trigger rapid odor.
- Diet issues such as garbage eating or scavenging may be to blame.
When to See the Vet: breath smelling fruity, ammonia-like, or decaying smell. You should also see your vet about potential dental disease related health issues with your pet if you notice lethargy, drooling, or weight loss.
How to Fix Stinky Pet Breath
Brushing your pet’s teeth once a day at home and getting professional pet dental cleanings twice per year is the best way to prevent bad breath caused by bacteria buildup.
But some doggos just aren’t into having their teeth brushed the old fashioned way at home.
If this sounds like a furry friend you know and love, there are other ways to help keep their breath fresh and teeth clean naturally between professional cleanings!
Try One of These Natural Remedies For Bad Dog Breath
Share a healthy snack of Carrot Sticks & Apple Slices with your best buddy.
- The crunchy texture helps scrape away plaque buildup on your dog’s teeth and gums naturally.
- A few minutes in the freezer creates a soothing treat for teething pups!
Add a little bit of Coconut Oil to your dog’s food or use it as a toothpaste!
- The Antiviral, Antifungal & Antibacterial properties found in coconut oil are a bad breath fighting trifecta for dogs!
- Bonus! Coconut oil helps keep your pup’s coat shiny too!
Sprinkle a little Fresh Mint onto your dog’s food at every meal.
- This freshly scented herb contains Chlorophyll which has natural healing properties. Mint is also rich in Vitamins A and C, which support healthy bones, skin, and vision.
- Mint can even help to promote healthy digestion in pets and humans!
Home remedies help between visits, but they can’t clear the plaque and tartar that are already there. If the smell keeps coming back, it may be time to book a gentle, no-anesthesia cleaning. Most pups are in and out the same hour, with no recovery time.
Add up to a teaspoon of Apple Cider Vinegar to Fido’s water bowl.
- Contains bacteria killing Malic & Acetic Acids.
- Apple Cider Vinegar is also a natural source of calcium, potassium & magnesium —important minerals for overall health.
Choose Chew Toys & Treats designed for cleaning teeth
- Our blog post on the best dental chews for dogs can help guide you in the right direction!
- Lemon acts as a natural deodorizer creating freshly scented breath with every drink of water!
Give Your Dog Yogurt or speak with your vet about Probiotic Supplements
- Some research has shown that the good, active bacteria found in yogurt and probiotics can help with stinky breath by killing odor-causing bacteria found in the mouth.
- Good bacteria can also help with digestive and other health issues!
Start a Routine to Stop Stinky Dog Breath
The home remedies above will certainly help keep stinky dog breath at bay, but they are just one part of keeping your pet’s mouth healthy. Maintaining a routine of regular at home brushing and seeing a professional for twice yearly deep cleanings, is the best way to ensure your pet’s mouth stays fresh, clean, and free from bad bacteria. If you’re having trouble getting your dog to relax while you try to clean their teeth, our At-Home Brushing Guide is full of tips and tricks to help make brushing your dog’s teeth at home a more enjoyable experience for you and your furry best friend!
With these 6 ways to stop bad dog breath and a routine of regular brushing, you’ll be back to snuggle time with your beloved canine in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bad Breath
Does bad breath in dogs always mean dental disease?
Not always, but persistent bad breath is one of the most common early signs of plaque and tartar buildup. A professional cleaning removes that buildup and helps freshen breath.
Will a professional cleaning get rid of my dog’s bad breath?
In most cases, yes. Removing the plaque and tartar that cause odor makes a noticeable difference, and regular cleanings help keep breath fresh between visits.
How often should dogs have their teeth cleaned?
About every six months works well for most dogs. Home brushing and dental treats help in between, but they do not replace a professional cleaning.
