Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Become a member today!
Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
Already a member? Sign in
Become a credit card member today!
Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!
APPLY NOW
Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My 5-month puppy's breath smells metallic. Teething or serious?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Weimaraner | Female | spayed | 4 months and 22 days old | 30 lbs

I have a 5 month old Weimaraner puppy. For a couple months now her breath has had a very metallic smell to it. Like blood. Could this be from teething or is it something more serious? The only other health issue we have had with her is that when we got her in December she had Giardia but she took the panacur and she has since been cleared. She acts normal and eats all her food. The only other thing is sometimes she has a little bit of trouble pooping. But she plays, sleeps, and acts super happy.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 22nd, 2020

Yes, the metallic smell can be from teething. I would not be overly worried about it. All her adult teeth should be in by about 6 months of age, if after that the smell persists then you should have your vet check her out. You can give her 1/4 cup of canned pumpkin per day (pure pumpkin, not pie filling) to help with her pooping.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Related Questions

Health & Wellness

Why does my puppy's breath smell bad if her teeth are clean?

It could be just normal puppy breath. Some people feel like it doesn't smell good. If she tends to eat poop, this could also be the cause. With her being so young, I would not expect her to have any dental tartar causing a smell. If it continues or it gets worse, I would have your vet take a look at the mouth to ensure there isn't an infection somewhere.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Is garlic-like breath normal for healthy 6-week-old puppies?

It's likely a normal smell for puppies at this age. This "puppy breath" is very strong and unpleasant smelling, but goes away and turns into dog breath around the time they are 3-4 months old. If the pups are otherwise normal, then I would not be concerned. They are due for their first vaccines between 6-8 weeks of age, so you can have the vet check the breath when you take them in for that. They usually do a thorough "first puppy exam" when you initially take them in at that time. I hope that helps and all the pups stay healthy.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Why does my 6-month-old puppy have bad breath that smells like poop?

I would bring him in for an exam. There are related organ changes that can produce bad breath. Organ changes Ike be best evaluated with blood work and a good physical exam. Your dog is young so it limits my differential list. It makes me think more of something congenital or a basic nutritional deficiency

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Health & Wellness

Why is my 4-week-old puppy's poop soft and smells like metal?

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Soft stools can be normal as they transition from formula to kibble or canned food. If she is otherwise doing well, this may be ok. If it ever becomes consistent diarrhea, have her evaluated by a veterinarian before her scheduled appointment. Keep in mind that it may be best to continue the formula until she is 6 weeks old. Best of luck!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Training & Behavior

Why does my 4-month-old puppy's breath smell sweet like marshmallows?

I really don't think it is anything to be worried about. I am not sure why he would have this smell. Usually a sweet smell of the breath is in relation to diabetes but her sure is young to have that, but it is not impossible. I suggest you just keep monitoring him and if the smell does not resolve or you start noticing her is drinking a lot of water and peeing a lot more he should see a vet.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My puppy's breath smells awful. What causes it and when to see a vet?

Yes, this can be a sign that something is wrong with Daisy's mouth causing this smell, but it could also be due to something she is eating. Eating poop is common in puppies, and this will cause bad breath. I'd have her seen by a vet for this bad breath.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Food & Nutrition

Why does my puppy's breath smell like fish food after eating?

I would guess that this is potentially food related, and if it is transient and he is doing well on his food otherwise there may not be anything to be worried about. If it bothers you, you could try changing his diet to another flavor or another brand altogether (I recommend sticking to foods by Purina, Hill's, Royal Canin, Iams or Eukanuba). You could also consider trying a probiotic supplement. Although Guido is young he could still also have a tooth problem and if the odor seems to be around all the time you may want to have your vet examine his mouth.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share