Top 5 Reasons Why Your Dog May Have a Bad Odour

March 08, 2023
We Know Pets

If your pup has an unpleasant smell, it could be from any number of things, ranging from poor hygiene to dietary issues. In this guide, we'll answer the burning question "why does my dog smell" and explore five common causes for pungent pet odours.

Poor Dental Hygiene in Your Dog

One common reason for your pup's bad smell is poor dental hygiene. Inadequate brushing can lead to the growth of bacteria and plaque in your pet’s mouth, which can cause them to have bad breath and consequently a musky smell.

To keep your dog’s mouth healthy, it’s important to regularly brush their teeth with canine toothpaste and take them in for professional teeth cleanings if necessary.

TotaPet PlaqueAway is a seaweed based dental health supplement that you sprinkle over your dog's meals each day. This is very effective at removing plaque, keeping gums healthy and maintaining fresh breath in your dog.

Skin Infection or Allergy-Related Issues.

Another potential source of bad odor in your pet is skin infection or allergy-related issues. Dogs that have an allergic reaction to something can develop an unpleasant odor due to the inflammation in their skin. Skin infections are also associated with a bad smell and require treatment from a vet. To avoid any skin issues, make sure to regularly groom your dog and keep their fur clean.

Parasites on Your Dog's Skin.

If the bad odour from your pup persists, it could be due to parasites living on or near their skin. Parasites such as fleas, mites, and ticks are some of the most common external parasites found in dogs and they can cause a number of unpleasant symptoms - including an odor. Regularly check for any signs of parasites in your pet's fur and keep up with their monthly flea treatments. If you notice an issue, take them to the vet right away.

Not Feeding Your Dog the Correct Diet Can Cause bad Odours

Feeding your dog a poor diet can contribute to them having an unpleasant odour. A poor diet can lead to digestive issues, which can cause bad breath, flatulence, and an overall unpleasant smell. In addition, certain foods, such as those high in sulfur, can cause a distinctive odor that may be noticeable on your dog's breath and skin.

Furthermore, a poor diet can also contribute to skin and coat problems, such as dandruff, itching, and excessive shedding. These issues can lead to a buildup of oils and bacteria on your dog's skin, which can create an unpleasant smell.

It's important to provide your dog with a balanced and nutritious diet to ensure they stay healthy and happy. Feed your dog a balanced diet that is preservative free and nutritionally complete such as Man's Best Dog Food. The foods in this range of Man's Best Premium Dog Food is an Australian made and grain-free. The Ocean Fish recipe contains omega 3 oils that are beneficial to a dogs skin, heart function and coat.

Can a Probiotic Supplement Help with Doggy Odours?

Yes, a probiotic supplement can potentially help with doggy odors. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live in the gut and can help promote a healthy digestive system. They can also help prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria that can cause digestive issues and bad breath.

Probiotic supplements can also help improve your dog's overall health, which can have a positive impact on their skin and coat. A healthy gut can lead to a healthier immune system, which can help prevent skin infections and other conditions that can contribute to unpleasant odours.

However, it's important to note that not all probiotic supplements are created equal, and the effectiveness of a probiotic supplement can vary depending on the specific strain of bacteria used and the quality of the product. It is best to use only a probiotic supplement that is suitable for dogs.

In addition to probiotics, maintaining good hygiene practices, such as regular grooming, brushing your dog's teeth, and cleaning their ears, can also help prevent unpleasant odours.

Excessive Grooming Occurring at Home.

Another common cause of a foul odor on your pup can occur due to excessive grooming. If your pup is spending too much time licking and cleaning their coat, there’s a chance that the saliva could mix with their natural oils and cause an unpleasant smell. Try to limit the amount they are licking themselves each day, and if it persists, schedule an appointment with the vet to check for any problems.

Regularly Bathing Your Dog in the Wrong Shampoo or Conditioners

If you are washing your pup with the wrong shampoo or conditioner, this could be causing them to have a stronger odour. Look for products specifically

Fido's Gentle & Mild Shampoo for Dogs and Puppies 250 ml

designed for dogs, as these will not contain any harsh chemicals that could potentially irritate them and make their coats smell bad. Never use human shampoo or conditioning products on any pet. These can cause superficial burning on the skin.

Look for dog shampoos that are soap free, and contain natural ingredients such as baking soda. Baking Soda is an effective deodorising agent with the ability to neutralise rather than mask doggy odours.