‘Dog breath’ is a clear sign that something inside a dog’s mouth is not quite right and could require attention. Gum disease, one of the likely causes of smelly breath in dogs, is the most common health problem in adult dogs. Around 80% of dogs over the age of three will be affected. What’s more, gum disease can be very painful for dogs.

Fortunately ‘dog breath’ is very easy to recognise. Many owners will accept the unpleasant odour as being normal, whereas it is a sure sign that harmful bacteria are active in the mouth. Other symptoms that owners should be on the lookout for that indicate there is a problem are red and sore gums, and a reluctance to eat certain foods.

When you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to do something about it. If nothing is done teeth can be lost, and it is also thought that the harmful bacteria are able to enter the dog’s bloodstream leading to problems elsewhere in the body, such as the heart and lungs.