Thursday, January 26, 2012

Smelly Dog - How to Get Rid of Dog Odor

Does your dog have an unpleasant smell that tends to linger? Does he smell wet even when he is dry? Have you bathed your smelly dog with canine shampoo, only to notice the stink getting worse?

Numerous things can give your dog a bad odor: skin problems, his coat, and various health conditions. If he is simply dirty, a good shampoo and dog grooming may eliminate the smell. But the multitude of canine shampoos will not solve an odor problem if it stems from dog skin issues or other health problems.

Smelly Dog Causes

Dogs love to roll around in the dirt, and they relish foul odors. Dirt, dog feces, and dead animals contribute to the stink of a smelly dog. A good bath may take care of the problem.

Dog smells sometimes result from flatulence, the passing of gas through the rectum. If this is a temporary condition, the smell will leave on its own. If impacted anal glands are the cause, a veterinarian must express the glands to eliminate the odor.

Bad breath often stems from gum infections and other dental diseases. A veterinarian can clean your dog’s teeth and recommend medication to address the problem. Diabetes and kidney disease also cause bad breath, and certain skin conditions contribute to body odor.

Smelly Dog Cures

Changing your dog’s diet is one of the best ways to rid him of body odor. Organic and natural brands that contain barley grass, wheat grass, and chlorophyll are good food choices. Veterinary supplements may also improve your dog’s health and smell.

Proper care of his skin and coat can address the odor issue, too. The natural yeast on dog skin can multiply, causing odor and infections. A natural dog shampoo kills the yeast and ends the smell.

Regular dog grooming will keep your pet looking clean and smelling fresh. Brush, comb, and “back-comb” his fur to remove the thick undercoat, which can trap moisture and smells. This is especially important during the shedding season. Use warm water and a mild shampoo to bathe your dog on a regular basis. To protect his natural oils, do not bathe him daily.

Not all dogs stink, and most dogs do not smell bad all the time. But some dogs are naturally smellier than others. A healthy diet, a bath schedule, and regular dog grooming can keep the stink under control. If infection, tooth decay, or serious health issues are causing your dog’s odor, seek medical attention from a qualified veterinarian.