LifestyleDogsThe good news is that it can be prevented07:42, 09 Jun 2026A vet has urged dog owners to pay close attention to their dog's breath. Speaking on the official TikTok channel for Pooch & Mutt, one expert explained that bad breath may require a visit to the vet.‌Team vet Dr Alex Crow said that your dog's breath shouldn't smell and said: "Most of the time bad breath in dogs is a sign of dental disease. Plaque and bacteria build up on the teeth, harden into tartar and start to irritate the gums.‌"Over time, that can lead to infection, pain, loose teeth, and eventually, tooth loss if not managed."‌Sharing some good news, he explained that brushing your dog's teeth at home can help prevent this. In fact, he said it's "the most effective thing you can do."It makes sense, too. After all, we brush our own teeth twice a day to help avoid the same problem.Content cannot be displayed without consent‌"Even a few times a week can make a big difference," according to Alex. But with the good news, comes the bad.The expert said that if "the smell is really strong, suddenly worse than usual or you notice red or bleeding gums, drooling, difficulty eating or your dog going off hard food, then that's your sign to see the vet because they may already need treatment."Stressing that "bad breath isn't just a mouth problem", Alex said that "in some cases it can be linked to digestive issues or even heart and kidney disease."‌Ending his video, he said: "If your dog's breath could clear a room, don't ignore it. Prevention is always better than a cure."What are the signs and symptoms my dog has dental issues?It's not just Pooch and Mutt that are urging owners to be wary of this issue. Experts at PDSA (People's Dispensary for Sick Animals) stress that "many dogs don’t show any symptoms of dental disease, so regular checks at home and with your vet are essential."Article continues belowIf your dog does show symptoms, you may spot:Halitosis (bad breath) – this can also be caused by other thingsPain or difficulty eating i.e. chewing on one side of the mouthWeight loss and decreased appetitePlaque and tartar – yellowish brown covering on the teethRed, inflamed, bleeding gumsWobbly, missing or broken teethExcessive drooling – sometimes with blood in itPreferring soft food to biscuitsA swelling on the face (can indicate a tooth root abscess)Pawing at/rubbing the mouth/faceHead shakingDropping food from the mouthChoose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌DogsFitness And Health