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

Dachshund

You may know it as the ""Weiner Dog,"" but its actual breed name is Dachshund. There are 3 types of Dachshunds: long-haired, wired-haired and short-haired.

Best Dog ID Tags

Dog ID tags visibly display your contact info to make sure that, in the case your dog gets lost, they can be quickly returned to you.

Global Pet Expo: West Paw’s New Collar and Leash Line Helps Prevent

One of our new faves at Global Pet Expo 2018 is West Paw''s new collar and leash collection--perfect for less lunges on your daily walks.

J.M. Smucker Company Expands Voluntary Recall on Canned Cat Food

J.M. Smucker Company is expanding the recall on certain lots of 9Lives, EverPet, and Special Kitty canned cat food due to possible low levels of thiamine.

Beef and Rice Stir Fry Dog Food Recipe

When I want to eat healthy, I whip up a stir fry. After prep and cook time, it takes about 20 minutes, from counter to table. So that got me to thinking&hell…

Milan’s Runways Are All About Doing It in High Doggie Style

Haute couture for dogs? From cashmere knits to custom-tailored coats, Italy''s canine fashion is all about style and comfort.

Best Dog Bed Covers

Dog bed covers provide a protective barrier between your pet''s bed and dirt, hair or pee and prolong the usability of the bed itself.

CFHS Is Out To Prove That Real Men Love Cats

Which month are you? CGHS looking for real-life men and their cats for the 2016 Cats & Bros calendar Not since the Village People parodied gender typecasti…

Cavapoo

The low-shedding Cavapoo is a great companion dog whose small stature makes him a perfect fit for apartment dwellers, seniors, and singles, and families.

Giant Spitz

The Giant Spitz lives up to its name with his classic, spitz-like characteristics and his large size. These dogs were traditionally used for guarding.

Hockey Hounds Make a Power Play With PetSmart’s Maple Leafs Line

When the puck drops this season, what will your pup be wearing? Share your Leaf Nation pride with your dog with Petsmart''s exclusive Maple Leaf Line.

Connemara Pony

Ireland''s only native equine breed, it is believed that the Connemara Pony has a rich history that dates all the way back to the ancient Celts.

Ovariectomy: An Alternative Method Of Spaying

If you choose to have your dog spayed, there are actually a few different methods for spaying a dog. The ovariectomy is just one of the options available.

Best Drool-Worthy Doggy Dishware

Just because you''re eating on the floor, it doesn''t mean it shouldn''t be dignified. Here are our top picks of luxe doggy bowls for posh pooches.

Schweenie

The eager-to-please Schweenie is a fun combination of the feisty little Shih Tzu and the clever, often headstrong Dachshund.