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

Lhasa Apso

Calm and subdued, the Lhasa Apso is a wonderful house pet as it doesn''t require a lot of exercise. This breed is curious about everything around them.

Are Board and Train Programs Right for My Dog?

Dog training takes a lot of time and patience. But some people don''t have the time, and that''s where board and train programs come in.

Carob And Pumpkin Dog Cake Recipe

I feel really bad because I’m not going to Trick or Treat with Oscar for Halloween (I’ll be hanging with other pet bloggers at Barkworld). To mak…

Polish Greyhound

The Polish Greyhound is a member of the sighthound group; it''s easy to see from his long legs and lithe body. Also known as Polish Sighthound.

After 11 Long Years, a Cat That Was Presumed Dead Returns Home

If a pet story can be considered a real life miracle, it’s the one about Toby, a family cat that - it would seem - lived a life of great adventure.

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.

Understanding Asthma In Cats

This human affliction can also leave your cat short of breath - and it''s a serious health risk. here''s what you need to know about asthma in cats.

Upside Down Dog Of The Week – Axle

Seeing that it’s Tuesday, it’s time to announce our Upside Down Dog of the Week from Upsidedowndogs.com. This week’s winner is Axle, a 6-ye…

Keagle

The Keagle is a cross between a purebred Beagle and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. This super cute pooch will win you over in no time at all.

Best Rawhide Chews for Dogs With Sensitive Stomachs

Dogs love chewing on rawhide, but sometimes it can upset their tummies. Here are the best rawhide chews for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Wee-Chon

The Wee-Chon is a cross between a purebred Bichon Frise and West Highland White Terrier. An energetic, affectionate, and playful little dog.

Best Dog Anxiety Vests

Dog anxiety vests can relax your pet in triggering situations by relying on the soothing power of applied pressure. Read on to learn more!

5 Insider Secrets Only Foster Dog Parents Know

Shelters and rescues are in need of foster parents for homeless pets. There are some lessons that can only be learned by someone who''s already been there.

Percheron Horse

The Percheron Horse is a large draft breed that exhibits more energy than other draft horses. They are known for their pleasing personality.

Top 10 Kid Friendly Dogs

To find the perfect dog for your family, you need to know which breeds will be a better fit for your kids. Here''s our top 10 list of kid friendly dogs.