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"  1. ASSESS THE STENCH Somewhat smelly breath is a given for most dogs and cats (due to the foods they eat). But if your animal&amp;#039;s breath is noticeably worse than usual, you should schedule an oral exam at the vet right away. Halitosis often indicates periodontal disease, which can cause an infection of the heart valves, liver problems and other organ issues. 2. FIND THE RIGHT FLAVOR Daily brushing is the best way to freshen canine breath, but the trick is to use a brush and paste your pup will tolerate. So, if she loves chicken treats, try poultry-flavored toothpaste. First, let her lick a dot of paste off your finger, then work up to a pet-specific brush. Try the EZDog Triple Toothbrush ($4.99; DrsFosterAndSmith.com). RELATED: Game of Fetch Turns Into Heartwarming Reunion 3. GIVE HER A SQUIRT A DAY If brushing is impossible some days, use a water additive or spray that contains chlorhexidine. The compound softens tartar and plaque, making it easier to remove with a brush later. Try Healthymouth products, which have the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of approval and come in jumbo sizes online ($52 and up; HealthyMouth.com). RELATED: How To Keep Your Pet Quiet 4. LET HER CHEW Certain toys and edible products can help scrape off tartar and plaque while stimulating your dog&amp;#039;s gums. Try Milk-Bone&amp;#039;s Brushing Chews ($4.28 and up; Walmart.com), which reduce plaque with unique twists, nubs and ridges. Hard rawhide or plastic bones such as Nylabones are effective tooth cleaners as well. RELATED: The Healthiest Homemade Dog Treats Photo: Getty Images Source: Emily Hoppmann, DVM, Elgin Veterinary Hospital, Elgin, SC "^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
<http://www.womansday.com/life/pet-care/a243/bad-breath-in-dogs/>