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

Bissell CrossWave Pet Pro Multi-Surface Wet Dry Vac

Let’s face it, pets get messy and whether they’re tracking in dirt and debris from the yard or wet mud after a rainy-day walk… your floors…

Plum Headed Parakeet

Plum Headed parakeet is energetic, playful and generally peaceful. That''s why this is one of the most popular pet parrots!

Pufferfish – Saltwater

Pufferfish are a large family of saltwater fish. It can fill its elastic stomach with water until it expands to a large, almost globe-like shape.

Blossom Headed Parakeet

With their unique appearance, friendly nature and charming behavior, the Blossom Headed Parakeet is well-loved with a good reason.

Belgian Warmblood Horse

The Belgian Warmblood Horse is one of the best jumping breeds in the world. This horse breed is suited to riders with a moderate level of experience.

DoggoRamps Keeps Your Pet Safe From Back Injuries

As DoggoRamps is a fully adjustable dog ramp, it makes for a smooth ""climb"" to your bed, that won''t put any additional stress on your pet''s back.

Scoodle

The Scoodle is a cross between a purebred Poodle and Scottish Terrier. This is a breed that is known for its energy and playfulness,

What Are the Dangers of Water Hemlock to Dogs?

When you''re out for a walk by the water, keep your dog away from this wild flower. Water hemlock is one of the most toxic plants to dogs.

Sweetlips

Sweetlips are a species of fish belonging to the grunt family. They are characterized by their big, luscious lips and come in a variety of colorations.

The Dog Scout’s Guide To Dog First Aid Kits

Always be prepared! Having Dog First Aid Kits stashed where you need them most will ensure you can treat your dog for injuries if he ever gets hurt.

The Importance of Environmental Enrichment for Cats

Felines benefit from some environmental enrichment in their lives. Just a few added touches to your living spaces keep your cat happy and well behaved.

Take A Hike: Adventures In Dog Hiking Part 1

A-hiking we will go! Oscar and I take on the challenge of dog hiking Oscar and I decided we needed a new challenge this summer. We’re not the most athl…

Shih Apso

A designer dog, the loving Shih Apso brings together the feisty Shih Tzu and the aloof little Lhasa Apso for a fun companion dog.

Facts And Myths About Black Cats

November 17 is National Black Cat Appreciation Day! There''s a lot of fiction surrounding these inky-colored kitties - let''s talk about what''s true or false.

Global Pet Expo 2017: Outward Hound’s Plethora of Pet Products

Get out there and play with your dog (or cat!). Outward Hound''s 2017 line of pet products blows us away - we can''t pick just one to focus on.