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

Rotterman

The Rotterman is a cross between a purebred Rottweiler and Doberman Pinscher. These dogs can be trained to work with police and with the military.

Arthur the Adventure Racing Stray Now a Published Author

The fascinating story behind Arthur, a stray dog who latched onto a Swedish racing team as they were completing a dangerous journey... and never let go.

Jusani Culture Online Shop Gives Back To Pet Shelters

With proceeds going toward animal shelters, you’ll feel good about your purchases We love stores and products that are designed to make the lives of do…

DentaDish Dog Bowl Stops Bloat and Brushes Teeth

Some dogs won''t let you near their teeth with a brush - what''s a pet parent to do? The new DentaDish may help keep your dog''s clean and healthy.

Boarding Your Dog For The First Time

You''re going away and you''re worried about boarding your dog for the first time. Here are a few stress-free tips to make the process go smoother.

Best Harnesses For Morkies

Your Morkie has a delicate neck. It''s important that the harness you use to keep her safe is comfy, so here our best 10 harnesses for Morkies.

Kickstarter’s PAWD Is The Prettiest Crate You’ll Ever See

This re-envisioned dog crate for pampered pooches is stylish, functional and cozy, and its sleek design ensures it fits right into any modern home.

Keeshdoodle

The loving Keeshdoodle is a mix of the playful Poodle and the please-pleasing Keeshond. This breed is a wonderful family dog who loves kids.

Kickstarter’s Moxie is First Ever Smartphone for Pets

The gadget is to be worn on a harness and enables your pooch to call your phone just by barking. The market for wearable pet tech is booming- many pet parent…

Red-Eared Slider Turtle

The Red-Eared Slider Turtle is one of the most popular and commonly kept pet turtles. Even thought they are personable, these turtles are easily startled.

Lilac Rabbit

The Lilac Rabbit has short fur that is soft to the touch. Depending on the light, the Lilac rabbit can appear more purple or more gray.

Kakariki

Kakariki has all the traits you''d want in a pet parrot- fun, friendly and smart. They''re also known as the Red-crowned parakeet.

Treat Your Pampered Pooches To A Relaxing Day At The Dog Spa

A dog spa is more than your average boarding kennel - it is a place where your dog can relax in comfort while you are on vacation. Grooming and much more!

What is Pet Selection Counseling?

If you need guidance when adding a furry family member to your ranks, it may be a good idea to consider pet selection counseling.

Mastidoodle

The sweet-natured Mastidoodle brings together the loyal Poodle and the gentle Mastiff for an easygoing family dog that loves kids.