As a dog parent, there’s nothing worse than getting puppy kisses that smell like they came straight from a garbage bin. If you’re searching for how to freshen dog breath, you’re not alone.

I used to think my dog’s bad breath was just “a dog thing”… until it got so bad I could smell it from across the sofa. It was a mix of old socks, sardines, and something unidentifiable.

After a vet visit and some trial and error, I found 5 simple ways to freshen my dog’s breath naturally. Today, it’s completely different. My dog breath smells clean, mild, and I don’t mind those nose-to-nose cuddles anymore!

Let’s dive into what really works.

5 Proven Ways To Freshen Dog Breath

1. Brush Your Dog’s Teeth (Yes, Really!)

Just like us, dogs build up plaque and bacteria that cause bad breath. Brushing their teeth a few times a week is one of the most effective things you can do. Use a dog-specific toothbrush and enzymatic toothpaste (never human toothpaste - it's toxic to dogs).

Tip: Start slow. Let your dog sniff and lick the brush. My trick? I dip the toothbrush into peanut butter-flavored toothpaste and let my pup “taste test” it first. Now he actually looks forward to brushing time.

2. Add Dental Water Additives to Their Bowl

This was a game-changer for us. You simply pour a vet-approved dental additive into your dog’s water bowl, and it works throughout the day to freshen breath and reduce bacteria in the mouth.

Look for ones that are free from alcohol, sugar, or artificial dyes. Our vet recommended one with natural enzymes and chlorhexidine and within a week, the improvement was noticeable.

3. Use Natural Dog Treats That Freshen Breath

Not all dog treats are created equal. In fact, some treats and kibble are packed with fillers and additives that worsen your dog’s breath.

That’s why I switched to Soopa Pets dog treats. They’re made with real superfoods like parsley, coconut, and chia seed - ingredients proven to reduce bacteria, aid digestion, and freshen breath naturally.

They’re also grain-free, low-fat, and hypoallergenic. My dog’s favourites? The Banana & Peanut Butter Sticks and Kale & Apple Dental Sticks. Not only did his breath improve, but I noticed less tartar build-up too.

🦷 Shop Soopa Dog Treats for Bad Breath

4. Feed a Raw Carrot Daily

This one surprised me, but my vet confirmed it: raw carrots help clean your dog’s teeth and act like natural toothbrushes.

The crunch scrapes away plaque, and the beta-carotene is great for eye health too.

Just make sure to supervise chewing and cut into chunks for smaller breeds.

5. Keep Their Gut Healthy

Sometimes, the smell isn’t from the mouth at all — it starts in the gut. Digestive issues, poor-quality food, and imbalanced gut flora can lead to stinky breath.

Adding probiotics to your dog’s diet or feeding them fresh, digestible food can support a healthier gut and a fresher mouth. I now mix a spoon of plain Greek yogurt or a probiotic powder into meals a few times a week. The difference? Noticeable within days.

Final Thoughts: Fresh Breath = Happy Dog (and Owner!)

Dog breath doesn’t have to be gross. With a little effort and consistency, you can transform it from funky to fresh. Here’s what worked for me:

• Brushing teeth weekly
• Adding dental water solution
• Feeding Soopa Pets bad breath treats
• Giving raw carrots
• Supporting gut health

So next time your pup leans in for a kiss, you might actually enjoy it!

🛍️ Try Soopa’s Natural Treats for Bad Breath

Freshen Your Dog’s Breath with Soopa