Are you wondering if mouthwash can improve your dog’s bad breath?
Is this even a realistic idea?
First thing’s first:
Mouthwash needs to be thoroughly swished around and gargled for it to be effective. Unfortunately, your dog may swallow it.
Do Not Give Your Dog Mouthwash
This type of oral hygiene product doesn’t make sense for canines.
Commercial mouthwash is all wrong for animals. Most brands, such as Listerine, contain alcohol and other ingredients that your dog has no business ingesting.
Your buddy will likely swallow the liquid and their stomach is where mouthwash will end up. Not good!
What you’re looking for is a special freshener water additive that is specifically for dogs.
Mouthwash Ingredients
Find out what’s exactly in mouthwash and you will know it’s not OK for your dog.
The thing is these products can contain as much as 27% alcohol!
And mouthwash often has preservatives, such as sodium benzoate, which can easily harm your dog’s stomach.
Wondering about the active ingredients?
They typically include antiseptics, astringents and various chemical compounds.
You do not want these nasty mouthwash chemicals sitting in your dog’s tummy.
Mouthwash For Dogs
Research specially-formulated oral care to treat your dog’s bad breath problem. These are developed and tested to ensure there are no negative reactions.
Such products allow for swallowing and will pass through their digestive system uneventfully.
It is much more effective and safer than human mouthwash, for sure!
Cleaning Teeth is Key
There are also canine toothpastes and toothbrushes.
With these, and the above-mentioned mouthwash made for dogs, you’ll have everything you need to keep your buddy’s mouth smelling fresh.
Using these products on a regular basis will go a long way towards keeping your dog’s mouth clean and in good shape!
Preventative care is so important. Be sure to schedule regular cleanings.
And establish an at-home cleaning routine, either every other day or at least once a week, to keep plaque from accumulating.
The Truth About Mouths
Your dog’s mouth is probably cleaner than that of your average human.
Sure, it doesn’t seem that way most of the time.
In any case, consult with your vet if your dog has exceptionally bad breath as there may be an underlying medical problem.
The Bottom Line
Do not use human mouthwash as a fix for your dog’s bad breath.
Swallowing of harsh chemicals, additives and alcohol must be avoided. Besides, mouthwash won’t be effective since dogs cannot gargle.
I believe many well-meaning dog owners do not know their dog’s teeth should be professionally cleaned annually by a vet.
Dogs can suffer terribly with gum and teeth problems while humans complain about their breath smelling.
Please, if you love your pets, look after them. You wouldn’t not clean your own teeth.