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

Pineranian

The friendly, intelligent, and sweet Pineranian combines the best traits of its parental breeds, the fierce Miniature Pinscher and the cute Pomeranian.

Elegant Parrot

One of the most prominent members of the Australian Grass parakeet family, the Elegant Parrot is a charming little bird with a big personality.

SuperZoo 2018: Dogtra Launches a Brand New Ball Launcher

Check out Dogtra''s new ball trainer and launcher--the first ever to be dual-functioning for training professional work dogs.

English Cocker Spaniel

The English Cocker Spaniel makes a great house pet. This breed is hardy and sturdy, and you''ll soon find that it''s happiest when it is by your side.

Diatomaceous Earth for Cats: A Natural Flea Treatment

If you prefer to go au natural when it comes to flea treatments, you may want to consider using diatomaceous earth for cats.

Pom-Chi

The Pom-Chi is a sweet and affectionate little dog that bonds strong and fast with his family. He is loyal and has no concept that he is so tiny.

Boerboel

A strong and impressive dog, the Boerboel is protective and loyal to his family. The Boerboel can be an awesome guard dog as well as a loving companion.

Boarding Your Dog For The First Time

You''re going away and you''re worried about boarding your dog for the first time. Here are a few stress-free tips to make the process go smoother.

Brussels Griffon

Ideal for apartment dwellers, the Brussels Griffon is spunky, playful, yet stubborn and mischievous. This dog is also good with other pets and children.

Cats and Coffee: The CatWise Cat Café Tour

Have a seat, grab a coffee and get ready to talk cats with cat behaviorist Pam Johnson-Bennett. The CatWise Cat Cafe Tour is coming to a city near you!

Devonshire Rex

The Devonshire Rex is one of the most fun-loving of all cats. Loyal and devoted to its humans, you are owned by the Devon, not the other way around.

Chimation

The Chimation brings the sassy personality of the Chihuahua together with the energy of the Dalmatian. This dog thrives on human companionship.

What Are Snuffle Mats for Dogs?

Have your heard of snuffle mats for dogs? They''re a great way for dogs to forage for their food, sniff around and slow down meal time.

Chorkie

A Chorkie is a mix of Yorkshire Terrier and Chihuahua They are one of the cutest breeds of designer dogs available to the modern dog owner.

The Best Gifts For Pet Lovers

Wrap them up or keep ''em for yourself! Here are the jolly picks that made it onto my holiday list this year (hint, hint!).