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

New Book Featuring Little Kids and Their Big Dogs Cutest Thing Ever

A Russian photographer has a new book that features fabulous photos of the cutest little kids and their most adorable, furry and large canine buddies!

Bacon and Cheese Dog Muffin Recipe

Two irresistible ingredients in one incredible muffin. Make our Bacon and Cheese Dog Muffin Recipe and become the most popular human at the dog park!

Beagi

The Beagi is the delightful result of breeding a Beagle with a Corgi. In addition to good looks, these dogs have a wonderful personality.

Chin-wa

What a cutie! The clever Chin-wa brings the sassy personality of the Chihuahua together with the friendly nature of the Japanese Chin.

Rover Boutique Offers Designer Dog Clothes for Refined Pooches

Some dogs like glitz and bling, other prefer to don a more refined, classic style. And for posh pups that love designer dog clothes, theres Rover Boutique.

Shorkie

With the attitude of a giant breed dog, the Shorkie has no clue that he is a small guy. Playful and energetic, the Shorkie is great with kids and adults.

3 Sobering Reasons Why Dog Insurance Is Important

In 2014, it’s estimated that we spent about $14.2 billion at the vet – so why aren’t we investing in dog insurance? You do everything you c…

Three Cheers For Chateau La Paws Wine!

Newly re-launched wine brand pairs dog lovers with a vintage that helps rescue shelters and dogs in need Whether you’re toasting to your pooch’s…

5 Cat-ravagant Perks of an Outdoor Catio

You want your indoor cat to enjoy the benefits of the outdoors without the danger. The solution - an outdoor catio that protects your kitty!

Banter Bulldogge

The Banter Bulldogge is a cross between a purebred Boxer and a Bulldog. They will get along well with kids, and they will remain loyal.

Cotonese

Cotonese was developed by crossing two small dogs of similar traits, the lovely Maltese and the sweet Coton de Tulear. Find all about this desinger dog!

Adoptable Dog Of The Week – Lil Bit

Meet Lil Bit, our Adoptable Dog of the Week from Adoptapet.com. Lil Bit is an adult female French Bulldog and Pug Mix from St Paul, MN. She is already spayed…

Bow Wow! Beef Dog Stew Recipe

You gotta love a beef stew that has everything that’s good for your dog built in. There’s meat for protein, vegetables for vitamins, and gravy fo…

Adoptable Dog of the Week – Daisy D

Well howdy-do, Miss Daisy D! This adorable flower is our Adoptable Dog of the Week. Daisy D hails is an adult Papillon from San Antonio, Texas.

Cat Grass and Safe Alternatives

Cat grass, yard grass… the moment decent weather hits their inner Holstein kicks in and they’re chowing down on the green stuff every chance they get.