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Shitzus breath is horrific - Does he have a poor immune system?

2K views 5 replies 4 participants last post by  spotted nikes 
#1 ·
I have 2 shitzus and one of them never seems to have any health problems but the other one doesn't seem to be in the greatest of health. I've noticed that his breath smells exceptionally bad, it reeks of a dead fish type odour. Its so foul that when he breaths in my face when I'm asleep I start having nightmares and wake up gasping for air thinking I'm about to die. The other shitzu does not have bad breath at all. I suspect this is an indication that the dogs immune system isn't the greatest. I ordered some antibacterial chew treats to try and take care of his bad breath but are there any home remedies I can use to boost his immune system? I'm thinking about putting echinacea or garlic extract capsules in his food but I don't know what these substances would do to a shitzu.

Also another thing I've noticed is that this dog has been kinda lethargic for years now. The other shitzu is full of energy and is so agile she can nearly climb walls like a cat but this dog can barely get up onto the couch (which is a pain in the ass cuz he sits there moaning until someone will lift him up). Is this just the way he is or could there be a medical issue behind why he isn't very active and agile?
 
#4 ·
Thats probably half your problem. Pedigree is an awful food.

Upgrade to a good quality food and you may just find it goes away.

Every dog is different. One of mine smells horrible on any dog food the other did just fine on blue buffalo.
 
#6 ·
Pedigree is one step up from sawdust. Go to www.dogfoodanalysis.com and find a 4 star or better food.

Many times bad breath indicates a tooth abcess. That would cause lethargy, as a low level infection will drain strength, and can also set them up for other illnesses. Get a vet check and include a dental exam and blood workup. There's many other things that could cause lethargy...lyme disease, anemia, etc.
 
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