{"id":3397,"date":"2021-02-09T19:47:45","date_gmt":"2021-02-10T00:47:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.dupontvet.com\/blog\/?p=3397"},"modified":"2021-02-09T19:47:45","modified_gmt":"2021-02-10T00:47:45","slug":"when-doggie-breath-starts-to-really-reek-its-time-to-act","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.dupontvet.com\/blog\/when-doggie-breath-starts-to-really-reek-its-time-to-act\/","title":{"rendered":"When Doggie Breath Starts to Really Reek, It\u2019s Time to Act"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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The seemingly slow build up of yucky yellowish-brown stuff on the back molars might not cause problems right away, but if left alone for too long, a telltale smell might become part of your dog\u2019s kisses. The first sign of dental disease<\/a> in pets (like people) is usually bad breath. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Unfortunately, that doggie breath you\u2019ve grown accustomed to might very well be on its way to repelling you \u2013 but it doesn\u2019t have to be this way!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What\u2019s Really Going On<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The most common cause of bad breath in dogs is the accumulation of plaque on their teeth. Once plaque gains a foothold in the mouth, other odor-causing bacteria can flourish. Without routine brushing and regular professional cleanings every year, plaque can lead to gum irritation and inflammation, or gingivitis. Ultimately, if ignored, gum or periodontal disease<\/a> is all but guaranteed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Long-Term Effects<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Despite the fact that periodontal disease is entirely preventable, more than 80% of dogs over age 3 show signs of it in various stages of development<\/a>. The doggie breath you might start to notice over time can actually be connected to the following diseases:<\/p>\n\n\n\n