Why Do Dogs Stink When Wet?

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

There’s always a distinctive smell coming from your pooch after he gets wet. Have you ever wondered why dogs stink when they get wet?

You’ve just come in from the rain after having walked your now sopping-wet pooch. You enter the house, remove your boots, and stand back as he rigorously shakes all that wet away, and begins to wag his tail. While he’s a happy boy, you’re thinking “whoa, what on earth is that funky smell?” Well, that’s the smell of wet dog and until he has been thoroughly dried, he’s going to spread that dank scent throughout the house and onto any soft surfaces he cares to rub himself against.

Related:Best Dog Wipes

So, what causes that distinctive “wet dog” odor? It’s actually as bad as you’d think. It’s a stinky combo of microorganisms such as yeasts and bacteria that naturally occur deep down, on your dog’s skin and just settle in for the long haul. And, like most natural organism, they excrete volatile compounds (AKA poop). Just add a little water and what you have is the answer to why wet dogs stink. Yes, that odor is in fact a cocktail of reconstituted feces from those millions of microorganisms.

Now that you know what causes the smell, how do you prevent it from infiltrating your home, your car, and clothes? I mean, dogs will continue to jump in lakes, pools, get caught in rainstorms, run under hoses, and have baths, right?

There are a few tricks you can use to banish doggy smell, such as:

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

You May Like

Dry Vs. Wet Dog Foods: Which Is The Right Choice? Part 2

Are you thinking about feeding your dog wet food? In the second part of her series, Sabine Contreras, Canine Care and Nutrition Consultant, takes a look at t…

Bo Swims Away As This Week’s Wet Wednesday Weekly Winner

Some dogs just can’t get enough of the pool… and when you throw a tennis ball into the mix, fuggedaboutit! And Bo, the mini Aussie, is just one…

Khao Manee

Even when hearing impaired (an issue in white cats), the Khao Manee is a playful, active cat that loves attention. An excellent addition to a family.

2018 Global Pet Expo Day 3: That’s A Wrap!

2018 Global Pet Expo has come to an end, but the things we''ve seen and learned here will keep us motivated and excited for years to come.

Schnorgi

Sweet, friendly, and playful, the Schnorgi will bring a lot of joy to your life. This hybrid is a mix of Welsh Corgi and Miniature Schnauzer and will display a combination of traits of the parental breeds.

Adoptable Dog Of The Week – Emmy

Please meet Emmy, our Adoptable Dog of the Week from Adoptapet.com. Emmy is a female adult Shepherd mix from Baton Rouge, LA. She is already spayed, housetra…

Best Cat Pheromone Sprays

If your cat suffers from stress or anxiety, it can result in unwanted behavior. Cat pheromone sprays could be the answer you''ve been looking for.?

Why You Should Make Your Cat Work for Her Food

Your cat has everything she needs, served right to her - what a life. But making your cat work for her food is actually a good thing!

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Strong work ethic and being faithful to a fault are only two of the many incredible qualities found in the wonderful Greater Swiss Mountain Dog.

Adoptable Dog Of The Week – Shanghai

You’ve got to love Shanghai, an adorable mop of fur who happens to be our Adoptable Dog of the Week. Shanghai is a 1.5-year-old male Shih Tzu and Bruss…

Moluccan Cockatoo

Moluccan Cockatoo, or the Salmon Crested Cockatoo, is one of the most intelligent and curious pet parrots.This goofy bird will be your lifelong friend!

Frozen Coconut Pineapple Dog Treat Recipe

Let''s get tropical! Our Frozen Coconut Pineapple Dog Treat Recipe will transport your pooch''s taste buds to an island paradise.

Barbet

The Barbet is a medium-sized breed of French water dog, known for its dense curly coat. A generally friendly and fun-loving breed, a great family pet.

Crimson Bellied Conure

With their friendly, affectionate and silly personality, the Crimson Bellied Conure is considered by many to be a perfect pet parrot.

Beyond Catnip: Alternatives Your Kitty Might Like

Catnip doesn''t work on all felines. If you''re looking for an alternative to the popular kitty herb, why not give these products a try?