What is the best product for a dog's bad breath?

There are a number of products available that claim to help with dog bad breath, but it can be difficult to determine which one is right for your pet. Many commercial dog foods contain ingredients that can contribute to bad breath, so switching to a healthier diet may be the best place to start. You can also try brushing your dog's teeth regularly and using a water additive or mouthwash designed specifically for dogs. If your dog's bad breath does not improve after these measures, talk to your veterinarian about other potential causes and treatment options.

How can I get rid of my dog's bad breath fast?

There are a few things you can do to help get rid of your dog's bad breath fast. First, make sure they are brushing their teeth regularly. You can also give them dental chews or treats that help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Finally, make sure they are getting enough water to stay hydrated and flush out toxins. If you follow these steps, your dog's bad breath should start to improve quickly.

Do dog breath fresheners work?

Yes, dog breath fresheners work by neutralizing the odors that cause bad breath. There are many products on the market that can be used to help freshen your dog's breath, and they come in a variety of forms including chews, gels, sprays, and more. Some dog owners even choose to make their own homemade breath fresheners using natural ingredients like mint leaves or parsley. Whatever route you decide to go, there are plenty of options available to help keep your pup's breath smelling sweet.

Why does my dog's breath smell like something dead?

There are a few reasons why your dog's breath might smell like something dead. If your dog has been eating garbage or other foul-smelling substances, that could be the cause. Alternatively, if your dog has an infection in their mouth or throat, that could also lead to a bad odor coming from their mouth. Finally, if your dog has dental problems, such as plaque buildup or gum disease, that could also contribute to a foul smell coming from their mouth. If you're concerned about your dog's bad breath, it's best to take them to the vet for an examination. They can determine the underlying cause of the problem and provide treatment accordingly.

Are there dog breath mints?

Yes, there are dog breath mints! These little treats can help freshen up your pup's breath and make them more pleasant to be around. There are a few different brands on the market, so you'll need to find one that your dog likes. Some dogs may not be too thrilled about the taste of mint, so it's important to start with a small amount and work your way up. You can also try mixing the mints in with their regular food or treat if they're not interested in eating them on their own.

Why does my dog's breath smell like a sewer?

There are a few possible reasons why your dog's breath might smell like a sewer. One possibility is that they have an infection in their mouth or throat. This could be caused by bacteria, viruses, or even parasites. Another possibility is that your dog has dental disease and their teeth are rotting. This can lead to bad breath as well as other health problems. Finally, some dogs simply have naturally stinky breath due to their diet or genetics. If you're concerned about your dog's bad breath, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you figure out the cause and find the best treatment options.

Why does my dog's breath smell like fish?

There are a few possible explanations for why your dog's breath might smell like fish. It could be due to something they ate, an infection in their mouth, or a medical condition. If you're concerned about your dog's breath, talk to your vet to rule out any underlying health problems. In the meantime, here are a few possible reasons why your dog's breath might smell like fish: 1. They Ate Something Smelly If your dog has been known to eat things they shouldn't (trash, dead animals, etc.), then it's likely that the scent of whatever they ate is coming through in their breath. While this isn't necessarily a cause for concern, you may want to keep an eye on your dog to make sure they're not eating anything that could be harmful to their health. 2. They Have an Infection in Their Mouth If your dog's breath smells bad and they're also drooling more than usual, it could be a sign of an infection in their mouth. This is especially likely if the smell is coming from their teeth or gums. If you think your dog may have an infection, take them to the vet so they can get started on appropriate treatment. 3. They Have a Medical Condition There are a few medical conditions that can cause your dog's breath to smell bad, including kidney disease and diabetes. If you're concerned that your dog's bad breath may be due to a medical condition, make an appointment with your vet so they can run some tests and give you a diagnosis.

15 Best Dog Breath Fresheners of 2023: Water Additives, Sprays & More

by Tom Ken

Without proper care, dogs can have very bad breath. This is usually caused by bacteria, periodontal diseases, bad food, plaque & tartar, etc. Dog breath fresheners help to take care of this by controlling and reducing these causes of bad breath.

These products are applied in different ways, but all have the same goal. Let's look at the best dog breath fresheners to see which one will work best on your pooch.

Editor's Recommendation: Dog Breath Fresheners

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Preview
Product
Rating
Bestseller No. 1
Oxyfresh Premium Pet Dental Care Solution Pet Water Additive: Best Way to Eliminate Bad...
Rating:
Bestseller No. 2
Merial Oravet Dental Hygiene Chew For Dogs (10-24 Lbs), Dental Treats For Dogs, 30 Count
Rating:
Bestseller No. 3
Warren London Doggy Dental- Dog Breath Freshener Spray & Pet Water Additive- Made in USA-...
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Bestseller No. 4
Ark Naturals Brushless Toothpaste, Dog Dental Chews for Mini Breeds, Vet Recommended for...
Rating:
Bestseller No. 5
Blue Buffalo Dental Bones Large Natural Dental Chew Dog Treats, (50 lbs and up) 12-oz Bag
Rating:
Bestseller No. 6
DOGSWELL Dog Dental Care Treats Made in USA Only, Grain Free Chicken Jerky Dog Treats,...
Rating:
Bestseller No. 7
Arm & Hammer for Pets Nubbies Tartar Control Dental Treats for Dogs, Value Pack, 139...
Rating:
Bestseller No. 8
GREENIES Original Regular Natural Dog Dental Care Chews Oral Health Dog Treats, 36 oz....
Rating:
Bestseller No. 9
Arm & Hammer for Pets Tartar Control Kit for Dogs | Contains Toothpaste, Toothbrush &...
Rating:
Bestseller No. 10
Pet MD Dog Breath Freshener Dental Wipes for Dogs - Tartar and Plaque Remover for Teeth...
Rating:

7 Best Dog Breath Fresheners: Review

IMAGE	PRODUCT	FEATURES
	1. Oxyfresh Water Additive (Best Overall)	Trusted brand since 1984 100% non-toxic, dye-free, cruelty-free, alcohol-free Vet-recommended
	2. TropiClean Water Additive (Best Budget)	Large 33.8 oz. bottle Provides up to 12 hours of fresh breath after use Gives noticeably fresher breath in two weeks
	3. Greenies Fresh Dental Treats (Best Treat)	Chewy texture that cleans down to the gumline Vet recommended & VOHC accepted Breath-freshening mint flavor
	4. Pets Are Kids Too Dental Spray (Best for Puppy)	Specifically designed for pet kids Works as a digestive aid Natural, non-toxic, neem oil-free & hypoallergenic
	5. Arm and Hammer Water Additive (Best for Tartar Control)	Baking soda-enhanced formula Fit for dogs in all growth stages Affordable
	6. TropiClean Gel (Best Gel)	Cleans teeth in 30 days or less Available in different flavors Includes a single serving of TropiClean dental chew
	7. Arm and Hammer Dental Spray (Best Spray)	Infused with baking powder Formulated with natural ingredients Mint scent

1. Best Overall: Oxyfresh Water Additive

Flavor: Flavorless
Capacity: 8 - 128 oz.

Oxyfresh's water additive is our best breath freshener for dogs overall because it comes from a trusted brand that is known for making pet-safe dental care products since 1984. The product is 100% non-toxic, dye-free, cruelty-free, alcohol-free, and has non-GMO ingredients.

Also Read: The 12 Best Cat Flea Collars of 2023

Additionally, the freshener does not have mint, tea tree, or other artificial flavors to mask the bad breath. Instead, it eliminates this problem from the source using its fast-acting Oxygene formula.

The product cleans without brushing as it is added to your pet's drinking water. It is undetectable, so your pooch won't know it is there.

That said, the solution is vet-recommended due to its ability to clean teeth & gums as it helps to fight plaque & tartar.

On the downside, the product might cause allergic reactions that lead to potty issues like diarrhea in some dogs. If this happens, discontinue the dose.

Pros:

Trusted brand since 1984
100% non-toxic, dye-free, cruelty-free, alcohol-free
No masking flavors
Vet-recommended
Fights plaque and tartar

Cons:

Might cause potty issues

2. Best Budget: TropiClean Water Additive

Fits For: Dogs 12 weeks or older
Flavor: Flavorless
Capacity: 33.8 oz.

Coming in a large 33.8 oz. bottle, this water additive gives you a lot to work with and will give noticeably fresher breath in two weeks maximum when used daily.

Additionally, it is formulated using green tea, which helps to fight the bacteria that cause bad breath. As a result, it provides up to 12 hours of fresh breath after use.

That said, the product is tasteless and odorless, which means your pooch will not detect it in his drinking water. Simply add one capful to 16 oz. of water or use this ratio for any amount of water.

The only problem is that the solution is not suitable for puppies. Only use it for dogs 12 weeks of age or older.

Pros:

Large 33.8 oz. bottle
Provides up to 12 hours of fresh breath after use
Gives noticeably fresher breath in two weeks maximum
Undetectable (tasteless and odorless)

Cons:

Not ideal for puppies

3. Best Treat: Greenies Fresh Dental Treats

Fits For: 5 - 15 lb. dogs, 6 months or older
Flavor: Mint
Capacity: 12 oz.

These treats are very effective as breath fresheners because they have a unique chewy texture that cleans down to the gumline. This helps to fight plaque and tartar, which freshens bad breath.

The product is vet recommended and VOHC accepted as the treats are made using natural, easy-to-digest ingredients that are naturally complete. They have a breath-freshening mint flavor and contain 43 pieces per 12 oz. pack.

You just have to feed one treat per day, but do not use them on dogs less than 6 months of age. If you have a puppy, avoid this freshener.

Pros:

Unique chewy texture that cleans down to the gumline
Fights plaque and tartar
Vet-recommended and VOHC accepted
Breath-freshening mint flavor

Cons:

Not good for puppies

4. Best for Puppy: Pets Are Kids Too Dental Spray

Fits For: Puppies
Flavor: Mint
Capacity: 8 oz.

This dental spray is the best puppy breath freshener because it is specifically designed for pet kids (puppies and kittens). It eliminates tartar, plaque & gum disease, and has an alcohol-free formula that also works well as a digestive aid.

That said, the product is fully natural, non-toxic, neem oil-free, and hypoallergenic. It works at the enzymatic level to swiftly eliminate the root cause of bad breath.

For application, simply add 3 - 5 sprays to your pet's water, then spray 2 - 3 times along their gums and teeth. Dogs love its taste, so you don't have to worry. However, this is still a bit more cumbersome to apply as compared to water additives.

Pros:

Specifically designed for pet kids
Works as a digestive aid
Fully natural, non-toxic, neem oil-free, and hypoallergenic
Eliminates tartar, plaque & gum disease

Cons:

A bit cumbersome to apply

5. Best for Tartar Control: Arm and Hammer Water Additive

Fits For: All Stages
Flavor: Flavorless
Capacity: 16 oz.

With its baking soda-enhanced formula, this water additive is the best for tartar control. It fizzes lightly around the tartar to remove the brown coat over time when used daily. This whitens and brightens your dog's teeth.

That said, the formula consists of natural ingredients, which ensure optimal dental health. An odorless and flavorless composition makes the product ideal for picky pooches as they won't know it is there.

Another benefit of this product is that it is very affordable and you can use it on dogs in all growth stages. However, it causes eye irritation so avoid eye contact.

Pros:

Baking soda-enhanced formula
Natural ingredients
Fit for dogs in all growth stages
Affordable

Cons:

Causes eye irritation

6. Best Gel: TropiClean Gel

Fits For: Dogs 12 weeks or older
Flavor: Mint, Vanilla Mint, Berry, Peanut Butter
Capacity: 2 - 4 oz.

If you prefer using a gel, this piece from TropiClean is the best there is. When used daily as directed (two drops on each side of the mouth without brushing), you should see cleaner teeth in 30 days or less. It works by removing plaque & tartar buildup safely and effectively.

There are different flavors to choose from. They include mint, vanilla mint, berry, and peanut butter. That said, the product includes the gel and a single serving of TropiClean dental chew.

On the downside, you get a very small gel quantity (4 oz. maximum), and it is not suitable for puppies. Only dogs 12 weeks old and above can use it.

Pros:

Cleans teeth in 30 days or less
Does not require brushing
Available in different flavors
Includes a single serving of TropiClean dental chew

Cons:

Small quantity
Not suitable for puppies

7. Best Spray: Arm and Hammer Dental Spray

Fits For: All Stages
Flavor: Mint
Capacity: 4 oz.

This Arm and Hammer freshener is the best dog breath spray because it is infused with baking powder, which makes it very effective at eliminating tartar. The powder cleans and deodorizes, while its enzymes fight tartar.

On top of this, it is formulated with natural ingredients that are safe for your pet and kill the bacteria that cause bad breath. After use, the spray leaves behind a mint scent that helps to fight the bad breath.

The only problem is that you get a very small quantity, which a 4-oz bottle.

Note: Do not let your dog eat or drink for one hour after use.

Pros:

Infused with baking powder
Formulated with natural ingredients
Mint scent

Cons:

Small quantity

Other Recommended Dog Breath Fresheners

8. Arm & Hammer FF7614

The FF7614 features Arm & Hammer's signature ingredient, which is baking soda. This makes it very effective at fighting plaque & tartar without brushing. The product comes as tasty treats, which are a great alternative for rawhide. They are safer, healthier, and superb for aggressive chewers.

With its natural ingredients, the product is 100% safe and has a minty flavor that your pooch will love.

Key Features

Infused with baking soda.
A great alternative for rawhide.
Made using natural ingredients.
Minty flavor.

9. Ark Naturals 40002

If you have a small dog breed or puppy that weighs under 8 lbs., Ark Naturals 40002 is the best breath freshener to use for him. The dental chew is gluten-free and vet-recommended.

The outside ridges are designed to clean the teeth abrasively, which helps to reduce plaque & tartar mechanically. On the other hand, the center is filled with toothpaste, which cleans the mouth and gives a fresh breath.

Key Features

Ideal for small dog breeds.
Gluten-free dental chews.
Cleans teeth abrasively.
Toothpaste-filled center.

10. Virbac 0905

These dental chews are unique because they offer 3-way performance, which includes cleansing to address the oral causes of bad breath. The other two performance factors are freshening and supporting proper digestion. It does so by using a prebiotic that supports proper digestion while maintaining intestinal well-being.

Other than that, they have a unique Z-shape that scraps tartar and plaque easily in hard-to-reach places. Each chew is made using plant-based, gluten-free ingredients that are easily digestible. The product is fit for small dogs that weigh 11 - 22 lbs.

Key Features

Cleanses and freshens the teeth.
Supports proper digestion while maintaining intestinal well-being.
Unique Z-shape for scraping tartar and plaque.
Plant-based, gluten-free ingredients.

11. Dental Fresh FGI00017

The FGI00017 is one of the best dog breath freshener water additives because it has six benefits in one. It prevents & reduces plaque, treats & prevents gingivitis, restores the enamel to strengthen the teeth, prevents cavities, kills germs in hard-to-reach places, and freshens breath instantly.

That said, the product has a safe formula that contains no alcohol, sugar, detergents, artificial flavors, and surfactants. You also get a relatively large 17 oz. bottle.

Key Features

Treats & prevents gingivitis and plaque.
Prevents cavities and restores the enamel.
Freshens breath instantly.
No alcohol, sugar, detergents, artificial flavors, and surfactants.

12. Sonnyridge Dental Spray

Sonnyridge's dental spray features an all-natural proprietary formula that turns bad breath into sweet, fresh-smelling breath instantly. This formula is vet-recommended to support essential periodontal care. It works as a dog deodorizer and digestive aid in one.

In addition to this, the spray whitens teeth without brushing and prevents tartar buildup. You only have to apply it directly to the teeth and gums.

Key Features

All-natural proprietary formula.
Turns bad breath into sweet, fresh-smelling breath instantly.
Vet-recommended to support essential periodontal care.
Dog deodorizer and digestive aid in one.

13. Nylabone NPD610P

This NPD610P with Denta-C is scientifically formulated to reduce plaque, which harbors bacteria. Additionally, the product helps to alter the pH of your pooch's saliva to keep tartar in check, while curtailing bad mouth odors.

You also get three flavors to choose from, which are peppermint oil, green tea, and ultra-clean. All are packed in 16 oz. bottles and should be mixed in the ratio of one tablespoon to 32 oz. of water.

Key Features

Scientifically formulated to reduce bacteria-harboring plaque.
Alters the pH of your pooch's saliva to keep tartar in check.
Available in three flavors.
Packed in a relatively large 16 oz. bottle.

14. Pet Naturals 0700721.060

Pet Naturals' 0700721.060 contains 60 bite-sized chews that are formulated to break down decaying food debris in your pet's mouth, leading to better oral hygiene. The chews are chicken liver flavored and are ideal for all dog sizes. They contain no wheat, corn, or artificial ingredients.

That said, they contain Champignon mushroom extract, which suppresses odor-causing toxins in the intestines. They also contain cinnamon that supports a healthy bacterial balance in the mouth, spirulina & parsley, which have a deodorizing effect, and Yucca to alter the production or availability of hydrogen sulfide in the gut.

Key Features

Breaks down decaying food debris in the mouth.
Chicken liver flavored.
No wheat, corn, or artificial ingredients.
Contains Champignon mushroom extract, cinnamon, Yucca, spirulina & parsley.

15. TropiClean FBDR2.2Z

If you are looking for a freshener for routine use, TropiClean's FBDR2.2Z is suitable for this, provided you use it as directed. That said, you should add two drops into 8 oz. of water. It is flavorless, so your pooch won't even know it is there.

The product defends against plaque & tartar, and it comes in a small 2.2-oz bottle that is ideal for travel, such as when going camping or even to dog parks. That said, the product is for dogs 12 weeks or older.

Key Features

Ideal for routine use.
Small package. Suitable for travel.
Flavorless.
Suitable for dogs 12 weeks or older.

How to Buy the Best Dog Breath Fresheners

1. Types of Dog Breath Fresheners

Water Additives

Water additives are very easy to use. As the name suggests, they are added and mixed with your pooch's drinking water. The dosage is specified by the manufacturer and you must ensure to follow this so that you don't harm your dog.

Sprays

Sprays are a quick way to provide a freshness boost to your pooch's breath. Most have similar formulas to water additives, but there are two ways to apply them. You can spray them in drinking water or directly to the teeth.

Gels

Gels have a thick consistency and this makes it easy to apply the freshener directly to the teeth. You just have to apply a few squirts, then the pooch will lick and distribute the gel throughout his mouth.

Treats

Dogs love treats, which makes these fresheners easy to give. Most of them have a chewy texture, and this cleans each tooth down to the gumline. The only problem is that you might need multiple treats to clean the whole mouth.

Buying Guide: Water additives are the easiest dog breath fresheners to use because you don't have to give the dog directly. Also, they are very effective because the treated drinking water spreads easily around the mouth. As such, we recommend Oxyfresh's water additive as the best of the best.

2. Safety

On matters of safety, dog breath fresheners are formulated for pets in certain age stages. While some are ideal for all growth stages, others are ideal for adult dogs only. These are dangerous to use on puppies.

That said, if you have puppies, it is safe to use Pets Are Kids Too's dental spray because it is specifically designed for pet kids.

3. Hypoallergenic

This factor is important as it ensures your pooch gets no reactions after taking the freshener. In this dog breath freshener review, the Pets Are Kids Too dental spray is the best hypoallergenic product, which is one of the reasons why it is ideal for puppies.

However, you should still monitor your pooch because each one reacts differently.

4. Cleaning Power

All of these products are designed to eliminate bad breath. Question is, how long do they take? And how effective are they? Ideally, fast-acting formulas are better because they take a short time to get the job done.

Additionally, look for products with multi-purpose functions, such as fighting plaque and tartar, killing bacteria, etc.

5. Taste

If you have a picky dog, the best option is to go for a flavorless and odorless freshener. Also, we recommend this option if you don't know what your pooch prefers.

Otherwise, a scented and flavored freshener will do because it gives an instant fresh breath that will last for a few hours.

This can come in very handy if your dog has very bad breath and you need something to freshen him up before the other ingredients do their work, which can take up to 30 days.

With that in mind, TropiClean's Gel is available in different flavors, giving you multiple options to choose from.

6. Ease of Use

When it comes to ease of use, you need to consider how easy it is to give the freshener. As stated earlier, water additives are the easiest to give because you only have to mix them with the drinking water.

Sprays, gels, and treats are also easy to give, but not as hassle-free as water additives. Ensure you follow the dosage instructions for whichever type you use.

Q&A

1. Why Does My Dog's Breath Stink?

This can be caused by several factors. The most common ones are poor oral hygiene and periodontal disease. Plaque & tartar, bacteria, and bad food also cause this problem.

2. Are Dog Breath Fresheners Safe for My Dog?

Yes, but you need to check the usage instructions. First and foremost, ensure it is the right fit for your pooch age-wise and weight-wise. With this confirmed, make sure you give the right dose. Monitor your pooch and if you spot any allergic reactions, stop giving the freshener.

3. How Often Should I Use Breath Fresheners for My Dog?

This depends on the product. Every manufacturer specifies the dosage instructions. That said, most are designed to be given daily.

Buy on Etsy

Purina DentaLife ActivFresh Oral Care Adult Large Breed Adult Dental Dog Chew Treats - Walmart Link

TropiClean Oral Care Water Additive for Pets, 33.8 Oz - Made in USA - Walmart Link

PetHonesty Oral Hygiene Fresh Sticks - Dental Sticks for Dogs - Natural Dental Dog Chews - Walmart Link

Arm & Hammer for Pets Fresh Breath Dental Spray for Dogs - Arm and Hammer Dog Dental - Walmart Link

Pet Naturals of Vermont - Breath Bites, Fresh Breath Dental Health Bites, 60 Bite-Sized - Walmart Link

Oxyfresh Premium Pet Dental Care Solution Pet Water Additive: Best Way to Eliminate Bad - Walmart Link

PetHonesty Oral Hygiene Natural Dental Water Additive | Natural Ingredient Dog Mouthwash - Walmart Link

this piece from TropiClean - Walmart Link

This Arm and Hammer freshener - Walmart Link

Pets Are Kids Too's dental spray - Walmart Link

the Pets Are Kids Too dental spray - Walmart Link

Greenies' fresh dental treats - Walmart Link

Arm and Hammer's water additive - Walmart Link

Buy on eBay

Purina DentaLife ActivFresh Oral Care Adult Large Breed Adult Dental Dog Chew Treats - eBay Link

TropiClean Oral Care Water Additive for Pets, 33.8 Oz - Made in USA - eBay Link

PetHonesty Oral Hygiene Fresh Sticks - Dental Sticks for Dogs - Natural Dental Dog Chews - eBay Link

Arm & Hammer for Pets Fresh Breath Dental Spray for Dogs - Arm and Hammer Dog Dental - eBay Link

Pet Naturals of Vermont - Breath Bites, Fresh Breath Dental Health Bites, 60 Bite-Sized - eBay Link

Oxyfresh Premium Pet Dental Care Solution Pet Water Additive: Best Way to Eliminate Bad - eBay Link

PetHonesty Oral Hygiene Natural Dental Water Additive | Natural Ingredient Dog Mouthwash - eBay Link

this piece from TropiClean - eBay Link

This Arm and Hammer freshener - eBay Link

Pets Are Kids Too's dental spray - eBay Link

the Pets Are Kids Too dental spray - eBay Link

Greenies' fresh dental treats - eBay Link

Arm and Hammer's water additive - eBay Link

Conclusion

You have to be careful when selecting the best dog breath freshener and we recommend Oxyfresh's water additive because it comes from a trusted brand. It is vet-recommended, 100% non-toxic, dye-free, cruelty-free & alcohol-free, with non-GMO ingredients.

If you prefer using treats, Greenies' fresh dental treats have a unique chewy texture that cleans down to the gumline. They are vet recommended and VOHC accepted.

However, for dogs that have lots of tartar, Arm and Hammer's water additive has a baking soda-enhanced formula that whitens and brightens dog teeth.