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

Shih-Poo

The Shih-Poo is a fun-loving and energetic little fellow. Although he doesn''t need loads of exercise, he is spunky when he wants to play.

Zuke’s Grain Free Gift Pack Giveaway

After a couple of weeks off, we’re back with another contest. And let us tell you, it’s bigger than ever. This time around, you could win a Zuke&…

Best Tick Sprays

Tick sprays help keep your pet protected from a range of nasty bloodsuckers and dangerous diseases they transmit through their bite.

Oriental Bicolor

Oriental Bicolor kitties are known for their outgoing, social, and affectionate personality. They are active cats that need to have plenty of interaction.

Dalmadoodle

Mixing the looks and personality traits of the Dalmatian and the Poodle, the Dalmadoodle is an intelligent, loyal, and wonderful companion.

Gang Gang Cockatoo

These lively, smart, and goofy parrots are incredible charmers and bring a lot of fun wherever they are. Meet the unique-looking Gang Gang Cockatoo!

Why Do Cats Hiss?

We instinctively back away when we hear a cat hissing. But why do cats hiss and how should you react when your feline makes this sound?

Gen Y Dogma: 4 Ways Getting A Dog Changes Your Friendships

When you get a dog, you may notice how other relationships in your life change. Christina Peden talks about how her friendships changed when she brought her…

Decoding the Mysterious Habits of Cats

What''s going through your cat''s head when she does crazy kitty stuff? Let''s take a closer look at the weird things your cat does and why she does it.

Best Dog Exercise Pens

Dog exercise pens help keep energetic dogs safe both indoors and outdoors. Easy to store and practical, these dog exercise pens are great to have around!

Westiepoo

The hybrid Westiepoo is a happy, family oriented dog that loves to be around others and gets along famously with household pets and older kids.

DIY Natural Home Remedies For Dogs

If your dog suffers from a mild upset stomach, dry skin, or other problems that aren''t serious enough to involve a vet, try these home remedies for dogs.

Cock A Tzu

The sweet-natured Cock A Tzu is a fun-loving combination of the outgoing Cocker Spaniel and the playful yet stubborn little Shih Tzu.

DIY Dog Treat Filled Ornaments

I''m not the craftiest person out there, but I found that these DIY Dog Treat Filled Ornaments were fun and easy. The kids can get on this DIY dog craft too.

Dog Insurance Dos and Don’ts

Are you confused about dog insurance? We''ve put together a handy list of dos and don''ts you need to know about before you sign on the dotted line.