Dog ownership can bring numerous benefits, such as companionship, security and joy. Taking long walks, tossing a ball, and enjoying relaxation with a pet are all pastimes many dog owners share. Just as important, though not always as fun, is a proper hygiene ritual. Keeping your dog's coat and skin clean will help to reduce that "doggy smell" so many people dislike; in addition, cleanliness is recommended by the ASPCA as the best way to effectively "deodorize" your favorite canine companion. Apart from proper cleaning, you can employ a few tricks and products to help reduce your pet's doggy stink.
Brush your dog thoroughly with a good dog brush. Brushing our your dog's fur not only gets rid of dead hair that may cause knots and matting, it helps loosen dirt particles that may be stuck to your dog's coat that may contribute to any unwelcome odors.
Keep your dog's ears clean. A buildup of earwax in your dog's ear can lead not only to bad odors, but ear infections as well. Keeping this area of your dog's body clean can help reduce the chances of a bad-smelling dog.
Establish a washing schedule. It may seem simple, but properly cleaning your dog on a regular basis can help neutralize some of the causes of doggy stink, like body sweat or dirty coats. The ASPCA recommends washing your dog at least once every three months; more if your dog spends extended time outdoors.
Incorporate a shampoo specifically designed for dogs into your dog-washing routine. Human shampoos can leave a dog's skin dry and flaky, which may also increase body odor. By using a shampoo specially designed for dogs, you can be sure that you are addressing the specific needs of your canine's coat and skin.
Employ a de-skunking solution to help neutralize bad odors. Sometimes dogs pick up bad odors from interactions with other animals or by rolling on the ground. Mix together 1 quart of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide with 1/4 cup baking soda and 1 teaspoon of mild dog shampoo; pour the solution over your dog. Allow the mixture to sit for about three minutes and then thoroughly rinse your dog's fur.
Dry your dog after bathing. Some types of bacteria are attracted to moisture, and wet fur on a living dog is a very hospitable habitat for bacteria to live and reproduce, contributing to dog smell. Dry your dog thoroughly with a soft absorbent towel when she gets wet to help reduce the chances of bacteria taking up home on your dog's coat.
Mix together one part water, one part lanolin hand cream and one part anti-bacterial mouthwash in a spray bottle to create a simple and safe home solution that will help prevent odor in between baths. Shake the mixture vigorously until well-mixed and then spray it onto your dog's coat; rub it in. The anti-bacterial mouthwash will help to eliminate any bacteria that did find its way onto and into your dog's fur, while the lanolin will help soften and protect the individual hairs of the coat.
Feed your dog healthy meals. Remember that just as the type of food humans consume affects our body's biological functions -- like sweat production and gland excrement -- so does a dog's diet affect its functions. Feeding your dog a healthy, well-balanced diet, as prescribed by his veterinarian, will help to keep your dog healthy inside and out.
Add a drop of all-natural liquid chlorophyll to your dog's drinking water. Liquid chlorophyll is a natural deodorizer and can help to reduce odors that are produced during digestion -- including bowel production -- in the bodies of both humans and animals.
Purchase a doggie perfume. Numerous colognes are made specifically for dogs that you can find at your local pet store or even online through doggie boutiques. Check with your vet or groomer for any specific recommendations; always follow the manufacturer's directions to avoid any dermal irritations.
Visit your vet. The bad smell emanating from your dog may be related to an internal issue; perhaps an anal gland is clogged or something else is within your dog that's causing the odor. Having your dog checked out by a vet may help to discover a possible health problem that needs medical attention.
Tips
The ASPCA recommends the following schedule for dog brushing: Smooth, short-coated pooches should be brushed once a week.
Pups with short, dense fur that may be more prone to matting need a good brushing several times per week.
If your dog has a long, luxurious coat, it may require additional attention to prevent tangles, so brush every day and trim the hair around the hocks and feet.
Warnings
Consult with a licensed veterinarian or dog groomer before purchasing or using any items that promise to reduce your dog's odor, and be mindful of any irritations caused by the product. Dermal allergies occur in canines and require proper treatment.
Warnings
Consult with a licensed veterinarian or dog groomer before purchasing or using any items that promise to reduce your dog's odor, and be mindful of any irritations caused by the product. Dermal allergies occur in canines and require proper treatment.
Tips
The ASPCA recommends the following schedule for dog brushing: Smooth, short-coated pooches should be brushed once a week.
Pups with short, dense fur that may be more prone to matting need a good brushing several times per week.
If your dog has a long, luxurious coat, it may require additional attention to prevent tangles, so brush every day and trim the hair around the hocks and feet.
Items You Will Need
- Dog brush
- Dog shampoo
- 3 percent hydrogen peroxide, 1 quart
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1 teaspoon dog shampoo
- Soft, absorbent towel
- Water
- Lanolin hand cream
- Anti-bacterial mouthwash
- Spray bottle
- All-natural chlorophyll
- Doggie perfume or cologne
References
Resources
Tips
- The ASPCA recommends the following schedule for dog brushing: Smooth, short-coated pooches should be brushed once a week.
- Pups with short, dense fur that may be more prone to matting need a good brushing several times per week.
- If your dog has a long, luxurious coat, it may require additional attention to prevent tangles, so brush every day and trim the hair around the hocks and feet.
Warnings
- Consult with a licensed veterinarian or dog groomer before purchasing or using any items that promise to reduce your dog's odor, and be mindful of any irritations caused by the product. Dermal allergies occur in canines and require proper treatment.
Writer Bio
A graduate of the University of Maryland, College Park, Laura Swisher has worked in the field of journalistic and news editorial services for more than two decades and spends most of her time editing press/media releases for various federal government branches and offices, as well as reviewing live event transcriptions for release through wire services and national media outlets.