The holidays are over, and things have settled back down into your Winter routine for the new year. Some things weren’t tended to, like bathing your dog. So, wondering if your dog smells? Probably. So let’s dive into why your dog smells and what you can do about it.
But Why Does Your Dog Smell… So Badly, or So Much Like… Dog?
Most dogs have that “dog smell” to them, especially when the come in out of the rain. However, some dogs tend to stink more than others, mine included. This can be due to variety of reasons, some of which may require a veterinarian’s attention. Here are some of the causes of dog odors and the best treatments to combat these odor problems. One thing you can do is utilize
- We know there may be snow on the ground in some areas of Minnesota, but if you’re living in a Southern state and reading this, this applies to you (Don’t worry Minnesota, we’re only a few months away from warmer weather). While dogs like to roll in the dirt, some also like to roll around in grass, and on discarded or dead things in the yard. It’s simply a way to make them “more interesting” as my vet put it. If your dog is prone to doing this, you’ll need a bathing routine (or place to give your dog a bath) that will help in keeping their odor off of your furniture and carpets.
- Certain dog breeds tend to have naturally oily coats. This extra oil on the dog’s skin can become rancid and cause bad odors. If this describes your dog, they need to be regularly groomed and bathed. It could develop into irritating skin conditions. Also using a good anti-bacterial shampoo specifically formulated for dogs is your best solution. If the skin condition does not clear up within a reasonable amount of time or if it appears to worsen, be sure to take your dog to the vet.
- Dogs with droopy ears tend to develop ear infections quite frequently, although any dog breed can end up with this painful condition. If your dog smells bad even with regular grooming, take the time to check its ears. Look for redness and irritation. You will also notice that your dog will also shake its head often and probably try to scratch to relieve the itchiness. There are several ear infection solutions on the market that can help alleviate this problem.
- Check with your vet to see if your dog has impacted or infected anal glands. These sacs, located in the 3 and 9 o’clock positions, are filled with a fluid that is normally released when a dog has a bowel movement. If you look carefully, you will see that your dog’s anal area has become somewhat swollen and the “back end” smells really bad. Take your dog immediately to a veterinarian to have these glands expressed. Be aware that once your dog has had this problem it tends to reoccur, so keep an eye on this. If necessary, you can have the anal glands surgically removed.
- This is more Summer/Fall, but getting sprayed by a skunk is one smell recognized immediately. One of the best methods we’ve read about is to mix 1 quart 3% Hydrogen Peroxide, 1/4 cup Baking Soda, and 2 tablespoons dish detergent in a large bowl. Smear on your dog like you do with shampoo. Wait 15 – 20 minutes and rinse. Might have to repeat, depending on the intensity.
TIP: Be careful not to get either solution in your pet’s eyes.
So, keeping your dog clean, keeping an eye on their activities when possible and vet visits will surely help keep your dog clean and smelling great. Be sure to check our newsletter for coupons for dog baths at the Apple Valley Dog Day Getaway facility!
Do you have any tips, tricks or suggestions about keeping your dog clean and not so smelly? Leave a comment below, we’d love to hear your suggestions and stories!
