How to Reduce Unpleasant Dog Odors

Purchase dog shampoo. For dogs that have rolled in foul-smelling environments, haven’t been bathed in a while, or appear dirty, bathing is the first and most effective step to tackle the odor. Opt for a specialized odor-neutralizing shampoo rather than one with artificial fragrances.

• You can also use conditioner, depending on your dog’s coat type.
• If your dog has skin issues, such as fungal infections, consult a veterinarian to find a suitable medicated shampoo.

Wet your dog’s entire body. Start by pouring warm water (not too hot) from the head down to the tail.

• Ensure your dog is thoroughly wet before applying shampoo.

Shampoo your dog. Apply a small amount of shampoo to your hands. Begin lathering from the neck down to the tip of the tail.

• Massage the shampoo around the ears, legs, chest, entire coat, and other body parts.
• Be careful to avoid getting shampoo in your dog’s eyes or ears.

Rinse off the shampoo. Use warm water to thoroughly rinse the shampoo from your dog’s fur. Avoid directing water into their eyes, ears, or nose.

If using conditioner, repeat the process similar to shampooing.

Let your dog shake off the water. Step back and allow your dog to shake off as much water as possible on their own.

Dry your dog as soon as possible. Use a towel to dry your dog thoroughly. Some dogs will allow you to use a hair dryer on a low heat setting to dry their fur.

Clean your dog's ears. Dirty ears are a primary source of bad odor in dogs. Clean the ears when you notice dirt inside. However, excessive cleaning can cause irritation.

Brush your dog's fur daily. Brushing helps remove dirt and debris that accumulate and cause bad odors.

Brush your dog's teeth. Dirty teeth can lead to bad breath. To improve health and reduce odor, care for your dog's teeth daily and consistently.

Avoid using perfume on your dog. Refrain from spraying perfumes, deodorants, or scented household products on your dog. These may mask odors temporarily but won't address the root cause. Additionally, such products may be unsafe, worsen the smell, or even harm your dog.

Evaluate your dog's diet. Unhealthy or unnatural foods can cause bad odors in dogs. Pay attention to what your dog eats and check the ingredients on food packaging. Some commercial foods contain cheap, bloating-inducing ingredients like grains or soy. Even healthy diets can lead to digestive issues, as dogs may have allergies or sensitivities to certain foods or treats.

Switch your dog's food. Replace low-quality, nutrient-poor food with high-quality, natural options. Many cheap foods contain indigestible fillers that cause bad odors, dull coats, bloating, and bad breath. High-quality natural brands are available at reputable pet stores or online. You can also prepare homemade meals, but consult your vet for balanced recipes. Transition gradually by mixing new food with the old over 3-7 days to avoid digestive upset. Avoid lactose, as most dogs are intolerant, but plain, non-fat yogurt with live cultures can aid digestion. Whole grains like cooked brown rice can also improve digestive health and reduce bad breath. Avoid feeding table scraps, as they can contribute to bad breath, bloating, and nutritional imbalances.

Prevent your dog from eating garbage. Keep your dog away from trash bins to avoid them consuming spoiled or inappropriate food and coming into contact with foul-smelling substances.

Exercise your dog regularly. Walking, running, and playing are excellent ways to stimulate bowel movements and reduce bloating.

Take your dog for a check-up. If you suspect the unpleasant odor is coming from your dog's anal glands, visit a veterinarian. They can determine if the glands are impacted or infected.

Have the anal glands expressed. If the vet confirms an issue with your dog's anal glands, let a professional groomer or veterinarian safely and properly express them. You can also research guides on how to perform this procedure at home.

Be aware of potential psychological issues in dogs. If your dog excretes when anxious, excited, or scared, it may indicate underlying psychological problems that need attention. Consult a vet or animal behaviorist to address this issue, as such behavior can contribute to bad odors. Helping your dog stay calm daily can improve the situation.

Wash bedding in the washing machine. Cleaning bedding and removing fleas and dirt will help reduce odors. Wash all bedding, crate pads, and crate covers according to the product label instructions. For heavily used items like old towels, use the highest temperature possible. Opt for fragrance-free or detergent-free laundry products, as dogs have sensitive noses. Hot water or baking soda can effectively eliminate odors without adding scents. Vinegar and hot water also work well. Avoid fabric softeners, as they can irritate your dog's skin.

Dry the bedding thoroughly. Use a dryer on a low setting or air-dry the items under sunlight.

Clean non-washable accessories. Items like large crates or beds that can't be machine-washed should be rinsed with a hose. For heavily soiled items, scrub with a sponge or brush using a mild, biodegradable dish soap.

Re-clean regularly. Wash bedding every 1-2 weeks, depending on how quickly odors return.