Stop the Stink: Solutions for Refreshing an Old Dog’s Breath

Hey there, responsible pet owner! Your furry pal is still going strong, but, whoa, that breath, right? I understand, my senior poodle’s breath smells like durian (not the fresh ones), but the rotten ones. But don’t worry, we’ve got some tricks to help freshen things up and keep those gums and teeth in good shape. Follow these easy tips, and soon you’ll be cuddling your senior dog without holding your nose. Their breath might never be minty fresh, but you can make it more than bearable and give them a few more years of tail wags, belly rubs, and that happy welcome when you get home. The time to act is now, pet mom, dad, sister or brother. Do it for your dog, and for your own nose’s sake. Let’s wage war on the stink today. 

Why Does My Senior Dog Have Bad Breath?

Your senior dog’s breath could choke you but don’t worry, there are solutions. First you need to understand why their breath has become so foul.  

Common Causes of Bad Breath

• Gum Disease or Tooth Decay: When plaque builds up, it irritates the gums and teeth. This can lead to infections that cause bad breath 
• Kidney or Liver Problems: If their organs aren’t functioning properly, waste products can build up in the blood and be expelled through the lungs, causing bad breath.  
• Diabetes: High blood sugar provides a breeding group for bacteria in the mouth 
• Digestive Issues: Problems like acid reflux can contribute to bad breath

Importance of Dental Health for Senior Dogs 

When dogs age, dental health often declines right along with mobility and eyesight. Neglecting their teeth and gums not only turns your pup into a four legged ‘air freshener’, it can seriously impact their health and longevity.

Why your dogs’ dental health matters

• Bad breath in older dogs usually mean gum disease or tooth decay, which leads to pain, tooth loss, and difficulty chewing. Untreated dental issues may also lead to life-threatening infections (not to scare you, but I’ve witness cases among my friend’s dog) 
• Bacteria from infected gums and teeth can enter the bloodstream, damaging organs like heart, liver and kidneys.  

Easy Actionable Steps for Pet Owners 

Brush Those Pearly Whites 

You need to take matters into your own hands, literally. The good news is, in many cases, the solution is quite simple. Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly can help remove plaque and tartar buildup. You should brush 2-4 times a week to start, using dog toothpaste (never human paste as some ingredients can be toxic for dogs) and soft bristled or charcoal activated toothbrush formulated for canines. It may take practice to get them used to it, so start slowly and give lots of praise and treats. When they get used to it, you can work your way up to daily brushing. Pay extra attention to gum line and any problem areas. If brushing lightly causes bleeding, see your vet about any gum disease or other issues.

Visit the Vet for a Dental Exam

As dogs get older, dental health issues become more common and can lead to bad breath. Have your vet thoroughly examine your dog’s teeth and gums at least once a year. They can check for any signs of infection, gum disease, or other problems that need treatment. They may need to do a professional dental cleaning to remove built-up tartar. It’s best to address any dental health issues right away to avoid any complications. While expensive, professional dental care can add years to your senior’s life.

Consider Dental Chews and Water Additives

You can also ask your vet about dental wipes, oral rinses and water additive. In between brushings, you can use some chew toys and dental treats also help scrub the teeth, reduce tartar and freshen breath. Look for natural ingredients and follow the directions to see maximum benefits. While not as good as brushing, these can still help when used properly and regularly.

With some simple steps, you can successfully stop the stink and keep your dog’s breath smelling fresher. Don’t put it off-get started today for your dog’s dental health, overall well-being and many more years of sweet-smelling kisses.

Brushing your Dog’s Teeth: A Step-by-Step Guide to Prevent Bleeding 

First, let’s gather your tools: dog toothpaste (we recommend the propolis-based kind), a soft-bristled toothbrush, and a whole lot of patience, my friend.

1. Familiarize Your Dog: Get your dog used to having their mouth handle. Gently lift up their lips and touch their teeth and gums. Give them praise and treats to help them associate it with positive feelings.  

2. Introduce Toothbrush: Once they’re comfortable with that, introduce the toothbrush. Let them lick some dog toothpaste off the brush first 

3. Begin Brushing: Apply a small amount of dog toothpaste to the brush. Lift your dog’s lips to expose one tooth at a time. Gently brush with small, circular motions, working your way around the tooth. 

4. Take It Slow: Start by brushing a few teeth at a time. Offer plenty of praise and treats as you go. Don’t worry if you only manage a couple of teeth the first time; you can build up from there. 

5. Set a Brushing Schedule: Aim to brush 3-4 times a week. Daily brushing is ideal, but we understand that it might not always be practical for owners and dogs. Remember, some brushing is always better than none!

Bonus Tip: To prevent gum bleeding, be extra gentle when brushing, and use a toothbrush with soft bristles. Some dogs just have naturally more sensitive gum or it could be possible that during the brushing process, or the toothbrush may have inadvertently caused a minor injury or irritation to the gums. If you notice bleeding, reduce the pressure and continue brushing gently. However, if your dogs’ gum bleed frequently or worsen even when you reduced pressure it could be due to gum disease or underlying health issues, but be sure to consult your vet for advice.

Recommended Dental Care Products for Senior Dogs 

When it comes to maintaining the dental health of our senior canine companions, choosing the right products can make a world of difference. We’ve scoured the market for dental care products that are not only effective but also suitable for our older furry friends. From gentle toothbrushes designed for senior dogs to toothpaste formulated with their unique needs in mind, we’ve got recommendations that will help keep their smiles bright and their gums healthy. Let’s explore these dental products that can make dental care a breeze for both you and your senior dog.

Dental Chews

One of our top picks of dental chews is Lily’s Kitchen Woofbrush Dental Chews

In the realm of dental care for our senior pups, we’ve stumbled upon a remarkable chew that’s as gentle as a breeze. With a delightfully rubbery and foamy texture, it’s perfect for our older dogs to sink their teeth into. This chew not only satisfies their chewing instincts but also manages to reach the gum line, aiding in the battle against plaque buildup. Oh, and did we mention how our four-legged friends seem to practically dance for joy when they see it? While we can’t taste it ourselves, their ecstatic reactions tell us it’s a tasty delight. Plus, it’s easily digested, which is a relief for us conscientious pet parents. Crafted from natural ingredients like parsley, coconut oil, fennel, algae, and decaf green tea extract, this chew aligns perfectly with our commitment to wholesome doggie diets. To top it off, our founder’s dog has been enjoying these for years before he started introducing teeth brushing care routine into his dog Sushi’s lifestyle it seems to be protecting his teeth well but as mentioned chews alone is not enough to fight off plaque completely. 

Propolis Based Toothpaste 

One of our top picks of toothpaste is Root & Tree Yummy Propolis Toothpaste

I can totally relate to sensitive gums, and I’ve found propolis-infused toothpaste to be a game-changer in the world of oral care. Its natural properties are fantastic for combating dental plaque, freshening breath, and warding off tartar buildup. So, when we stumbled upon Root & Tree’s Yummy Propolis Toothpaste, specifically designed for our canine companions, we were intrigued.

The results, though, were nothing short of astonishing. After incorporating these chews into Sushi’s daily routine for just three weeks, we witnessed a remarkable transformation in the state of his teeth and gums. The reduction in plaque was genuinely impressive. The power of propolis knows no bounds, and it seems our four-legged friends can enjoy its benefits too.

Soft Bristled & Antibacterial Toothbrush

When it comes to looking after your furry friend’s pearly whites, the toothbrush you choose can be a game-changer. We noticed that the toothbrushes for dogs on the current market is not optimally designed for pressure control and some bristles are either too hard or too soft that it is unable to properly clean off plaque on your dog’s teeth. Yes, soft-bristled toothbrushes that are properly designed are the real MVPs, especially when it comes to our senior dogs and those with delicate gums and accelerated accumulation of plaque and tartar. That’s why we’re excited to introduce our Korean-made toothbrush, a trusted choice recommended by over 10,000 dental experts in Korea.

What makes it so special? Well, it’s not just BPA-free; it’s also been meticulously examined for any harmful substances, and none were found. With an impressive antibacterial certification of 99.9%, it’s all about keeping things squeaky clean. The toothbrush boasts a total of 2200 fine bristles, each measuring a mere 0.18mm, ensuring minimal irritation to those precious gums while providing a thorough clean between teeth, banishing plaque, and standing as a bulwark against gum disease. It doesn’t shy away from tackling those hard-to-reach nooks and crannies, and its petite head is perfectly tailored to master those inner molars. Plus, the ergonomic handle not only ensures comfort but grants you full control, effectively reducing brushing pressure, so that we won’t accidentally apply too much pressure leading to bleeding gums. We trust this toothbrush to take your dog’s oral health up a notch or two.

So there you have it, fellow pet enthusiasts. Your furry friend’s breath might be packing a punch, but now you’re equipped with the wisdom and the tools to tackle that pesky problem and maintain their gum health. Get those teeth brushed, those gums cleaned, and say goodbye to the stench before your dog’s breath empties the room faster than a gust of wind. Give your senior pup the chance to smother you in affection without fear of any olfactory mishaps. Their golden years will shine even brighter (and smell fresher!) all thanks to your diligent dental diligence. So, what’s the holdup? Grab those toothpaste and toothbrushes for your four-legged pals and let’s usher in an era of sweet-smelling kisses and even sweeter love from your dog. It’s time to step up and stop the stink!