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My dog has bad breath, mucus in stool, and eats grass. What's wrong?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 15 lbs

My dog has very bad breath that in the last week has gotten worse, she also has had mucus in her stools. She also won't stop eating grass which she has never done before. She is active at times and at other times she doesn't want to do anything but sleep. She is 8yrs old and a boston terrier/ chihuahua mix. My dad and mom think she might have cancer but I won't have money to see a vet for a week. Any advice would be great.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on April 28th, 2018

Poor Lucy, if her breath has very suddenly gotten worse then it would suggest to me she has either developed a bad mouth infection or is dehydrated. Considering she also has mucus in her faeces and s eating grass it sounds like she may have a gastrointestinal upset which makes me think dehydration is likely. There are always many possibilities for a gastrointestinal issues, cancer is a possibility but it is far down the lost when compared to more common issues such as indiscretion or infection.
It does sound like she is pretty poorly though, to be honest with you aside from encouraging her to eat and drink you can do little for her at home. If she is unwell as an owner you have a duty of care to get her medical attention so I would encourage you to try and find a way to get her to a vet asap. Many simply treated ailments can become much more serious if left too long.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Poor Lucy, if her breath has very suddenly gotten worse then it would suggest to me she has either developed a bad mouth infection or is dehydrated. Considering she also has mucus in her faeces and s eating grass it sounds like she may have a gastrointestinal upset which makes me think dehydration is likely. There are always many possibilities for a gastrointestinal issues, cancer is a possibility but it is far down the lost when compared to more common issues such as indiscretion or infection.
    It does sound like she is pretty poorly though, to be honest with you aside from encouraging her to eat and drink you can do little for her at home. If she is unwell as an owner you have a duty of care to get her medical attention so I would encourage you to try and find a way to get her to a vet asap. Many simply treated ailments can become much more serious if left too long.

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    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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