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

Central Asian Shepherd Dog

The Central Asian Shepherd Dog is a large and powerfully built dog. Its legs are well-boned and muscular. Its back is broad and powerful, and head large.

Home Remedies for Cat Vomiting

It''s not pretty, but it may be something you can treat at home. Here are some ideas on some home remedies for cat vomiting.

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.

Major Mitchell’s Cockatoo

Major Mitchell''s Cockatoo is a unique bird with a lovely temperament and some of the most beautiful coloration in the parrot world.

What You Should Know About Feline Pancreatitis

A serious condition that needs immediate attention from a veterinarian, know what to look for in case your cat suffers from pancreatitis.

Braque Francais

Originally bred for hunting, the Braque Francais has easily made the transition to the ideal family pet. This pooch is one of the least dominant dog breeds.

Hackney Pony

In addition to being beautiful, the Hackney Pony also has an appealing personality. They have great stamina and enjoy being active.

File This Under Ideas We Love: Pet Food Bank Opens In Toronto

You know you really love your pet when you’re willing to give up your meal just so your dog has something to eat. But why choose, asked Cara Heitmann?…

Ask The Hairy Dogfathers: Showing Off My Pooch Pride

It''s the most wonderful time of the year - Gay Pride! The Hairy Dogfathers have some advice when it comes to bringing your dog along to Pride celebrations.

Thuringer Rabbit

The Thuringer Rabbit is a uniquely beautiful breed that features a coat that is buff to deep yellow ochre with blue-black ticking.

Why Playtime Is So Important For Your Cat

Reasons why you need to schedule a play date with your cat every day A lot of people think that cats are independent and don’t really require a lot of…

Best Dog Calming Collars

Dog calming collars rely on the potency of pheromones, herbs, or essential oils to provide much-needed relief to anxious dogs.

Kale and Apple Dog Treat Recipe

Wouldn''t it be great if you dog loved leafy greens as much as he loves treats? We combined the two with our Kale and Apple Dog Treat Recipe.

DIY Pineapple Dog Halloween Costume

This year''s hottest fruit - the pineapple! This Halloween, turn your pooch into a tropical treat with a Halloween costume you can make yourself.

What is Hypothyroidism in Dogs?

Let''s talk facts. In this article you will learn the basics about what hypothyroidism in dogs is, how it affects dogs, and what can be done to treat it.