10 Best Dog Breath Fresheners - Reviews & Guide
Last updated: February 12, 2024
Summary
The Petlab Co. Dog Dental Formula is our top pick for the Best Dog Breath Freshener. As a vet-approved, unflavored liquid, it helps clean teeth, freshen breath daily, and prevent tartar when added to water. Made by a leading brand, this easy formula saves money over brushing and dental cleanings for long-term oral health.
Have you ever leaned in to give your canine companion a kiss, only to be met with an unpleasant waft of foul breath? You're not alone. While it's common to assume that bad breath is simply part of owning a dog, severe halitosis can actually indicate serious dental disease.
Fortunately, there are several effective methods to combat bad dog breath. From dental treats to water additives, this guide will explore the best dog breath fresheners that don't just mask odor, but also promote oral health.
We will also provide a detailed buyer guide with the most crucial factors to consider while choosing a breath freshener to make sure you are making the best choice. If the bad breath persists after using the product for some time, it might be time to visit the vet, as the root cause might be more serious.
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What Are Potential Causes of Your Dog's Bad Breath? & When Should You See a Vet?
A dog's bad breath can stem from a variety of sources, some harmless and others requiring medical intervention. Basic dental hygiene is the first line of defense against smelly dog breath. Daily tooth brushing, dental treats, and regular professional cleanings remove plaque and bacteria buildup - a leading cause of odor. However, foul breath can also signal more serious underlying conditions.
Certain symptoms accompany bad breath and indicate a veterinary visit is needed. Sweet, fruity breath could mean diabetes, while especially foul, gassy breath may indicate a gastrointestinal issue. Bleeding gums, missing teeth, lack of improvement after a dental cleaning, lethargy, or other symptoms in tandem with bad breath warrant examination. Dental disease, kidney problems, diabetes, and liver conditions can necessitate treatment to resolve the primary issue and the resulting breath odor.
Preventative care like scheduled tooth brushing, avoiding foul-smelling foods, and maintaining a balanced diet reduces bad breath resulting from oral bacteria. Additionally, providing your dog with healthy and engaging chew toys like jerky treats can help scrape away plaque and tartar buildup, promoting better oral health and potentially fresher breath.
However, pet owners must monitor for other symptoms that, combined with persistent bad breath, signal an underlying condition needing veterinary management. Catching and treating the source of fetid odor early maximizes outcomes for canine health and wellbeing.
Our Recommended Dog Breath Fresheners of 2024
The market is flooded with products in various forms and shapes claiming to be the final solution to dog halitosis, which makes the task of choosing the best one overwhelming. That's why we tested tens of products to come up with reviews of only the best that are guaranteed to help you get rid of your dog's bad breath.
Based on our research, testing, and experience, below is our final list:
Petlab Co. Dog Dental Formula
The Petlab Co. Dog Dental Formula is an unflavored, liquid dental care product designed to support canine oral health and hygiene. Formulated as a daily mouthwash, it helps clean teeth, freshen breath, and prevent tartar buildup when used consistently.
As a tasty, easy-to-administer liquid, the dental formula targets plaque and tartar even for picky dogs without needing toothbrushes or pastes. Simply add one teaspoon to your dog's water bowl once a day. Most owners see cleaner teeth, healthier gums, and fresher breath within 1-3 months.
Made by Petlab Co., a leading pet supplement brand with over 2.2 million customers, this veterinarian-approved formula undergoes rigorous quality testing to ensure safety and effectiveness. It's suitable for dogs of all life stages.
Offered in 8 oz bottles as single packs for $35.95 ($4.49 per oz) or value 2-packs for $61.10 ($3.82 per oz), the dental formula provides an affordable and effortless way to take care of your dog's oral care routine. Compared to regular brushing or dental cleanings costing $200+, it's very economical in the long-term.
Pros
- Cleans teeth and prevents tartar naturally
- Freshens breath daily
- Easy liquid form, no brushing needed
- Trusted brand with 2.2 million customers
- Vet-approved ingredients and quality standards
Cons
- Can take 1-3 months to see full effects
- Single bottles aren't as cost-effective
- Must use daily for continued benefits
Petlab Co.'s formula sets itself apart as a top-rated breath freshener and anti-tartar solution that's completely fuss-free to use long-term. As thousands of happy pet parents demonstrate, adding it as an effortless step of your dog's daily water routine helps ensure healthy teeth and gums for years.
Greenies Regular Natural Dental Care Dog Treats
As an Amazon's Choice product with over 50,000 ratings and 4.8 stars, Greenies Fresh Dental Treats are clearly a top choice for dog owners seeking to improve their furry friend's oral health and fresh breath. These natural treats promote clean teeth through their innovative chewy texture that helps fight plaque and tartar buildup. Made in the USA with quality ingredients including wheat flour, glycerin, gelatin and no artificial additives, they provide complete and balanced daily nutrition filled with essential vitamins and minerals.
With the top customer-rated features of freshness, flavor, ingredient quality, and longevity, these dental treats are an excellent choice. The fresh mint flavor bursts with greenie goodness in every bite to get tails wagging. Available in a range of flavors like Gingerbread and Sweet Potato and sizes for dogs from tiny breeds to large breeds, there’s a perfect Greenies natural dental chew to match every dog’s preferences.
Customers praise these chews for noticeable improvements in bad breath and keeping teeth clean and healthy over time with consistent use as directed.
Pros
- Promotes dental health with patented chewy texture
- Bursting with yummy fresh mint flavor
- Made in the USA with quality natural ingredients
- Balanced daily nutrition including essential vitamins
- High 4.8-star rating with over 50,000 reviews
Cons
- Can present a choking hazard if not adequately chewed
- Must commit to daily treat regimen for full benefits
With their unbeatable combination of dental cleaning action, tasty flavors, rave customer reviews, and made-in-the-USA quality, Greenies is clearly a cut above generic treats. These little minty miracles can transform doggy breath in no time, revealing the happy, healthy smile you know and love.
Oxyfresh Premium Pet Dental Solution Water Additive
Our next pick, Oxyfresh's Premium Pet Dental Solution water additive is designed to help eliminate bad pet breath while cleaning teeth and gums. This veterinarian-recommended product comes in three sizes - Intro 8oz, Top Seller 16 oz, and Vet Choice Gallon, with prices ranging from $17.95 to $99.95.
The Oxyfresh solution offers a convenient way to improve your pet's oral health without the hassle of brushing. Simply add a capful to your pet's water bowl each day. The additive helps fight plaque and tartar while leaving water odorless and tasteless, so picky drinkers won't notice.
Made in the USA using high-quality ingredients, Oxyfresh is a small business brand trusted by pet parents. It earns strong customer ratings for ease of use, scent, flavor, and value. With consistent use, you'll notice fresher breath and cleaner teeth in your furry friend.
Pros
- Convenient oral care without brushing
- Fights plaque and tartar
- High-quality USA-made formula
- Odorless and tasteless for picky pets
- Noticeable improvement in pet breath
Cons
- Daily use is required for full benefits
- Larger sizes can be costly
The Oxyfresh Pet Dental Solution Water Additive stands out for its veterinarian-backed formula and convenience. If you're looking for an easy way to care for your pet's teeth and combat bad dog breath, this additive may be just what you and your pup need.
Minties VetIQ Dog Dental Bone Treats, Dental Chews for Dogs
The Minties Mint Bones dental treats are a vet-recommended product made in the USA. These dental chews promote clean teeth and fresh breath through their unique shape, texture, and ingredients.
With their distinctive bone shape and nubbly texture, the Mint Bones rub against your dog's teeth to remove plaque and tartar as they chew. The abrasive surface scrapes away buildup while giving your dog a satisfying, long-lasting chew. Because plaque and tartar cause halitosis in dogs, reducing deposits freshens their breath.
What sets the Mint Bones apart is the addition of five botanical breath fresheners - alfalfa, parsley, fennel, dill, and peppermint. These chlorophyll-rich plants neutralize odors naturally. The minty aroma combined with the cleaning action of chewing yields excellent oral hygiene and prevents bad dog breath.
Daily use is ideal for maintaining your dog's dental health. The Mint Bones are perfectly sized for medium to large breeds over 40 lbs. And since good oral health promotes overall wellness, they make an excellent supplement to kibble. With 60 treats per 3lb bag, you get an affordable two-month supply from a quality brand.
Pros
- Vet-recommended dental care
- Cleans teeth and controls tartar
- Freshens breath naturally
- Dogs love the flavor
- Two-month supply per bag
Cons
- Only for 40+ lb dogs
- Not suitable for aggressive chewers
The Minties Mint Bones outperform the competition for dental care plus breath freshening. Their tooth-cleaning texture, paired with botanical ingredients, make these chews the top choice for dogs over 40 lbs. Providing two solid months of oral hygiene and odor elimination per bag, the Mint Bones are a premium yet affordable way to promote your best friend's health.
Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Water Additive
The Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Water Additive is designed to help freshen dog breath and reduce plaque and tartar buildup. As a water additive, it offers another convenient way to improve your dog's oral health without brushing. Just add one tablespoon to your dog's water bowl for every 32 ounces of water.
This unscented dental solution contains Denta-C, which is scientifically formulated to reduce plaque by altering the pH level in your dog's saliva. Over time, the additive helps control tartar and curtail offensive mouth odors. The result is promoted fresh breath and cleaner teeth.
Made in the USA, this veterinarian-recommended product complements a daily dental care routine. The 32-ounce bottle should last for at least a month, making it easier to establish a preventative dental health regimen. The water additive format also appeals to dogs over typical brushing.
Pros
- Convenient water additive format
- Scientifically formulated to reduce plaque
- Veterinarian recommended
- Promotes fresher breath
- Easy dosing instructions
- Good value 32 oz size
Cons
- May not remove existing tartar
Nylabone's Advanced Oral Care Water Additive offers a veterinarian-backed plaque-fighting formula that is easy to use. The water additive approach delivers continuous teeth cleaning throughout the day without the hassle of brushing. Customers report noticeable improvements in their dog's breath within weeks, along with reduced buildup over time.
Pets Are Kids Too Premium Pet Dental Spray
Next on our list, the Pets Are Kids Too Premium Pet Dental Spray is an effective and safe way to improve dental health for dogs and cats. Made in the USA using natural ingredients like baking soda, aloe vera, and peppermint, this 8 oz mint-flavored spray works to eliminate bad breath at the source.
You can simply spray it directly into your pet's mouth to fight plaque, tartar and freshen breath. Alternatively, add 3-5 sprays to your pet's drinking water for hassle-free dental care. The spray is gentle enough for pets of all ages yet powerful enough to replace brushing or dental treats. It is veterinarian-approved and recommended by pet health experts.
The minty fresh spray targets the causes of bad breath in pets like bacteria and gum disease. Natural ingredients break down plaque and tartar while freshening breath for long-lasting results. The convenient spray application works well for pets that don't tolerate toothbrushes or chews.
Regular use of the dental spray can strengthen gums and prevent more serious dental disease according to veterinary associations. As a dog or cat owner, you will appreciate the spray's ability to eliminate offensive pet breath. More importantly, your furry friend will benefit from better oral health.
Pros
- Convenient spray fights plaque and bad breath
- Veterinarian-approved and expert-recommended
- Minty fresh smell dogs and cats tolerate well
- Strengthens gums and prevents dental disease
- Natural ingredients gentle for long-term use
Cons
- Spray less effective than brushing teeth
The Pets Are Kids Too Premium Dental Spray offers a simple yet effective home dental care solution for cat and dog owners. With regular use, the natural mint spray can help defend against dental disease while keeping your pet's breath fresh. For an easy-to-use and veterinarian-trusted dental care product, this premium spray is a great choice.
Dental Fresh Original Formula Water Additive
Dental Fresh offers an unflavored liquid water additive that makes maintaining good dental hygiene for your pet as simple as adding one teaspoon per 8 oz of water. Like a toothbrush in a bottle, it goes to work every time your pet takes a drink.
With consistent use, Dental Fresh cleans tartar buildup on teeth and freshens bad pet breath. The formula contains no alcohol, sugar, detergents or artificial flavors - just premium ingredients to safely and effectively promote healthier gums and whiter teeth. Veterinarians recommend proactive dental care to avoid serious health issues like heart, kidney and liver disease. This affordable solution prevents these problems and the tooth loss associated with untreated periodontal disease.
You'll have confidence knowing your furry friend's dental health is covered without the battle of brushing. The water additive format works for multi-pet households since it's formulated for both cats and dogs. Simply add to your pet's regular drinking water and let Dental Fresh work its magic.
Over time, your pet will thank you for fresher breath and improved dental health with happier, healthier days together. Snuggle and play without turning away from bad breath odors. Focus on what matters most rather than worrying about dental problems.
Pros
- Cleans tartar and freshens breath
- Unflavored formula safe for dogs and cats
- Convenient liquid additive for water
- Veterinarian-recommended dental care
- Affordable preventative oral health
Cons
- Does not replace a full dental cleaning
Dental Fresh's Water Additive offers a simple way to improve your pet's oral health. The toothbrush-in-a-bottle formula cleans tartar, freshens breath and prevents serious dental disease - all from adding a liquid to your pet's drinking water. For affordable, veterinarian-recommended preventative dental care, Dental Fresh is a good choice.
TropiClean Fresh Breath Plus Glucosamine Hip & Joint Dog Water Additive
TropiClean's Fresh Breath Plus water additive is one of the most effective and convenient options for combating bad dog breath.
This 33.8 oz bottle is incredibly easy to use - simply measure out half a capful and mix it into your dog's water bowl twice a day. Within 14 days or less, you'll notice a drastic improvement in your dog's breath. The formula works to kill the bacteria causing halitosis while also preventing further plaque and tartar buildup.
A major advantage over other dog breath fresheners is the ease of use. Dogs drink the solution and it works internally to create cleaner, healthier gums and teeth. The longer they're on it, the better the results.
What's great is that TropiClean added hip and joint-supporting glucosamine as well. As our dogs age, cartilage breakdown can cause pain and mobility issues. Providing supplementary glucosamine helps ease inflammation, nurturing joint health from the inside out. The formula is also available with various additives for other purposes, including advanced whitening, digestive support, skin & coat, and a dedicated plaque remover.
Pros
- Fights halitosis within 14 days
- VOHC certified for oral health
- Naturally derived ingredients
- No brushing or hassle
- Supports joint & hip health
- Also available for other purposes
- Veterinarian recommended
Cons
- Can cause extra drooling
- Not for puppies
For adult dogs struggling with bad breath and stiffness, TropiClean's Hip & Joint Fresh Breath Plus is an excellent solution. It offers a complete approach to freshening breath while optimizing dental and joint health. The convenience factor is unmatched - simply add it to your dog's drinking water and let the formula go to work. This is definitely one of the best and most effective bad breath remedies out there.
Blue Buffalo Dental Bones
The Blue Buffalo Dental Bones are an excellent choice for keeping your dog's teeth clean and their breath fresh. These dental chews come in four sizes - mini, small, regular and large - to accommodate dogs from 5 to over 50 pounds. The mini dental bones are specially formulated for smaller breed adult dogs between 5 and 15 pounds.
Made by the reputable Blue Buffalo brand, these dental chews contain wholesome natural ingredients like potatoes, vegetable glycerin, carrot, blueberries, and flaxseed. They are free from corn, wheat, soy, poultry by-products, and artificial preservatives. The textured surface helps remove plaque and tartar buildup while the tasty flavor profile keeps your dog engaged in chewing. As your dog gnaws on these dental bones, the abrasive action scrubs their teeth clean.
Regular use of the Blue Buffalo Dental Bones as part of your dog's oral care routine will help maintain healthy teeth and gums. The chewing action also freshens their breath. These are not meant for puppies or dogs under 5 pounds. It is important to monitor your dog while they enjoy these chewy treats.
Pros
- Cleans teeth and freshens dog breath
- Wholesome natural ingredients
- Four sizes for dogs 5 pounds and up
- Textured surface removes plaque and tartar
- Tasty flavor dogs love
Cons
- Not for puppies or small dogs under 5 pounds
- Needs supervision while the dog is chewing
These mini dental bones are perfectly sized for smaller breed adult dogs between 5 and 15 pounds. Their tooth-scrubbing texture and mouth-watering flavor make them ideal for maintaining your dog's oral health. We highly recommend them for efficient cleaning and odor removal from your dog's mouth.
Virbac VeggieDent FR3SH Dental Dog Treats
Virbac's VeggieDent FR3SH dental treats are an excellent option for keeping your medium-sized dog's teeth clean and breath fresh. As a plant-based chew made with wholesome ingredients, this product delivers effective dental care along with digestive and oral health benefits.
With its unique Z-shape, each VeggieDent FR3SH stick reaches all areas of your dog's mouth, reducing tartar and plaque buildup when given daily. This addresses the root oral causes of bad breath, leaving their breath noticeably fresher within the first day. The formula also contains prebiotics to support your dog's gut flora and digestion.
You'll appreciate that these chews use non-GMO corn, contain no artificial additives or meat ingredients, and are gluten-free for easy digestibility. Moderately low in calories at 75 per chew, you can feel good rewarding your pup with these plant-based treats.
These treats have earned the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of approval. This prestigious certification further validates the chews' unique shape and proven effectiveness for canine oral health. Based on customer ratings measuring key criteria like flavor, scent, value and freshness, dog owners are clearly happy with the product.
Pros
- Cleans teeth and reduces dog breath odor
- VOHC certified for oral health
- Promotes gut and digestive health
- Gluten-free and easily digestible
- No artificial ingredients or additives
Cons
- Relatively expensive
- Limited flavor options
If you're looking for a dental care chew that naturally freshens dog breath, delivers digestive support, and carries the Veterinary Oral Health Council seal, Virbac VeggieDent FR3SH is a winning choice. With its specialized Z-shape and proven plaque-reducing ability, you can feel confident giving these plant-based treats knowing your pup's oral health is in good hands.
Buying Guide - Factors to Consider While Choosing a Dog Breath Freshener
Keeping your dog's breath fresh and their teeth clean is an important part of maintaining their health and comfort. With so many options for dog breath fresheners available, it can be tricky to decide which product is right for your pup. This buying guide outlines the key factors to consider when choosing a dog breath freshener.
Ingredients
The ingredients in any dog breath freshener should be carefully reviewed for safety and effectiveness.
Look for all-natural ingredients free of known toxins like xylitol. Check customer reviews for any indications of negative reactions or side effects from specific ingredients as well.
Also, steer clear of artificial flavors, colors and preservatives when possible.
Safety
Ensure any dog breath freshener is specifically designed and approved for use with dogs. Verify the intended weight range covers your dog's size.
In addition, avoid products similar in texture or hardness to treats your dog has struggled with or been put off by in the past.
Form
Dog breath fresheners come in various forms:
- Water Additives: Added to your dog's water bowl or bottle; these can be very effective, but some dogs don't like changes in water taste.
- Dental Treats: Often most effective but have to be size appropriate and your dog must enjoy the flavor.
- Gels: Applied directly to the teeth and gums, these fresheners are convenient but typically need to be applied more frequently than other options.
- Sprays: Spritzed in the dog's mouth, sprays are also very convenient for quick fresh breath but typically don't provide extended freshening.
Consider your dog's preferences and your own needs in terms of convenience and dental health in determining the ideal form.
Dental Health Benefits
Look for products with specific dental health benefits beyond just temporary breath freshening. Key areas to review are plaque and tartar control and gum health.
Many quality dog breath fresheners should provide these benefits while also freshening the dog's breath.
Country of Manufacture
When possible, choose dog breath fresheners made in the United States, as the manufacturing standards and quality control tend to be more stringent.
Other regions you can trust also include, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Western Europe, where the manufacturing standards are also stricter than in other parts of the world.
Price
Dog breath fresheners range in price depending on the type, size, ingredients, and other factors. In general, quality dental treats or water additives may cost more than a basic spray or gel.
Compare products taking into account all the factors above rather than making a decision based on price alone. Your dog's dental health is worth investing in.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for a dog's health and happiness. As the statistics show, the vast majority of canines (over 60%) suffer from dental disease and bad breath, causing concern for many owners. Fortunately, the 10 best dog breath fresheners reviewed here offer a tasty solution. These thoughtfully crafted products not only deliver a delicious experience dogs crave, but also provide the dental care and breath freshening they desperately need.
By regularly treating your pup to these vet-recommended goodies, you can dramatically improve their oral health, combat plaque and tartar buildup, and fill their kisses with minty freshness. With many great options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect fit for your furry friend.
As always, consult your veterinarian, monitor your dog's health, and reach out below with any questions or insights from your own experience.
Thanks for reading!
