Cockapoos are a small breed of dogs created by crossing the Cocker Spaniel with the Poodle. They are usually cream-colored but can also be black and tan, brown, or tri-colored. These dogs have a life span of 12 to 15 years.
Their distinctive breathing propels them upwards so that they can be used to detect land mines and other explosives. Sometimes you may find that your cockapoos breath has a foul smell. This article is written to help you understand why this happens and what you can do about it.
Why Does My Cockapoo Breath Smell?
There are several reasons behind this and below we have listed the most common ones:
1. Inhaled Foreign Substances
Bad breath is often caused by inhaling a foreign substance. Cockapoos are curious little dogs who get themselves into all sorts of trouble. They are known to fetch things and bring them back to their owner. Other times they might bite or chew on something that they shouldn’t and ingest it.
This could be anything from a houseplant to electrical wires, or even poisonous mushrooms. Any of these things can be potentially dangerous if ingested and can produce a bad breath that you may find out about sooner or later.
2. Hereditary Causes
There are several hereditary causes of bad breath in dogs that may also apply to cockapoos. For example, a dog with excess bacteria in its mouth can produce an unpleasant odor. This is more likely to happen when you don’t regularly brush your pet’s teeth. A build-up of tartar and plaque will contribute to the problem and make it worse.
If your pet is suffering from this sort of bad breath you should take them to the vet where they can be examined and treated.
3. Dental Problems
Bad breath can be a sign of tooth problems. If your pet’s teeth have grown too long or are decayed and infected then this will seriously affect the smell of their mouth. Your vet will be able to show you how to clean your pet’s teeth and suggest the best ways for you to do so regularly.
In some cases, the teeth may need to be cleaned by a professional at your vet’s office. If this is required, they should be carefully extracted by a skilled professional who can minimize any pain and discomfort.
4. Gum Disease
Gum disease is another cause of bad breath in dogs. It is caused by bacteria that invade the gums, causing inflammation and bleeding in the area. The bacteria may attack any tooth in the mouth but are most common around the back teeth where food is easily trapped.
Bad breath caused by gum disease should not be ignored and you should consult with your vet about how to deal with it. It can eventually lead to loose teeth or a tooth falling out if it’s left untreated.
5. Allergies
Cockapoos are relatively easy to be allergic to. Allergic dogs will often develop a runny nose and red eyes. This then stands them out from other dogs who may be all right and can lead to an all-around miserable dog who attracts attention because of their odd looks. If you suspect that your pet is allergic to something, then a simple blood test will help you determine what they need to avoid.
6. Heart Problems
Heart problems are yet another reason why your pet’s breath can suddenly change. If they have a heart condition, bad breath is a symptom that often presents itself after exercise or an upset stomach. The reduced blood flow to the lungs and throat could produce a strange odor in your pet’s mouth. An appointment with the vet to rule out any underlying issues would be suggested in such instances.
7. Stress
Sometimes, stress can cause bad breath problems in both dogs and humans alike. Stress can cause trouble both in your dog and in you. It can make dogs less focused, nervous, and wary of new things. In humans, it can cause a persistent cough or headache that won’t go away.
Stress is always important to deal with because it causes an imbalance within the individual and is guaranteed to cause problems if left unchecked. You may feel the need to get a new puppy but if this results in your being unable to handle any stress, then you should reconsider bringing another dog into the home.
Conclusion
A cockapoo’s breath may have a slightly odd smell if they have gotten into something recently. If you can identify what it is, then you can take some action to deal with it. However, bad breath can sometimes be a sign of more serious underlying problems, so always be vigilant and prepared to see your vet.