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

Dalmador

The Dalmador is a hybrid of the easy-going Labrador Retriever and the feisty Dalmatian. This is a friendly, trusting breed that is loyal to his family.

Harlequin Rabbit

The Harlequin Rabbit breed is often called the clown of rabbits due to their unique colors and markings. They are outgoing creatures who love to hop around.

Florida White Rabbit

The Florida White rabbit is a wonderful pet for practically any stage of a person''s life.They are docile, laid-back animals who like to take it easy.

Malchi

Feisty, small, and cute, the Malchi will win you over with their friendly and fun personality. This dog breed is a mix between a Chihuahua and a Maltese.

Ask The Hairy Dogfathers: Dog Don’t Got Game

What do you do when your dog doesn''t share your passion for the sport of agility? Instead of being benched, the Hairy Dogfathers have some advice to share.

Rottle

The playful Rottle combines the affectionate Rottweiler with the intelligent Poodle. An even-tempered dog that is affectionate with kids and loyal.

Bathroom Break: How To Toilet Train Your Cat

Don’t let your dreams of a litter box-free home get flushed – here’s how to toilet train your cat! If you are absolutely tired of dealing w…

Top 10 Workouts For Your Dog’s Brain

While a daily walk is essential to give your dog his fill of physical exercise, mental exercise is just as important. This is especially true for highly inte…

New Zealand Red Rabbit

Best known for their vivid ginger coat and great personality, the New Zealand Red Rabbit is ideal for first time owners and families with children.

Giant Schnauzer

The Giant Schnauzer is really a fairly compact dog for its size and, given enough exercise, can actually be calm companion and wonderful family pet.

Yellow Tailed Black Cockatoo

The calm and docile behavior of the Yellow Tailed Black Cockatoo is very different from the energetic behavior that we''re used to from other cockatoos.

Bo Shih

The perky little Bo Shih brings together the feisty spirit of the Shih Tzu and the often-stubborn personality of the Boston Terrier.

11 Celebrities Who Decided to Adopt, Not Shop

When it comes to setting an example, there are times when celebrities shine bright. Here are 11 Hollywood Stars who adopted dogs in need.

Ram Cichlids

Ram Cichlids (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi) are a species of freshwater cichlid that can be found in slow-moving waters throughout the Orinoco River basin.

Best Cow Hooves for Dogs

Cow hooves for dogs are a fantastic natural chew treat that protects your pet''s oral health and gives them tons of fun to boot.