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

Lagotto Romagnolo

Don''t let their curly, clown-like appearance fool you. The Lagotto Romagnolo has a rich history behind it and is one of Italy''s oldest known dog breeds.

What to Know About Swim Safety for Dogs

Does your doggy like to paddle in the water? Don''t jump into the deep end until you read up on these important swim safety tips for dogs.

How To Groom A Dog

Here are the basics you''ll need to know on how to groom a dog. Feel free to print it out and keep it on the fridge for quick reference.

Could Music Ease Your Dog’s Separation Anxiety?

Music to soothe the anxious beast… for when your dog is home alone. Research has already shown that classical music is calming for dogs. Now, a Grammy…

Today’s Cats Are Fat Cats Compared To Viking-Era Felines

A new study published in the Danish Journal of Archaeology shows that since the Viking era, cats have continued to grow to be about 16 percent bigger than th…

Study: French Bulldogs Prone To Health Problems

A new study released by researchers in the United Kingdom suggests that the French Bulldog is vulnerable to a host of health conditions and disorders, and th…

Golden Boxer

The loving Golden Boxer is a wonderful family pet that brings together the gentle Golden Retriever and the clown-like personality of the Boxer.

Basque Shepherd Dog

If you are looking for a family-friendly breed that is unlike any other dog you''ve ever seen, consider the Basque Shepherd Dog.

What Your Cat Really Thinks of You

Don’t you wish you could read your cat’s mind? Since you can’t, this article provides insight as to what your cat thinks of you Scientists…

The Buzz About How Mosquitoes Can Sabotage Your Dog’s Health

Mosquitoes are pests – not just to humans, but to dogs as well. But did your know that a bite from this insect can cause more than just an itchy annoya…

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.

Yorkie-Poo

Active and energetic, the Yorkie-Poo is truly a clown in disguise. He will cheer up the saddest person and light up the room with his funny, little antics

Is Dog Unitard the Solution for Heavy Shedders?

When it comes to fashion trends, what goes out comes back in, and the unitard is no exception. This one''s designed to bring shedding problems to a minimum.

Drever

The Drever is a talented hunting dog known for his keen nose and strong work ethic. Even though this dog is known for hunting, he''s amenable to family life.

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!