Is your dog a bit funky? A guide to Keep Your Dog Smelling Fresh and Clean

As much as we adore our pets, sometimes they don’t smell quite as fresh as we’d like. Unpleasant odours in dogs can be more than just a nuisance; they may signal underlying health issues that require attention. In this guide, we’ll walk through common sources of unpleasant odours, from ears and teeth to skin and anal glands, how to manage them at home, and when it’s time to seek professional help.

Smelly Ears:

One of the most frequent reasons for a dog’s smelly ears is the buildup of wax and debris, which can lead to infections. These infections often result in a strong odour, accompanied by itching or discomfort. Other causes of odorous ears include ear mites, allergies, or foreign objects lodged in the ear canal.

How to help at home: Gently clean your dog’s ears using a vet-recommended ear cleaner and cotton balls. Avoid inserting anything too deep into the ear canal to prevent injury. If the smell continues or your dog is shaking its head or scratching excessively, it’s best to consult a vet. They can check for infections or other ear-related conditions and provide the appropriate treatment.

Smelly Teeth:

Bad breath, or halitosis, is a common issue for many dogs and often stems from poor dental hygiene. Plaque and tartar buildup, gum disease, or even infected teeth can all result in a foul-smelling mouth. Dental issues can also lead to more severe health problems if left untreated.

How to help at home: Establish a consistent dental care routine that includes brushing your dog’s teeth daily with a vet-approved toothpaste and providing dental chews or toys that can help clean their teeth. If the bad breath persists despite regular care, it may indicate more serious dental issues, such as gum disease or an infected tooth. In these cases, a vet’s intervention is required, and they may recommend a professional dental cleaning under anaesthesia to address the problem.

Smelly Skin:

A smelly coat or skin could point to several different issues. Yeast or bacterial infections, skin allergies, and even hormonal imbalances like hypothyroidism can cause your dog’s skin to produce an unpleasant odour. This might be accompanied by signs like excessive scratching, redness, or a greasy coat.

How to help at home: Regular baths with a hypoallergenic, gentle shampoo can help keep your dog’s coat fresh. Be sure to dry them thoroughly after each bath, as moisture left on the skin can worsen the issue. In addition, feeding your dog a well-balanced diet rich in essential fatty acids can promote skin health. If skin problems continue, consult your vet for a proper diagnosis. Medicated shampoos or oral medications may be required to manage infections or other skin conditions causing the odour.

Smelly Anal Glands:

Anal gland problems are another common source of odour in dogs. These glands, located on either side of your dog’s anus, secrete a fishy-smelling fluid during bowel movements. When the glands become impacted or infected, they can produce a much stronger smell, along with other symptoms such as scooting (dragging their bottom along the floor), licking or biting at their rear end, or swelling near the anus.

How to help at home: While some dogs express their anal glands naturally, others may require manual expression by a groomer or vet. If your dog frequently shows signs of anal gland discomfort, such as scooting or excessive licking, it’s essential to seek professional advice. Your vet can manually express the glands or treat any infections to prevent future complications.

When to Contact the Vet

If your dog’s odour persists despite your best efforts, or if you notice any accompanying symptoms like discomfort, swelling, or behavioural changes, it’s time to consult with your vet. Odours that don’t go away could indicate infections or other health conditions that require professional treatment.

If you have any concerns about your dog's odour or overall health, don't hesitate to consult our friendly vet team for guidance and support.