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

Top 10 Holiday Gift Guide For Dogs 2014

I’m the first to admit that I tend to go a little overboard when it comes to buying Oscar gifts for the holiday season. I can’t help myself &n…

Dorgi

The Dorgi is a cross between a purebred Corgi and Dachshund. This crossbreed is intelligent, and it is usually easy to train.

Adoptable Dog of the Week – Anderson Floofer

Our Adoptable Dog of the Week is Mr. Anderson Floofer, a 2.5 years old Australian Shepherd and Pitbull mix from Phoenix, Arizona.

American Pugabull

The bold American Pugabull brings together the friendly nature of the Pug and the protective characteristics of the American Bulldog.

5 Warning Signs That You Need Dog Insurance

Dogs can get into all kinds of issues. We''ve put together 5 warning signs you should watch out for that will let you know if you need dog insurance.

Anglerfish

Anglerfish are a family of predatory fish consisting of over 200 separate species. They are characterized by their rod-like growths called illicium.

Blue Picardy Spaniel

The Blue Picardy Spaniel has the long legs of a setter and the responsiveness of a spaniel, making it the ultimate hunting companion.

How to Train Your Cat to Sit in a Stroller

There are many benefits to taking your cat outside in a stroller. Your pet can enjoy the sunshine, take in the fresh air and interesting smells, and see some wildlife—and you won’t have to worry about her running off.

Arlo Go’s Wireless Capabilities Lets You Monitor Pets Anywhere, Insi

Meet the Arlo Go, the world''s first and only 100% wire-free, weatherproof, LTE mobile HD pet monitor that you can take with you when travelling.

Pugshire

As a designer dog breed, the Pugshire comes from two purebred parents- in his case, it''s the Yorkshire Terrier and the Pug.

The Dog Scout’s Guide To Dog First Aid Kits

Always be prepared! Having Dog First Aid Kits stashed where you need them most will ensure you can treat your dog for injuries if he ever gets hurt.

Western Painted Turtle

The Western Painted Turtle is appropriate for beginner turtle keepers. these attractive, colorful turtles are a joy to watch as they swim and bask.

Best Enzyme Cleaner

An enzyme cleaner is a must-have for any pet parent- these powerful cleaners can remove even the toughest stains and remove any lingering odor for good.

Keeshdoodle

The loving Keeshdoodle is a mix of the playful Poodle and the please-pleasing Keeshond. This breed is a wonderful family dog who loves kids.

Cats Run Japanese IT Offices Like The Bosses They Are

If you thought it was cool to have ''dog-friendly'' offices, a small IT firm in Japan has one-upped that concept -- an office where nine cats live and roam.