Sometimes, regular grooming isn’t enough to keep a dog smelling sweet. Here are some common causes of disgusting dog smells – along with tips for getting your much-loved family member back to their best.
Whiffy wind
Some dogs have more sensitive stomachs than others, and if one blast from your dog is enough to clear the room, yours could be one of them. There are specific diets available for dogs with digestive issues. Another potential cause is dogs scoffing their food too fast – if this sounds like your dog, try a slow feeding bowl or puzzle feeder. If you’re concerned, your dog gets diarrhoea or constipated or starts vomiting, take them to the vet in case there’s an underlying health issue.
Ear infections
These can be common in dogs, especially if they are regularly exposed to bacteria in water from swimming. Keep the folds of floppy ears clean with a damp cloth or piece of cotton wool, but don’t touch anywhere that’s not immediately accessible in case you damage their ear canal. If you notice any discharge around the ear, your dog needs to see the vet.
Skin allergies
Allergies in dogs can show up as itchy and inflamed skin. As your dog scratches it can cause further irritation, which leads to increased amounts of oils and water being produced to soothe the sore spot. This build-up of dead skin, bacteria and oil can create a rather potent pong. Ask your vet to pin down the underlying cause, so you can fix the problem permanently.