Woof Bad Breath
The primary cause of bad breath, halitosis, in dogs is bad bacteria causing decay that creates smelly sulfur compounds. This can lead to a periodontal disease arising from plaque and tartar build-up. According to Periodontology Veterinary Dentistry (Raven, 1997, pp186-231), more than 80 percent of dogs develop gum disease by age of three. Preventative measures are available and need to be used.
Oral care products containing metal ions, especially zinc, can inhibit the formation of odor through their natural attraction to sulfur. Zinc and hydrogen sulfide combine to form the insoluble compound zinc sulfide. Zinc also interferes with microbial growth and calcification of microbial deposits that can cause halitosis.
Daily plaque control is an essential part of controlling and preventing halitosis from recurring. Using toys that they can sink their teeth into will act as brushing and flossing. Encourage the use of these as much as possible. We have researched many products, with some not passing our rigorous recommendation tests and others making our list.
