A smelly dog is not a pleasant story. Read on to learn about the causes and solutions. Most of our dogs tend to smell bad from time to time, whether it’s their “Frito feet”, bad breath, or the unmistakable odor when they come inside after a walk in the rain, or have rolled in something they find delightful but brings tears to our eyes.
Although most odors have a simple solution, some can be caused by more serious underlying problems. Let’s take a look at why your faithful four-legged friend smells so bad and what you can do about it.
Dog that stinks
Why does my dog stink?
1. Dental problems
The main cause of bad breath in dogs is, just like in people, the buildup of plaque and tartar on their teeth. Some small breeds are particularly prone to dental problems such as periodontal disease. Another issue specific to certain breeds is Gingival Hyperplasia, the overgrowth of the gums that can trap small bits of food and cause a rotten smell. Keeping your dog’s teeth clean at home is the first step to solving this problem, but ultimately your pet may need a dental cleaning from a veterinarian. If you have a policy with petplan you may be able to have part of the cost of a professional dental cleaning reimbursed!
2. Flatulence
Flatulence is a common problem in dogs and if yours can clear the room after passing gas, it is often an intolerance to an ingredient in their food. Working with your veterinarian to switch to another diet, whether grain-free or fish-based, can often help the problem. Excessive gas can, however, sometimes signal an underlying medical issue, so if the smell around your pet persists, you should continue to consult your veterinarian until the problem is resolved.
It is important to know which foods are toxic to dogs and to give healthy treats that support digestion.
3. Allergies
Seasonal allergies or food allergies can cause dermatitis, which leads to excessive oil secretion by certain glands in the skin, resulting in a musty odor. A poor diet can contribute to this condition and can also be the cause of other problems, including fungal infections, which also give off an unpleasant smell. These are often caused by a diet high in carbohydrates and processed foods. Switching to high-protein, unprocessed dog food or trying allergy tablets for dogs can often help with this.
For people with allergies, hypoallergenic dogs are a better choice, while some breeds are less prone to allergic reactions.
4. Ear infections
There are many types of bacteria and yeasts that can cause ear infections. A healthy ear usually has a good defense to fight the bacteria, but if the dog suffers from allergies or hormonal imbalances, the yeast and bacteria can increase dramatically, causing an unpleasant odor. Dogs with hairy or floppy ears such as Basset Hounds and Springer Spaniels can have consistent ear problems unless the ears are kept clean and dry.
5. Anal glands
This is one of the most common causes of smelly dogs. All dogs have two small scent sacs near their rear; it’s a kind of marking gland, which is why dogs sniff each other’s rear ends when they meet. If they become infected or impacted, this can cause pain for the dog and an extremely foul-smelling discharge can be released that sticks to the coat. Another sign that your dog has problems with its anal glands is dragging its rear on the ground or ‘scootering’. Make an appointment with your veterinarian to help you with this problem.
An additional problem that sometimes occurs is that dogs eat their own feces, which of course can also cause unpleasant odors.
What to do:
- Start dental hygiene early to prevent problems. This can include annual dental cleanings, brushing your dog’s teeth at home, and even certain dog chews can help reduce dental buildup.
- Keep skin folds and ears clean and dry. Check your dog’s ears regularly and dry them after swimming or bathing.
- Feed a healthy diet. If you suspect your dog’s diet is the culprit, try a diet with different ingredients. Consult your veterinarian for recommendations.
- Bathe your dog regularly with a shampoo. An obvious but often neglected solution!
- Use this product to get rid of the smell.
In addition, certain breeds may have specific grooming needs. For example, Siberian huskies require special care and English Cocker Spaniels also have their own grooming routine.
Also stress in dogs can sometimes contribute to health problems that cause odors. It is important to create a calm environment for your dog.
If the odor persists, consult your veterinarian, because some medical conditions can cause unusual smells. Breath that smells fruity or sweet can indicate diabetes, while kidney disease or a urinary tract infection can lead to breath that smells like urine. If you enroll in a pet insurance policy before a situation occurs, it can help reduce the costs associated with diagnosing and treating the underlying causes of a smelly dog.
For new dog owners it is also useful to know the right puppy tips after purchase , including grooming advice. Also puppy training tips can help prevent certain behavioral problems that can lead to hygiene problems.
Good luck and happy sniffing!