Having a smelly pup can be embarrassing and frustrating. As dog owners, we know that it's not pleasant to walk around with a stinky dog. 

But the good news is there are ways you can help stop your pup from stinking up the room! 

In this blog post, we'll cover some of the main causes for why your dog may emit an unpleasant smell as well as solutions you can implement to start putting those bad smells in their place once and for all. 

Common reasons why dogs smell bad

Have you ever asked yourself, "Why does my dog smell so bad?" Well, there are actually a few common reasons why your furry friend might have an unpleasant odour.

For starters, a dog's skin can produce a certain dog body odor, especially in areas where there are a lot of skin folds.

One of the most noticeable smells is the "wet dog" smell, which is caused by a build up of bacteria on the fur after a bath or swim.

A dog's breath can contribute to their unpleasant odour. If you notice an unusually bad smell, it could be a sign of dental issues or other health problems.

Lastly, make sure to take a whiff of your dog's ears. If they're not cleaned regularly they may smell funky, and if left unattended to could lead to a yeast or bacterial infection.

How can I prevent my dog from smelling bad?

Dogs can often develop unpleasant odours that can quickly make your cuddle sessions less enjoyable, there's nothing worse than when your dog stinks.

Luckily, there are a few things you can do to prevent your dog from smelling bad. First and foremost, give your dog a bath using a dog-specific shampoo. It's important to avoid using human shampoo, as it can irritate your dog's skin.

It's important to remember not to overdo it with the bathing/showering. Giving your dog too many baths can actually strip their skin of natural oils and cause dryness and irritation.

Additionally, try to brush your dog's coat regularly to help remove any dirt or debris that may be causing odours.

And if your dog needs a quick freshening up in between baths, our Floofs Pet Wipes can come in handy for a quick clean.

With a little bit of extra care, your dog can smell as fresh as a daisy every day!

What to do if your dog smells bad

If you have noticed an unusual odour coming from your dog, don't worry, there are a few things you can do.

Firstly, check their breath - bad breath can be a sign of dental problems.

Secondly, check their ears - ear infections can also cause an offensive odour.

Thirdly, check their fur - if they have rolled in something unpleasant or caught something on their coat, it could be lingering on the dog's fur.

A deep shampoo with a dog-appropriate shampoo can work wonders, but if the problem persists, consider taking them to a professional groomer.

If you struggle to find any obvious source of the smell, or the smell comes back quickly/your dog begins to smell worse, there may be an underlying health issue.

What are some medical conditions that can cause a dog to have a bad smell?

If your dog is emitting an unpleasant odour that is lingering, it could be a potential sign of an underlying medical condition.

Ear infections, yeast infections, a urinary tract infection, tartar build-up, and infections in general can all lead to a bad smell in dogs.

While it might be a bit concerning, the good news is that these conditions can all be treated with the help of your trusted veterinarian.

So if you notice your pup is giving off an unpleasant odour, a visit to the vet is in order to nip the problem in the bud.

Ear Infections

While infected ears are relatively common in dogs, they can also cause some not-so-pleasant odours.

Ear infections are often caused by yeast infection/overgrowth in the inner ear, which can lead to irritation, inflammation, and a distinct smell.

If you notice your furry friend shaking their head or digging at their ears, it's important to take action and see a vet immediately.

Not only can an untreated ear infection be uncomfortable for our pups, but it can also cause lasting damage to their ears. Healthy dog ears are a key way of reducing your dog's scent.

Anal Gland Issues

Few things can be more unpleasant than when dogs stink, and the anal glands issues are a common culprit.

The anal glands are located on either side of your pup's anus and are responsible for secreting a pungent liquid that dogs use to mark their territory or communicate with other canines.

Occasionally, the anal glands can become blocked or infected, causing a foul odour that can send even the most devoted dog lover running for fresh air. If this happens you need to visit your vet immediately.

To prevent the glands from becoming blocked, try feeding your pup fibrous foods, which are not only good for your dog's digestive system but also helps to firm up their poops & can help keep the glands clear.

Additionally, design your dog's diet to make sure their stools are firm, as this can also help promote healthy gland function. This can also help with any unwanted gas attacks!

Dental Disease

Tartar buildup, tooth decay, gum disease, and bacteria can all contribute to bad odours, but that's not all.

These dental issues can lead to infection and negatively affect your dog's internal organs if left untreated.

So, it's important to keep up with your dog's dental hygiene and schedule regular cleanings with your vet.

Not only will it keep their breath smelling fresh, but it can also prevent potential health issues down the line.

Skin Disease

Bacterial skin infections and irritations can cause bad smells to linger on your pup's fur. This is especially true for breeds with lots of skin folds, like the Shar Pei.

But why exactly does this happen?

Well, our pup's skin produces oils and other substances that can get trapped in their fur and on their skin. When there are skin problems present, those oils can mix with bacteria and create an unpleasant smell.

The good news is that these issues are usually treatable with the help of a veterinarian, and preventable with the use of products like our Floofs Pet Wipes.

So if your pup's smell is beyond what you'd consider typical dog odors, it's worth a trip to the vet to rule out any skin problems.

Treatment for Dog Odor

Grooming your pup regularly and giving them regular baths can go a long way in keeping them smelling clean.

When you don't have time for a full bath, pet wipes can be a quick and simple solution.

But, if the odour persists, it's important to seek immediate treatment from a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical issues that could be causing the smell.

Remember, a little bit of cleanliness and a watchful eye can go a long way in keeping your pup and your home smelling fresh.

Can I use dog shampoo to help mask my dogs scent?

While grooming and regular baths are key to maintaining their hygiene, you may be wondering if dog shampoo can help mask their scent even further.

The short answer is yes, you can use pet-safe shampoo to keep your pooch smelling good.

However, it's important not to over-bathe them, as this can dry out their skin and cause other health issues.

Will CBD oil for dogs help a dog that's scared of baths?

Many dogs get scared and anxious about water, but there might be a solution: CBD oil.

Research shows that CBD oil can have calming effects on dogs, potentially making bath time less stressful for them.

It's important to take it slow and not force your dog into the tub. Start by introducing them to the bath area slowly and let them sniff around.

Then, try giving them a small dose of CBD oil before the bath to see if it helps. Having some of their favourite treats on hand works as a pleasant distraction for them too.

Remember, patience is key when it comes to helping your dog overcome their fears.

What fragrance is best for getting rid of dog smell in the home?

When it comes to fragrances, one that is known to work well is lavender. Not only does it smell lovely, but it also has natural deodorizing properties that can help neutralize that dog smell.

You can use lavender in a variety of ways, such as essential oil diffusers, candles, or even sachets tucked away in different areas of your home.

With its calming effects and fresh scent, lavender can make your home smell great and give you peace of mind knowing your houseguests are not greeted with the scent of your furry friend.