Bad odor problem in dogs is quite common. Every dog has a unique odor, but in some disease states, this odor can worsen. Sometimes dog parents get used to this smell and may not notice the underlying health problem. In this article, we will talk about the reasons that can cause bad odor in dogs and how to deal with this problem.
Causes of Bad Smell in Dogs
Bad Breath in Dogs
Pay attention to changes in your dog’s breathing. Bad breath in dogs can have many causes. These; dental and gingival diseases, infections, and some systemic diseases can be given as examples. Bad breath can also indicate kidney disease or diabetes. The breath of a dog with kidney failure may smell like urine or have a metallic odor. Bad breath with advanced diabetes is also quite bad and different. These dogs produce ketones that create a distinctive odor in their breath. This smell can be compared to the smell of acetone.
Dental Problems
The number one cause of bad breath in dogs, like humans, is the formation of plaque and tartar on their teeth. Some small breeds are particularly prone to dental problems such as gum disease. Another problem specific to some breeds is Gingival Hyperplasia, an overgrowth of the gums that can harbor small pieces of food and produce a rotten odor.
Keeping your dog’s teeth clean at home is the first step to solving this problem, but ultimately your pet may need a dental cleaning from a veterinarian.
Gas Extraction
Gas buildup and excessive flatulence are also common problems in dogs. Although many diseases can be found under this problem, sometimes it is only related to nutrition. If your veterinarian cannot find an underlying problem, he or she may intervene, such as changing your dog’s diet and giving probiotics. The best diet should be chosen to meet your dog’s individual needs. Working with your veterinarian to switch to a different diet, whether grain-free or fish-based, can often resolve the issue.
If your dog’s gas is strong enough to make a room smell, he probably ate something he shouldn’t have. If you also have diarrhea and vomiting, you should definitely take your dog to the veterinarian.
Skin Problems
Seasonal or food allergies can cause inflammation of the skin, which can cause excessive oil secretion from certain glands, which can produce a foul odor, and even cause skin infections if left untreated. Malnutrition can also contribute to your dog’s allergies and can also be the cause of other problems, including yeast infections that can cause bad odors.
If you have a Spaniel, Pekingese, Pug, Bulldog, or our Shar-Pei, you need to pay attention to your pet’s skin folds. These dogs are prone to skinfold dermatitis, a stinky skin disorder. You should clean your pet’s skin folds regularly to prevent infection and bad odor. The normal barriers to the skin are long-term moisture, allergies, hormonal disorders, etc. Any dog can get a foul-smelling skin infection.
Ear Infections
There are many types of bacteria and yeasts that can cause ear infections in dogs. A healthy ear usually has a good defense mechanism to fight bacteria, but if your dog has allergies or hormonal imbalances, yeast and bacteria can increase significantly, causing a horrible odor. Breeds such as Basset Hounds, Golden Retrievers, and Springer Spaniels are prone to ear infections.
Dogs with long, drooping ears are prone to ear problems that often go along with allergies. Apart from that, dogs with allergies are also prone to ear infections. In this case, the underlying allergy should be treated as well as the treatment of the ears.
Anal Sacks
Anal sacs, also known as anal glands, are located on either side of the animal’s anus. The walls of the sacs are lined with cloths and the sacs are filled with a foul-smelling substance. Normally, the dog secretes some of it when he poops.
Anal sacs are one of the most common causes of bad odor in dogs. All canine companions have two small olfactory sacs on their bottoms that act as marking glands. When these sacs swell or flow, a very bad odor emerges. In diseases of these sacs, dogs feel pain and constantly have a foul back. Another sign of your dog having problems with his anal glands is “sliding” or dragging his bottom on the floor. If your dog exhibits this type of behavior, you should make an appointment with your veterinarian.
Wet Dog Smell
Have you ever wondered why your dog smells right after a bath? Microorganisms such as yeast and bacteria live quietly in your dog’s fur, and there is little odor as long as the fur remains dry. When your dog takes a bath or goes for a swim, the water causes the release of stinky compounds.
What To Do About All Dog Smells?
What To Do About All Dog Smells?
- A dog’s dental care should be taken early to avoid preventable problems: This may include annual dental cleaning, brushing your dog’s teeth at home, and even using some canine chews to help reduce tartar buildup. In advanced cases, your dog may need a serious dental cleaning at the veterinary clinic.
- Keep the folds in your dog’s skin and ears clean and dry: Check their ears periodically and make sure to dry them after swimming or bathing.
- Feed your dog a healthy diet: If you suspect your dog’s diet may be the culprit, try a diet with different ingredients. Consult your veterinarian for recommendations.
- Bathe your dog regularly: This is an obvious (but often neglected) remedy that gets rid of most every day and even not-so-ordinary odors from dogs.
- If dog odor persists, consult your veterinarian as some medical conditions can produce strange odors. Fruity or sweet-smelling breath can indicate diabetes, while kidney disease or bladder infection can cause a different type of bad breath.
