Got Doggie Breath? Recipe: Dog Breath Freshener Treats

We all know the familiar “dog breath” smell. While it may be the object of many jokes, there’s nothing funny about that smell–at its best it keeps you from getting close to your dog, at its worst, it can signal dental or other health problems. We’ve got an easy recipe for dog breath freshener treats your dog will love!

Make sure that dog breath isn’t because of a dental problem!

First, be sure that “dog breath” isn’t a sign of an underlying problem like an abscessed tooth or gingivitis.

Check your dog’s teeth and also look for inflammation of the gums or an inflammation of the tissue surrounding the tooth (Periodontitis), debris stuck in your dog’s mouth, and sores in his mouth.

Your veterinarian can tell you if your dog just needs a breath cleanser or if a dental cleaning or tests are needed to check for possible kidney or digestive issues.

Once your dog has received a clean bill of health, you can address that doggie breath with some dog breath freshener treats.

Never use human breath fresheners!

Repeat after me: never, ever give your dog human mouthwashes, toothpaste or breath mints. These often contain chemicals dangerous to your dog; many also contain xylitol, a toxic chemical used in many human oral care products that is potentially fatal to dogs.

Only use toothpastes specially formulated for dogs whenever you are brushing your dog’s teeth.

How to Make Dog Breath Freshener Treats

Once you’ve ruled out any kind of dental problem, consider a refreshing dog breath treat, one that’s easy to make right in your own kitchen.

Parsley is a natural breath freshener for your dog and, combined with dog favorites like peanut butter, it makes a treat that’s sure to earn you a kiss!

Recipe: Good Breath Dog Treats

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Ingredients

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup non-fat dry milk powder
• 1 cup peanut butter

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a baking sheet or line with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together all dry ingredients in a large bowl. Set aside. In another bowl, beat eggs, then add peanut butter and water. Mix well then slowly add wet ingredients to dry.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface, then roll out to 1/4 –inch thickness.
4. Cut with cookie cutters and bake for 30 minutes or until golden.
5. Cool completely before serving or refrigerating.

Looking for more recipes? Download one of our free dog treat cookbooks!

Cooks: Don’t miss our My Dog Says I’m a Great Cook™ cookbook with over 100 dog treat recipes from the publishers, readers and fans of DogTipper! This paperback book is available in our PawZaar gift store!