The Best Dog Breath Spray

You clean your teeth every day, probably at least a couple of times. Chances are, everyone in your household does the same. But there’s one member of your family who probably skips those daily teeth cleanings: your beloved pet.

If you have one or more dogs, one whiff near the snout area will tell you just how much time has elapsed between teeth cleanings. Unfortunately, bad canine breath can be a sign of underlying issues. In other words, your pet’s mouth may be harboring harmful bacteria.

As with humans, there are products that can help with that. But the right breath spray can not only freshen your pet’s breath, it can also help eliminate the bacteria that causes it in the first place. It’s best to use it in conjunction with a vet-recommended tooth care routine, which probably means brushing your pet’s teeth on a regular basis, but the right product can keep tartar to a minimum, improving the long-term health of your pet’s gums and teeth.

There are multiple types of breath sprays for dogs, though. You’ll find some with a foam consistency and others that are more liquid-like. But the biggest differentiator is the active ingredient. Look for one that is built to cut down on bacteria and fix the root cause of the odor, rather than simply covering it up.

• Follow the instructions on the label carefully, as application directions can vary from one product to another. Often you’ll need to pull back the skin to reveal the teeth and gums, then spray. But if your dog doesn’t react well to that, you may find rubbing it on your finger, then the gums, is a better option.
• Some breath sprays can be put in the dog’s water bowl or licked off your finger. Make sure if you go this route that the spray is as effective at eliminating the issue.
• Breath spray is no substitute for pet dental hygiene. Make sure you have your vet check your pet’s teeth during checkups. Some dogs will need a teeth cleaning at least occasionally, especially as they get older.
• For best results, make sure your pet doesn’t eat or drink anything for at least an hour after you’ve applied the spray.
• Look for products that are free from toxins and chemicals, especially if your pet has a sensitive stomach.
• Some sprays are built with ingredients that help soothe your dog’s gums during application. This could help reduce any anxiety your pet has about the experience.