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

Olde English Bulldogge

The Olde English Bulldogge is a cross between a purebred English Bulldog, American Bulldog, American Pit Bull Terrier, and Bullmastiff.

Adoptable Dog of the Week- Momma

Our Adoptable Dog of the Week is Momma, a 5 years old Chihuahua and Corgi mix from Warwick, Rhode Island. She is spayed, vaccinated, and housetrained.

Top 10 Best Cats for Mousing

Got a mouse in the house? Forget the mouse trap - a cat is your best pest buster. Here are the top 10 best cats for mousing.

Scottish Terrier

Like many breeds, you''ll find that the Scottish Terrier''s relatively peaceful personality makes for a perfect pet. The breed is playful and energetic.

Rose Ringed Parakeet

Rose Ringed Parakeet is a real spark of positive energy and will brighten up every home with their cute tricks, cuddly surprises, and lovable traits.

Grammy-Winning Violinist Shows Cool Cats Love Classical Music [Video]

A Grammy-winning violinist''s consideration of strays along an animated street has music fans all over the world seeing the street kitties in a new light.

Should You Be Adding Dog Supplements To Your Pooch’s Diet?

Dog supplements can provide your dog with essential nutrients he doesn''t get enough of in his everyday diet.and can treat lingering health issues.

Adoptable Dog Of The Week – Carlton

With a look like that, you can’t help but wonder what Carlton, our Adoptable Dog of the Week, is thinking about. Whatever it is, we don’t care &n…

Up At The Cottage Cheese Chicken And Rice Dog Food Recipe

I love that spring is finally here. That means summer is right around the corner and it’ll soon be time to head up to the cottage for a little R&R. Chi…

Adoptable Dog Of The Week – Owen

Don’t you just want to hug Owen, our Adoptable Dog of the Week? This furry fella is a 3-year-old Great Pyrenees mix from Portland, ME. Owen’s Sto…

Best Holiday Gifts For Pets

Holiday shopping is a rush, but don''t forget your pet! If you need a little inspiration, feel free to steal a few ideas from our holiday pet gifts list.

Feline Vaccinations: Which Ones Are Really Necessary?

What vaccinations does your cat really need? Pet vaccinations have helped reduce the incidence of a variety of serious and potentially fatal diseases. Feline…

Bichirs

Bichirs are a species of freshwater fish. They are characterized by their long, eel-like bodies and unique dorsal finlets. Capable of breathing surface air.

Selkirk Rex

The Selkirk Rex has a patient, loving, and tolerant personality.They are docile and good natured, and enjoy nothing more than cuddling with you.

Australian Bulldog

The Australian Bulldog bears a striking resemblance to the Bulldog, but it has clearly been influenced by other breeds like the Bullmastiff and the Boxer.