People bring dogs into their lives for companionship. The hugs, the wet nose kisses, the cozy evenings on the sofa. Yet a single issue often interferes: halitosis. Recently, pet parenting specialist and animal advocate Kristen Levine took part in a satellite media tour, in collaboration with Minties and D S Simon Media, aimed at helping pet owners address that unpleasant breath and rediscover those intimate moments with their canines.
As pet owners everywhere search for methods to maintain closeness with their dogs without that less‑than‑fresh breath interrupting, Kristen Levine delivers useful, realistic suggestions.
Below are key questions and specialist responses from Kristen Levine:
What are the most common causes of bad dog breath?
For Levine, the conversation always starts with the bond, not the science. "We got dogs to be close to them, the cuddles, the face licks, the snuggling on the couch," she said. "But there's one thing that quietly gets in the way of all of that: bad breath."
Canine bad breath generally arises from bacteria accumulating on a dog's teeth as time passes. The positive side is that through proper daily routines, pet owners can prevent it and quickly return to those affectionate moments that make the relationship with their pet so unique.
Which daily routines and dietary adjustments can assist in improving a dog's breath?
Levine suggests several straightforward practices that integrate seamlessly into daily life. Annual veterinary checkups are an excellent starting point, as your vet can examine and provide tailored recommendations.
At home, regular tooth brushing has a significant impact, even if done just once or twice per week. "Even if you only do this once or twice a week, it makes a really big difference," she said. Providing fresh, clean water all day is more important than many owners think. And Levine's top suggestion, which her dog Tulip also adores, is incorporating a daily treat habit. "That is my favorite tip, and definitely Tulip's favorite tip," she said.
What factors should pet owners consider when selecting a treat, and how do products such as Minties FreshBites fit into a dog's everyday schedule?
Regarding treat selection, Levine advises looking for components that promote fresher breath, a texture that dogs truly relish chewing, and a sufficiently low calorie count to allow multiple treats per day. "That's really why we chose Minties FreshBites, because it checks all of those boxes," she said.
Formulated with five natural herbs that freshen breath—alfalfa, peppermint, fennel, dill, and parsley—FreshBites are intended for repeated use during the day, containing just 7.5 calories each.
Levine has turned this into a cherished daily practice. "I can give Tulip several a day, which I do. It's part of our routine. She gets one in the morning, she gets one before her nap in the afternoon, and she always gets one at bedtime," she shared. "Building those routines makes it more automatic, and it's a small way to stay close to your dog every single day."
Pet owners can explore Minties.com for additional advice and resources, and to purchase FreshBites, which are also sold at Walmart, Chewy, Amazon, and Petco.
About Kristen Levine:
Kristen has been intensely devoted to animals from childhood, owning over 30 pets throughout her lifetime — including dogs, cats, goats, donkeys, a horse, a gerbil, mice, and chickens!
Her initial involvement with the SPCA Tampa Bay set her on a permanent path in the pet sector, championing animals and their owners through her blog and various media appearances.
Currently, Kristen Levine is a widely recognized pet authority, influencer, and Fear Free Certified® Professional who brings more than three decades of experience with animals.
Via her blog and her book, Pampered Pets on a Budget, she has assisted countless pet owners in resolving issues and delivering optimal care for their canines and felines.
Collaborating with numerous pet experts—vets, behaviorists, trainers—motivated Kristen to serve as a pet parenting “guide,” offering readers trustworthy details on health, wellness, and lifestyle for dogs, cats, and their human companions.
A passionate supporter of pet adoption and rescue, Kristen has showcased more than 1,000 adoptable SPCA dogs and cats during live TV and radio segments to help them find homes. Her website, KristenLevine.com, has appeared in over 100 media outlets – including the New York Times, USA Today, FOX & Friends, Good Morning America, Women’s Day, Reader’s Digest, Good Housekeeping, Pop Sugar, and more.
To remain current on pet health and lifestyle trends, Kristen participates on a board for veterinary clinical trials at BluePearl Science and frequently attends leading animal health, veterinary, and pet product conferences, where she is often a keynote speaker.
Tune in to Kristen's newest endeavor: hosting the Pets Add Life podcast with the American Pet Products Association.
About D S Simon Media:
The company is widely recognized as a frontrunner in the satellite media tour sector, conducting tours from its studio and multiple control rooms at its New York base. Clients include major names in healthcare, technology, travel, financial services, consumer goods, entertainment, retail, and non‑profits. Established in 1986, the firm has earned over 100 industry awards.
About YourUpdateTV: YourUpdateTV belongs to D S Simon Media. The accompanying video and this press release were elements of a media tour produced by D S Simon Media for Minties.
Press Contact
Michael O’Donnell
D S Simon Media
212-736-2727
modonnell@dssimon.com
A video supporting this announcement is located at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/db2ef4b7-a926-4eeb-9a86-80775e195b64
