Is This Normal? Finder · Mouth and teeth

My puppy's breath smells bad. Is that normal?

By Dr. Steve Pelton, DVM

The short answer

That sweet, slightly odd puppy breath is normal, and it fades as the adult teeth come in. A truly rotten smell isn't puppy breath. It can mean a stuck baby tooth, an infection or something lodged in his mouth, so give your vet a call.

Why it happens

Puppy breath is mostly a milk-and-teething smell. A truly bad smell usually means something is infected or stuck, like a baby tooth that won't let go or food wedged in.

Which door?

WATCHPuppy breath is normal.
CALL TODAYIt turns truly foul.

When to call

Tick what fits and see which door you're at.

CALL TODAYA truly foul smell
CALL TODAYChewing on one side, dropping food or pawing at his mouth

Your door: WATCHWATCH

Nothing ticked and he's bright, playful, eating and drinking? Keep an eye on him, jot down what you see, and call in the daytime if it doesn't settle.

Under 16 weeks, a toy breed, or not done with his shots? Move everything one door closer to GO NOW.

Not sure which door you're at? That's a call. Call your vet.

Worried right now? Check the Three Doors list, from most urgent down, and stop at the first door that fits.

Is this an emergency?

General education, not veterinary advice. Your vet's plan for your puppy comes first.