The most common causes of bad breath are teeth and gum problems. Plaque and tartar buildup are dental problems that can lead to periodontal disease. Small dogs, such as pugs, Pekingese and Boston terriers, are highly susceptible to gum disease because their teeth are spaced closely together.
Bad breath can also be caused by diabetes, inflammation in the nose or the sinuses and gastrointestinal problems. In some cases, halitosis can be caused by trauma, such as by chewing on something. Cancers and inflammation in the mouth and esophagus can cause foul odors. Certain types of infections and the food he is eating can also be the culprits.
Foreign objects in the mouth can cause smelly breath. Check your dog’s mouth for any grass, plants, bones, hair, sticks or other stuck objects. Eating garbage, spoiled food or dead animals can cause an offensive smell. Some dogs engage in coprophagia, which is the practice of eating one’s own feces, so this could be a cause of the odor.
Even your dog’s regular diet can be a cause. Some dogs are unable to properly digest some foods, which can leave some partially chewed food stuck in the mouth or on the tongue.
