If your dog's breath stinks, know you are not alone. A study revealed over half of the dog owners believed their dog had bad breath. 

But there was one issue: most thought it was normal for dogs to have bad breath. However, fresh breath for dogs is possible! 

There are many dog bad breath causes. It is essential to try and get rid of their bad breath to learn whether it is a serious health concern or not. 

So how can you make your dog's breath smell better? Keep reading this post for all you need to know!

1. Dog's Breath Stinks? Brush Their Teeth

Did you know that over 80% of dogs are showing signs of dental disease by three years old? Dental disease is caused by inadequate oral health. It can cause issues such as decay and gum disease. 

Bacteria and food can build up on the teeth over time. Many health implications can arise, such as bacteria impacting the heart and kidneys. 

So like keeping your dog's coat nice and shiny, keep their teeth shiny too! Pet stores sell different brushes, such as ones that go over your finger, to make the process as easy as possible.

Also, always use canine toothpaste, never human toothpaste! Your dog will enjoy the experience a lot better too.

If possible, get your dog to tolerate teeth-cleaning from when they are a puppy. However, it is never too late to create fresh breath for dogs.

Aim to brush their teeth every day. Start slow if you need. 

2. Watch Your Dog's Diet

Keep an eye on what your dog is eating. It is hard always to control what they pick up, but if you keep your home and yard area clean, this will help. Using a lead on walks and putting a lid on your trash can help reduce your dog's unsavory snack choices.

You can incorporate natural products into your dog's routine. For example, to make a dog's breath smell better, add a few spoonfuls of coconut oil to their food to fight bacteria. Also, consider adding some lemon drops to their water bowl or buy canine probiotics. 

3. Introduce Dental Chews

Dental treats can be an easy way to start improving your dog's bad breath. The treats are designed to reach even the most challenging corners of your dog's mouth. You can consult your dog's vet if you are not sure what dental chew is most appropriate.

4. Visit the Vet

Like regular grooming, annual visits to the vet can keep your dog in top shape. As there are many bad dog breath causes, if you try the home methods above, but there is no improvement, visit the vet.

Ruling out serious health problems is essential. The vet can also clean their teeth, which gives you a clean base to continue brushing them once you take them home. 

Fresh Breath for Dogs

Now you know how to get rid of your dog's bad breath! Try these at-home methods if your dog's breath stinks, and they should have better breath in no time. If not, visit the vet for more assistance! 

There are many causes of bad dog breath, so it is better to identify the cause sooner rather than later. 

Do you want more pet-care solutions? Contact us to learn more about our grooming services in Oregon. 

How often should you bathe your dog?

Experts say at least once every three months. Not only will it make them smell nice, but it’ll also improve their coat by removing loose hair and debris.

With that said, you don't want to wash them too often. That can dry out the skin, which will do more harm than good.

The type of shampoo that you use matters as well. Ideally, you want to use something that will both moisturize and protect the skin. 

Don't have any? Wondering whether you can use human shampoo on dogs instead? Find out by reading the rest of this post!

Can You Use Human Shampoo on Dogs?

Human shampoo will do the job if you’re out of dog shampoo. However, it’s not something that you want to use on a regular basis.

After all, it’s made for the human acid mantle (a thin acidic film on the surface of the skin), which has a pH level of 5.2 to 6.2. In contrast, the pH balance level for dogs ranges anywhere from 5.5 to 7.5.

In other words, the shampoo will be too acidic for your pup. Not only will it strip away their natural protective oils, but it can make them more susceptible to parasites.

What About Baby Shampoo?

Baby shampoo for dogs is slightly better than regular shampoo because it has a lower pH. That is, it'll be less damaging to your dog’s skin.

With that said, it still contains colors and fragrances, both of which can cause damage over time. For this reason, we recommend it as a last resort only.

Which Dog Shampoo Should I Use?

It depends on your dog’s coat. For example, you’ll want to use a moisturizing shampoo (look for something with oatmeal, honey, and vitamin E) if your dog has dry, itchy skin. Avoid those with scents as they can cause further irritation.

Is their fur dry and dull? If so, you’ll want to get something with minerals, vitamins, and proteins.

Similarly, there are deodorizing shampoos that you can use to eliminate unpleasant odors.

How to Use Dog Shampoo Properly 

Thoroughly wet your dog. Use a sponge to apply the shampoo from front to back. Gently massage it into their fur.

Use a small cloth to apply shampoo to their head. Be careful not to get it into their eyes, nose, mouth, or ears.

Rinse with water afterward, remembering that it can take some time to get rid of all the shampoo from their coat. From there, dry with a thick bath towel. You can also use a hairdryer to speed up the process.

Using the Right Shampoo For Your Dog 

The bottom line is, you can use human shampoo on dogs. However, it’s not the best option. Whenever possible, it’s much better to use something that’s specifically formulated for their skin.

Don't want to do it yourself? Looking for in-home dog grooming services in the greater Portland Metro area or the greater Boise metro area?

Feel free to contact us to set up an appointment for your pup!

Dogs are the most popular pet in America. If you're a proud pup parent, you want to give your best friend the best life possible.

For those who have white or light colored dogs, you might have noticed some rust-colored stains on your dogs eyes. These brown marks on their pretty fur can also show up on their mouths and around their toes, too.

What causes tear stains in dogs and is it a sign of a more troubling problem? Keep reading to discover what these stains mean, what to do about them, and how to prevent them.

What are Dog Tear Stains?

Tear stains are reddish-brown marks on your pet's fur caused by tears and eye discharge. Sometimes it can be a sign of a serious problem but often, it's just a natural process.

There's a pigment known as porphyrin that's present in tears, saliva, and urine. When the tears dry, it leaves behind a reddish stain due to the iron from red blood cells breaking down.

What Causes Tear Stains in Dogs?

As we mentioned, sometimes tears, saliva, and urine tend to show up on the fur of light-colored dogs. Sometimes it's just the natural draining and evaporation of fluids and other times it can indicate something more serious.

Some breeds are more prone to tear stains. For example, snub-nosed breeds, like pugs, can't always close their eyes all the way so their eyes end up watering more than usual.

Sometimes it can be a sign of a more serious issue. Glaucoma, pink eye, ingrown eyelashes, yeast infections, and more can all cause a dog tear stain infection.

How to Get Rid of Dog Tear Stains

Just like you take care of your dog's health by taking them to the vet, cleaning their teeth, and grooming their fur, you need to pay attention to their tear stains. There are ways to get rid of dog tear stains and prevent them from happening again.

Determine if your dog needs medical attention first. During your vet check up, ask if they might have an underlying condition that causes the stains.

If you have a breed that's more prone to stains, all you need to do is wash the fur and then keep up with regular cleaning. Take a paper towel or soft handkerchief, soak it in warm but not hot water, and gently wipe away the tear stains.

Give Your Dog the Best Life

Now that you know what causes tear stains in dogs and how to treat and prevent them, your pet will live a happier and healthier life. Treating any eye conditions will improve their quality of life.

Taking time to wipe their face with a warm cloth to prevent dog tear stains is also a great time to bond. Their fur will be beautiful and it only takes a minute or two out of your day.

Want an easier way to make sure your pup is always looking their best? Make an appointment for our at-home grooming service today!

All dogs require basic grooming to keep them looking their best. Take their fur, for instance, it should be brushed regularly—that will help to remove any tangles or mats.

Not only that, but it’s important to bathe them every once in a while. That way, their skin, and coat will be kept healthy.

On top of that, you want to trim their nails. That’ll prevent them from getting too long, which can cause health issues.

How often should you cut your dogs nails? What’s the proper way to do it? Find out by reading the rest of this post!

Anatomy of Your Dog's Nails

A dog's nail consists of two parts—a hard outer shell, and a soft cuticle of blood vessels and nerves called the quick. When trimming the nail, go slow; it’s important to stay away from the quick as cutting it can cause pain and draw blood.

This is especially true if your dog has black nails as the blood vessels can be difficult to see.

How Often Should You Cut Your Dogs Nails?

You should trim your dog’s nails as often as it takes to prevent them from touching the ground when they’re standing. For example, some dogs might need to get them cut every four to six weeks while others can go longer between trimmings.

At the end of the day, it depends on various factors such as their breed, and level of activity (regular exercise, especially on pavement, will wear down their nails naturally).

How to Trim a Dog's Nails

Hold one of your dog’s paws firmly but gently between your thumb and forefinger. Make sure that there isn’t any fur in the way.

Extend the nail forward by pushing down slightly on the paw pad. Clip the tip of the nail straight across. It’s important that you don’t clip past the natural curve of the nail, otherwise, you risk hitting the quick.

Remove any sharp tips or fragments with a heavy-duty nail file.

Tip: Look for a chalk-like white ring if your dog has black nails—that’s the beginning of the quick.

How to Stop a Dog’s Nail From Bleeding

The easiest way to stop the bleeding is to use styptic powder. Apply a small amount onto your fingertip and press it into the nail; the bleeding should stop after a few minutes.

Don’t have styptic powder? You can use cornstarch or flour instead.

Cutting Your Dog's Nails Properly 

How often should you cut your dogs nails? The answer is that it depends. As long as it isn't touching the ground, it shouldn't pose a problem. 

Not comfortable with the idea of cutting them yourself? Need some help? If so, why not give us a call? We’d be more than happy to help with our stress-free mobile services!