Five Reasons Your Dog May Stink

[vc_empty_space height=”25px”]Reason 1: A Yeast Infection 

Yeast overgrowth is a widespread cause of smelly dogs. Yeast has a very distinct musty, pungent odor, often compared to moldy bread or cheese popcorn. Yeast infections most commonly occur in the ear canals or on dogs’ paws. Some people call a yeast infection on their dog’s paws “Frito feet” because the smell is similar to corn chips. Signs of yeast overgrowth include stinky paws, a musty smell, excessive scratching, itchy paws, and butt scooting.  

If your dog has a yeast infection, it’s important to assess your dog’s diet. Ultra-processed, starch-heavy foods (like dry kibble) feed bad bacteria, letting kibble thrive in your pet’s body. Topical remedies – such as medicated shampoos and sprays – can alleviate some symptoms, but the yeast will likely return without a diet change.Reason 2: Gas Attacks

All dogs pass gas, but if their gas is excessive or putrid, there might be more to the story. Getting your dog’s gas under control isn’t always as simple as keeping them out of the trash. An unhealthy diet could be the cause of your dog’s stinky gas. We can help you find the best diet for your dog’s health. 

Reason 3: Bad Breath

Puppy breath can be cute, but bad breath can be pungent. Bad breath is typically the result of a build-up of bacteria in your pup’s mouth. In addition, poor dental health, tartar build-up, infections, or periodontal disease can cause bad breath.

Dog owners often find keeping up with their dog’s dental health a hassle. However, that doesn’t have to be the case. Check out our blog post on different ways to keep your dog’s dental hygiene in check. Reason 4: Anal Glands

Dealing with stinky anal glands isn’t for the faint of heart. Anal glands are located on the sides of a dog’s rectum. Normal, healthy anal glands should not emit odor, but if you notice a fishy smell, your dog, like many, might have problems with its anal glands. If anal glands aren’t secreting naturally, you may notice leaking, a pungent odor, butt scooting, or your dog in pain. Smelly anal glands could be a sign your dog needs to have them expressed, which will require a visit to your vet. 

Reason 5: Lack of Grooming

Consistently brushing your dog between baths gets rid of dirt, dead skin, and anything caught in their hair helps decrease unpleasant smells between baths. A thorough brushing will go a long way in keeping your dog stink-free. 

Grooming wipes and deodorizing sprays can also help your pet to smell fresh in between baths. Another simple trick to keeping your dog clean is to keep their bedding and toys clean. It keeps both your dog and house smelling fresh.