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

Pinny Poo

The feisty Pinny Poo brings together the protective nature of the Miniature Pinscher and the playful personality of the Miniature Poodle.

Dehydrated Sweet Potato Dog Treat Recipe

I love me some sweet potatoes! And you know who else loves sweet potatoes – your dog! Not only that, but they also love jerky. This Dehydrated Sweet Potato D…

Most Likely To… Take The World’s Most Epic Yearbook Photo

Diane Wilkinson might just be the coolest principal on the face of the planet, after she and a student take ’80s-inspired yearbook photo with their pet…

Foxface Rabbitfish

The foxface rabbitfish is a popular species of saltwater fish belonging to the rabbitfish family. When stressed, they can change to a mottled brown color.

Ask The Hairy Dogfathers: Help – My Dog Has Cabin Fever!

Is your dog going stir crazy from being kept indoors during the cold winter months? The Hairy Dogfathers have a few ideas on how to keep sane until spring ar…

Best Laundry Detergent for Pet Hair

these convenient laundry detergents for pet hair, stains, and odors are a potent weapon in the arsenal of every pet owner.

Rescue Cat Returns Favor, Saves Family From Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

A quiet rescued family cat found his voice at the most important time, warning his family that their house was filling with deadly carbon monoxide.

Smålandsstövare

Also known as the Smaland Hound, the Smlandsstvare is a Swedish scenthound and hunting dog, and the smallest of the Swedish hounds.

More Dog Food Recalls Due To Listeria and Salmonella

Another group of dog food recalls has gone out, warning dog parents about the potential for salmonella and listeria--is your dog''s brand on the list?

Treat Your Pampered Pooches To A Relaxing Day At The Dog Spa

A dog spa is more than your average boarding kennel - it is a place where your dog can relax in comfort while you are on vacation. Grooming and much more!

Best Cat Litter Boxes

Our comprehensive list features the best cat litter boxes in different styles, materials, and sizes- there is a match for every kitty.

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…

Tails From A Pet Sitter: Walking In A Winter Blunderland

An excited dog and slippery conditions don’t mix. Here’s how to safely walk your four-legged friend in the snow. This time of year can be dishear…

What Causes Diarrhea in Cats?

Diarrhea in cats can signal a host of health or diet issues. To ensure your kitty gets the help she needs, here''s what you need to know about diarrhea in cats.

Designer Dog Clothes From Global Pet Expo

We were on cuteness overload at this year''s Global Pet Expo. There were so many adorable designer dog clothes to choose from. Here are a few of our picks.