Bad dog breath isn't normal, it's a sign of an unhealthy mouth. Just like in humans, the build-up of plaque and tartar can lead to the development of the bacteria that cause bad breath. If your dog is not a chewer and you do not regularly brush his teeth or have his teeth cleaned, then the most likely cause of his bad breath is plaque build-up.

How to Prevent Dog Bad Breath

• Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly

• Keeping your dog's breath fresh is just one good reason to brush regularly. Clean teeth can also boost the health, happiness, and longevity of your canine friend. Plaque and tartar don't just cause bad breath. They can also result in the loss of teeth. Serious dental hygiene issues can also lead to life-threatening and painful infections.

• Dental chews help keep bad dog breath at bay — just know which ones to choose.

• Dispensing a delicious dental chew lets your dog help you do some of the work to stave off bad dog breath. Not all dog dental chews are created equal, however: Look for one that contains breath-freshening chlorophyll, cinnamon and clove.

• Coconut oil can help with bad dog breath.

• Ah, coconut oil. It doesn’t just boost digestive, immune system and metabolic functions — it also helps to combat bad dog breath. Put a loving’ teaspoonful over your dog’s food every single day, and you’ll soon sniff sweeter breath— plus dogs love the taste; for them, coconut oil is a sweet treat. Some dog lovers even brush their pets’ teeth with coconut oil, making the chore an offer even ornery canines can’t refuse!

• Neem is another good home remedy for bad dog breath.

• Like coconut oil, neem (an extract of the neem tree) is one of those brilliant botanicals that have many positive effects on dog (and human) health. Besides being great for the skin and coat, neem is also excellent for promoting oral health in hounds and humans.