Yikes. That’s the word that comes to mind when my dog yawns directly in my face during morning cuddles. Dog breath is real, and it’s not pleasant.
I’ve tried commercial breath mints, expensive dental chews, even those water additives that promise miracles. Nothing really worked long-term, and the ingredient lists on most products made me uncomfortable.
Then I discovered these homemade breath mints. Fresh herbs, simple ingredients, and they actually work.
My dog thinks they’re treats, I get fresher puppy kisses, and I know exactly what’s going into his mouth. Win-win-win.
Why These Breath Mints Are a Must-Try
- Natural Odor-Fighting Power
Parsley and mint contain chlorophyll, nature’s deodorizer, which neutralizes bad breath at the source rather than just masking it with artificial flavors.
- Supports Digestive Health
Fresh herbs aid digestion, and since bad breath often originates from the gut rather than just the mouth, these treats work from the inside out.
- Probiotic Benefits
Greek yogurt delivers beneficial bacteria that promote oral health and support a balanced microbiome in your dog’s mouth and digestive system.
DIY Dog Breath Mints Recipe
Makes approximately 30-40 small mints, depending on mold size
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fresh spinach | ½ cup |
| Fresh parsley | ½ cup |
| Fresh mint | ⅓ cup |
| Plain Greek yogurt | 2 tablespoons |
| Coconut oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Water | ¼ cup |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Rinse all fresh herbs thoroughly under cool water to remove any dirt or pesticides. Pat dry with paper towels or use a salad spinner. Remove any thick stems from the spinach and parsley.
Step 2: Soften Your Coconut Oil
If your coconut oil is solid, warm it gently until it becomes liquid. You can do this by placing the measuring spoon in a cup of warm water for 30 seconds, or microwave it for 5-10 seconds.
Step 3: Combine Your Ingredients
Add the spinach, parsley, and mint to a blender or food processor. Pour in the water first, and then add the Greek yogurt and liquefied coconut oil on top.
Step 4: Blend Until Smooth
Start blending on low speed to break down the herbs, then increase to high speed. Blend for 30-45 seconds until you achieve a completely smooth, vibrant green mixture. The mixture should flow easily. If it seems too thick and won’t pour, add water one teaspoon at a time and blend again.
Step 5: Pour Into Molds
Pour or spoon the green mixture into ice cube trays, silicone molds, or mini muffin tins. Small molds work best since these are meant to be quick breath fresheners, not full meals.
Step 6: Freeze Until Solid
Place the molds in your freezer on a flat surface. Freeze for a minimum of 3-4 hours, though overnight is ideal for completely solid mints. Smaller molds will freeze faster than larger ones.
Storage Tips
Freezer Storage (Up to 3 Months): Store the mints in an airtight freezer bag or container with as much air removed as possible. Layer parchment paper between mints if stacking to prevent them from freezing together. Label with the date so you know when you made them.
Serving Instructions: Serve directly from the freezer—no thawing needed! The frozen texture actually helps clean teeth as your dog chews. For smaller dogs or seniors with dental issues, let the mint sit at room temperature for 3-5 minutes to soften slightly.
Quality Check: While safe to eat beyond 3 months, the herbs may lose some of their potency and the texture might become slightly grainy from freezer burn. For best results and maximum freshness, use within 2-3 months.
Serving Suggestions
| Dog Weight | Serving Size | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| 5-15 lbs | ½ small mint | 1-2 times daily |
| 16-30 lbs | 1 small mint | 1-2 times daily |
| 31-50 lbs | 1-2 small mints | 1-2 times daily |
| 51-70 lbs | 2 small mints | 2-3 times daily |
| 71+ lbs | 2-3 small mints | 2-3 times daily |
Dairy Sensitivities: If your dog is lactose intolerant or has dairy sensitivities, substitute the Greek yogurt with dairy-free coconut yogurt. The texture will be slightly different but still effective.
Introduce Gradually: Start with smaller portions to ensure your dog tolerates the herbs well. Some dogs with very sensitive stomachs may experience mild digestive changes when first trying fresh herbs.
Not a Replacement for Dental Care: These breath mints help freshen breath and support oral health, but they don’t replace regular tooth brushing or professional dental cleanings. Continue your dog’s normal dental care routine.
Benefits of the Ingredients
Fresh Spinach – Packed with vitamins A, C, and K to boost immunity and eye health while naturally freshening breath. Use fresh leaves (not frozen) for best texture.
Fresh Parsley – Fights bad breath and supports digestion. Choose fresh curly or flat-leaf parsley for maximum chlorophyll and nutrients.
Fresh Mint – Cools the mouth, freshens breath, and helps neutralize odor-causing bacteria. Use sparingly—fresh mint is potent.
Plain Greek Yogurt – Provides probiotics for gut health and digestion. Always use plain, unsweetened yogurt with live cultures—never flavored or sweetened.
Coconut Oil – Promotes a shiny coat, healthy skin, and oral health with natural antibacterial fats. Use virgin or extra-virgin coconut oil.
FAQs
My dog won’t eat these. Any tips?
Some dogs are suspicious of green treats at first. Try breaking off a tiny piece and mixing it with a little peanut butter. Once they taste it, most dogs come around.
Are these safe for puppies?
Puppies over 12 weeks can try small amounts. Start with just a lick or tiny piece to ensure they tolerate the herbs well. Adjust serving sizes based on puppy weight.
How quickly will I see results?
Many pet parents notice fresher breath after just 2-3 days of consistent use. For dogs with more serious bad breath issues, it may take 1-2 weeks to see significant improvement.
Final Thoughts
Fresh breath, fresh ingredients, and a fresh approach to canine oral health that doesn’t involve wrestling your dog to brush their teeth twice daily.
Are they a miracle cure? No. But they’re a simple, natural way to improve your dog’s breath between brushings, and they take less than 10 minutes to make.
Plus, there’s something satisfying about knowing you’re giving your dog something beneficial rather than just masking a problem with artificial flavors.
Make a batch, stash them in your freezer, and enjoy fresher puppy kisses. Your nose will thank you.