When you bring home a dog, you have to be willing to accept that your house will now smell like dog. While not foul, smelly dogs often have an unpleasant odor that is often normal. Dogs are naturally smelly animals, so a little bit of stink is to be expected. 

But sometimes, the odor emanating from your pup can be a lot worse and difficult to ignore. This can happen due to a number of reasons, some more severe and worrisome than others.  

This article will help you learn all about the common causes of stinky dogs as well as explore potential solutions and preventative measures.

What Causes Smelly Dogs?

There are several reasons why your dog might have a strong odor. And it’s important to identify the underlying cause of your dog’s odor to determine the best course of action. Here are some of the most common culprits:

Skin And Coat Issues

If your dog has skin allergies, infections, or other skin concerns, it can cause them to develop a strong odor. A dirty or oily coat can also add to a dog’s smell.

Gastrointestinal Problems

Digestive issues, such as smelly diarrhea in dogs, can cause a dog’s odor to become unpleasant.

Ear Infections

Dogs with ear infections can also have a strong odor emanating from their ears. Besides, ear infections are irritating and can make dogs’ ears itchy and smelly, causing your dog to shake its head or scratch its ears. This leads to a foul odor getting on their coat or skin.

“Ear infections are one of the most common reasons for a smelly dog. If your dog’s ears are itchy and have a strong odor, it’s important to get them checked by a vet.” — The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) 

Dental Issues

Bad oral hygiene or dental issues such as periodontal disease as well as plaque buildup and tartar can also cause bad breath.

Anal Gland Issues

Dogs have two small glands on either side of their anus that produce a scent they use for marking territory. Sometimes, these glands can become infected, thus creating a strong and unpleasant odor.

If you find your dog smelling exceptionally bad, it’s best to consult your veterinarian to determine whether any underlying health issues need to be addressed. In some cases, a simple change in diet or regular grooming routine may be enough to keep your dog smelling fresh and clean.

Solutions for Smelly Dogs

Once you’ve determined what’s causing your dog’s odor, you can move on to fixing it. Here are some solutions for smelly dogs:

Regular Baths

One of the easiest ways to keep dogs smelling fresh and clean is by giving them regular baths. Use a shampoo specifically designed for smelly dogs to help neutralize odors. Mild shampoos with ingredients like oatmeal can also help soothe irritated skin.

Dental Care

To combat bad breath in dogs, make sure they have regular dental cleanings. Dental chews are also effective at keeping dogs’ teeth clean and maintaining overall oral hygiene.

Ear Care

Cleaning your dog’s ears should be part of their regular grooming routine. Use a vet-approved cleaner, and your vet may even recommend ear drops or other medications if your dog is prone to ear infections.

Anal Gland Expression

Your vet can help you with anal gland expression to prevent impaction or infection. However, not all dogs require this, so consult your vet before taking any action.

Simple Measures to Prevent Your Dog From Getting Stinky

Prevention is key when it comes to keeping your dog smelling fresh. With just a few simple steps, you can not only help prevent any foul odors in your dog but also boost its overall health. 

Healthy Diet

Feeding your dog a high-quality, well-balanced diet is crucial for its overall health. It can promote healthy skin and coat, reduce the risk of various health issues, and can even help prevent diarrhea in dogs by improving gastrointestinal issues.

“Feeding your dog a high-quality, well-balanced diet can help prevent smelly diarrhea in dogs and promote healthy skin and coat.” The American Kennel Club (AKC) 

Make sure you feed your dog nutritious meals and stick to homemade treats, including fresh fruits and veggies like green beans, carrots, and dates. If you’re wondering, “can dogs eat dates” or “are green beans safe for dogs,” it’s best to consult your vet and do your research to maintain a healthy diet for your dog. 

Regular Grooming

Regular grooming, including brushing and trimming, is crucial for promoting good health and hygiene. It can also help prevent skin infections and reduce shedding, thus reducing any funky smells in your dog.

“Regular grooming is key for preventing smelly dogs. Brushing your dog’s coat can help remove loose fur and dirt, while trimming their nails can help prevent injuries and infections.” – The AKC 

Allergy Management

If your dog has allergies, managing them can help prevent skin infections and other health issues that can contribute to a smelly dog.

Shampoo for Smelly Dogs

While regular baths are necessary for keeping your dog smelling fresh, you also need to be careful about what kind of shampoo you’re using. Stick to mild, hypoallergenic shampoos with soothing ingredients like oatmeal and chamomile. Here are some of the best shampoo options for smelly dogs:

• Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Shampoo: Specifically designed for dogs with sensitive skin, it contains natural ingredients like oatmeal and aloe vera that help soothe irritated skin.
• Vet’s Best Hypoallergenic Shampoo: This shampoo is hypoallergenic and free of harsh chemicals, making it safe for dogs with allergies or sensitive skin.
• Burt’s Bees for Dogs Natural Shampoo: Made with natural ingredients like honey and chamomile, it helps soothe and moisturize dry skin.

Additional Tips for Dealing with Smelly Dogs

If you’ve tried everything and your dog still stinks, here are some more tips that can help:

1. Regularly wash bedding, toys, and other items that your dog uses to prevent odors from building up.

2. Consider using odor-neutralizing sprays or candles to help freshen up your home.

3. Schedule regular vet checkups to identify and treat any underlying health issues that may be contributing to your dog’s odor.

Conclusion

Dealing with a smelly dog can be a challenge, but it’s possible to keep your furry friend smelling fresh and clean with a few simple measures. Regular baths, a healthy diet, and the right grooming products can make all the difference in keeping your dog smelling great. If your dog’s odor is particularly bad, don’t hesitate to consult with your vet to identify and treat any underlying health issues.