Many people love Dachshunds as pets because they are cute and loyal companions. However, bad breath is a common issue among Dachshund owners. This is because their small muzzle causes their teeth to be tightly packed, leading to a buildup of tartar and plaque.
Pet owners should be aware that bad breath can indicate an underlying health issue and seek professional help if necessary. If left untreated, plaque can lead to dental issues like gingivitis and periodontitis.
Fortunately, there are many steps that owners can take to reduce their Dachshunds’ bad breath and keep their teeth healthy. These include brushing the dog’s teeth regularly with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste, providing dental chews or treats, and visiting the vet for regular checkups. It is also important to feed a high-quality diet and avoid feeding table scraps.
With proper dental care, owners can help keep their Dachshunds’ breath smelling fresh and enjoy its lovable company for years to come.
In this article, we’ve discussed why Dachshunds are prone to bad breath and the steps owners can take to reduce it.
Check out this related post: Dachshund diet and exercise
Why do dachshunds have bad breath?
Dachshunds often experience bad breath due to the build-up of plaque and tartar. Plaque forms on the dog’s teeth and quickly hardens into tartar, leading to gum inflammation (gingivitis) and the accumulation of more plaque. This condition causes bad bacteria to start growing in the dog’s mouth causing the foul odors that come along with the bad breath.
Are Dachshunds prone to bad breath?
Dachshunds and other small breeds are more prone to developing oral disease and having bad breath because their teeth are closer together. This can lead to the accumulation of plaque and bacteria in their mouths, causing bad breath.
How can I help my dachshund with bad breath?
To avoid severe dental issues, it is advisable to brush your dachshund’s teeth at home a minimum of two to three times every week
Although it may be challenging at first, you and your dog can get accustomed to it after a few tries. It’s important to note that you should NEVER use regular toothpaste as it contains fluoride, which can be toxic to dogs if swallowed. Instead, use toothpaste specifically made for dogs.
Although brushing your dog’s teeth will do a lot to prevent bad breath and dental issues. You should also consider scheduling one annual professional dental cleaning for your doxie. Your vet or a professional pet groomer will be able to spot any issues and provide additional advice on how to keep your pup’s teeth clean and healthy.
Finally, you should ensure that your dachshund is fed only the best diet possible. Avoid giving it table scraps as these can lead to plaque build-up and bad breath.
How to brush your dachshund’s teeth
The best time to brush your doxie’s teeth is when he is relaxed, so it’s a good idea to do it after a walk. Don’t try to brush the whole mouth at first.
- Start by cleaning the front teeth at first and as your dog gets used to it, start brushing the back teeth.
- Place the brush at a 45 degrees angle against the teeth and make downward and circular motions to clear away the plaque.
- Focus on your dog’s canine and back teeth as that is where plaque tends to collect.
- Try to clean the inside of the teeth as well. However, cleaning this area can be tricky, do it gently so your dog doesn’t become agitated and uncomfortable.
If there is bleeding during the brushing it’s a sign of gingivitis. Some light bleeding is ok, but if there’s a lot of bleeding take your dog to the vet.
Brushing your dachshund’s teeth may not be as easy as it sounds. Dachshunds’ small muzzles make brushing tricky and many times your dog just won’t sit still. Making the process very frustrating.
If this happens we recommend you try Bright Bark. This product combines chews with toothpaste. Making your dog’s dental cleaning very easy and convenient.
Related post: Do dachshunds have teeth problems?
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Why does my dachshund’s breath smell like fish?
If your dog has a strong and unpleasant breath similar to fish, it could be a sign of poor oral health or overall well-being. The foul odor which results from bacteria in their gums can be an alert indicating the development of periodontal disease, which is a severe condition. Therefore, it is crucial to check your dog’s oral health when you notice such symptoms.
What causes periodontal disease in dogs?
When food particles gather along the gumline, bacteria, and plaque can accumulate in the mouth, causing inflammation and redness of the gums called gingivitis. If not addressed, plaque can harden into calculus, causing the gums to separate from the teeth. This can lead to periodontal disease, resulting in bone loss, tissue breakdown, and ultimately tooth loss.
How do you prevent periodontal disease in your dog?
To maintain your dachshund’s oral health, it’s important to clean its teeth regularly.
- You can do this at home by brushing your pet’s teeth every day with toothpaste formulated specifically for dogs. Avoid using human toothpaste since it may contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs if swallowed.
- Give your dog dental chew treats to help reduce plaque and tartar.
- Additionally, keep dental chew toys available for your pup to chew on during playtime to help scrape off plaque.
- Lastly, consider trying out water additives designed to prevent bacteria growth in your dog’s mouth.
- Always remember to consult your veterinarian to get guidance on how to improve your dachshund’s oral hygiene and freshness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, bad breath is a common issue for dachshunds, but it can be managed and prevented with proper dental care and a healthy diet. By establishing a regular dental care routine, providing your dachshund with high-quality food, and taking them to the veterinarian for regular check-ups, you can help ensure that your dachshund maintains good oral health and fresh breath.
If you have any concerns about your dachshund’s breath or dental health, don’t hesitate to consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice and treatment options. And if you have any tips or experiences with managing dachshund bad breath, feel free to share them in the comments section below.
Related post: Do dachshunds need grooming?
