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

Top 17 St. Patrick’s Day Gifts For Dogs

Looking to shower your pup with the love o'' the Irish? Look no further than these top 17 St. Patrick''s Day gifts for dogs!

Lake Tanganyika Cichlids

There are more than 250 species of Lake Tanganyika cichlids that have been identified, in a wide variety of colors and patterns.

Pros And Cons Of Retractable Dog Leashes

Are you for or against retractable dog leashes? I''m not a huge fan, but I know pet parents who won''t leave home without them. Here are some pro and cons.

Best Dental Treats for Cats

With thousands of happy pawrents and their pampered kitties vouching for these dental treats, yours is just to pick one with your pet''s fave flavor.

Ask the Animal Communicator: My Indoor Cat Wants To Go Outside

From the outside looking in, the life of your pampered indoor cat might look so sublime. But from the inside looking out, you may find yourself wondering i…

Wirehaired Vizsla

The Wirehaired Vizsla is known for its energy, stamina, and its reddish coloration, and was developed in Hungary for its pointing and retrieving skills.

Giddy Up! Unlikely Friendship Has Cat at the Reins

It''s no secret that horseback riding is a passion for many. But for a cat in Devon, England, it''s just another way to hang with his best friend!

Liam J. Perk Foundation: Dog Safety Awareness And Education For Famili

After an unthinkable tragedy, the Perk family transformed their sorrow into a foundation that educates parents and kids about living with dogs After darkness…

Healthy Hound Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipe

We love our dogs and we want the best of everything for them. This heart-felt sentiment is the inspiration behind the Healthy Hound Grain-Free Dog Treat Reci…

Malaysian “I Want To Touch A Dog” Event A Surprise Success

Muslim men, women and children flocked to canine-friendly event to learn more about dogs In our culture, dogs have long been welcomed into our homes and cons…

Blind Service Dog’s Smile Brightens The Lives Of Others

Born without sight, Smiley serves up a smile and hope to those who need it most. Bright and perky therapy dogs are a common sight at many nursing homes. They…

Lionfish

Lionfish are a species of fish belonging to the scorpionfish family. They are known for their bright colorations, flowing fins and venomous tentacles.

What Causes Diarrhea in Cats?

Diarrhea in cats can signal a host of health or diet issues. To ensure your kitty gets the help she needs, here''s what you need to know about diarrhea in cats.

Halo Hosts NYC Pop Up Shop to “Do Good” for Pets

We were excited to hear that Halo, Purely for Pets, a natural pet food company co-owned by Ellen DeGeneres, is hosting a ""Pop Up Shop.""

Two-Faced Kitty Pulls an About-Face With Copycat Face-ade!

Now here''s a look you don''t see everyday. This adorable little two-faced cat has scientists wondering if she is a true ''Chimera.''