How To Avoid The Smell Of Wet Dog?

This odor can be avoided with a series of home remedies related to hygiene and care for the animal’s coat. Sometimes, the stink, depending on its intensity and duration, can reveal a health problem. Next, find out how to avoid it.

Dogs like to spend time outdoors and may come home with an unpleasant smell. One of the concerns in avoiding the smell of wet dog is the possibility that it exists because of an infection.

The causes of bad odor are bacteria

In the fur of our animals, as well as in our skin and organism, live millions of bacteria and fungi.  We can say that these bacteria are in a “latency period” while the animal’s fur is dry.

When our dogs get wet, the water molecules cause the displacement of small volatile compounds that cause the familiar odor. We shouldn’t worry when noticing this pain so characteristic, because these micro-organisms accompany the dog throughout its life in a natural way.

The odor produced is also caused, in part, by the natural sebum that coats the hair, which keeps it waterproof and naturally shiny. Other areas where the smell is more intense are around the ears, feet and anus, where a series of secretory glands are located.

How to avoid wet dog smell: habits and tips

As we have already seen, this characteristic smell is something produced in a natural way and it is very difficult to make it disappear completely. However, a number of cleaning habits can be effective in preventing the smell of wet dogs in our home and our clothes.

• Clean your dog’s paws.  This way you will minimize the odor of accumulated moisture and keep your home dry, free of dirt and germs. Use a cloth or towel that is close to the entrance to the house to prevent the dog from getting everything dirty.

• Put your pet directly in the shower.  If you are a small breed, just take the dog in your arms to the bathroom. If it’s a big dog, clean its paws before entering the house. It is recommended to use a specific shampoo to prevent the dog from having skin problems.
• Brush the dog often.  This is another way to maintain the hygiene of the animal’s skin and fur. We should not give our dog excessive baths, and brushing is a good way to eliminate residues of dirt and germs.

Use a natural disinfectant that is good for the dog’s skin and, at the same time, eliminates bad smells, is apple cider vinegar. When we mix approximately one cup of vinegar with our dog’s shampoo, the smell will diminish and it will take longer to appear again.

Your pet’s scent, an indicator of your health

Not all the smells our dog has are natural. If we notice a more intense odor than usual or more persistent, together with a withdrawn behavior, we may be facing an infection or disease.

The most common cases of odor-related illnesses are:

• Otitis.  As we said, there are a series of glands around our dogs’ ears that are responsible for part of their natural odor. It is necessary to keep in mind that an ear infection can generate new secretions that intensify this odor, and it is important to maintain good hygiene in the region.
• Oral infection caused by tartar or some food in poor condition.  Dogs’ mouths also produce a strong, characteristic odor. An acetone or ammonia smell can, however, be an indicator of an oral infection that requires veterinary treatment.
• Any unusual secretions in the glands near the eyes, mouth, nose and reproductive organs have direct consequences on the smell of our animal. Owner care can prevent infections and illnesses, keeping the dog clean and healthy.