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

Why Do Cats Like Boxes?

Why do cats like boxes? We''re about to let the cat out of the box! Here are a few reasons why cats love to hide out in these fortresses of solitude.

Peek-A-Pom

The sweet Peek-A-Pom is also known as Peekapom and Pominese. This designer toy dog breed was developed by crossing the Pekingese and Pomeranian.

Adoptable Dog Of The Week – Emmy

Please meet Emmy, our Adoptable Dog of the Week from Adoptapet.com. Emmy is a female adult Shepherd mix from Baton Rouge, LA. She is already spayed, housetra…

Munchkin

A Munchkin is a fun-loving cat that scurries about on its short legs chasing toys and happily running around the house. Confident and intelligent cats.

How to Set Up the Perfect Environment for Foster Kittens

You''ve decided to open your home to kittens in need. Make sure they feel welcome by creating the perfect environment for them to thrive.

Paradise Fish

Paradise fish are a colorful species of freshwater fish belonging to the gourami family. They were the first tropical fish to be imported 150 years ago.

Best Dog Beds

Dog beds give your pet a place of their own where they can nap and snooze to their heart''s content. Here are the 10 best dog beds on the market!

Well Balanced Pet Mineral Analysis Test Kit Review

I find out if Oscar is getting the vitamins and minerals he needs to live a long, healthy life As a concerned pet parent, I want the best for Oscar, especial…

Platies

Platies are fairly small fish, growing no more than 3 inches long, and they are very peaceful and non-aggressive. These fish are usually drab in color.

Adoptable Dog Of The Week – Maury

Get ready to fall in love with Maury, our Adoptable Dog of the Week from Adoptapet.com. Maury is an adult male Basset Hound from Albuquerque, NM. He is neute…

Treeing Tennessee Brindle

If you are looking for an intelligent dog with a unique appearance and advanced hunting skills, the Treeing Tennessee Brindle may be the right dog for you.

10 Best Outdoor Toys for Dogs

We’ve rounded up the most entertaining, most durable outdoor toys to help you narrow down your choice – and make sure you and your pet are making the most out of sunny days this year.

Adoptable Dog Of The Week – Forrest

Hey Forrest, you can stop running now – you’re our Adoptable Dog of the Week! Forrest is an adult male Labrador Retriever mix from Glen Morgan, W…

How Can I Remove Plaque From My Dog's Teeth?

The best way to prevent plaque on a dog''s teeth is to brush them, but what about existing buildup? How can you remove plaque from your dog’s teeth at home – or is it something that has to be done professionally? Here’s what you need to know about plaque and tartar and how best to remove them.

Muffin’s Halo Is A Fashionable Guide For Blind Dogs

This adorable accessory lets blind dogs lead a normal life and make a fashion statement at the same time Some accessories aren’t purely for fashion and…