What’s That Smell? A Guide To Your Dog’s Funky Aromas

Of course you love your dog. They meet you at the door when you get home from work, cuddle each night as you drift off to sleep, and make you laugh when you're having a bad day. Even with all those great attributes, there is one thing that's on the con list when it comes to the beloved creatures; they can stink! Most dog smells can be controlled with regular grooming, but how do you know if it's just regular dog stink, or a health problem that needs veterinary attention at a clinic like Woodside Veterinary Hospital? Here are a few scents to keep watch for.

What's that Sour Smell Coming from Your Dog's Head?

Certain breeds, especially dogs with floppy ears, are prone to getting ear infections. Anytime your dog gets wet it's important you completely dry their ears to avoid a yeast infection. Is a sour smell coming from your dog's ear? Get out a flashlight and take a look. If you notice any discharge, redness, or your dog seems like he or she is in pain, it's time to head to the veterinarian. To avoid these types of infections in the future, add a daily ear cleaning into your dog's repertoire.

Yuck! It Smells Like Fish!

When dogs poop, they also release a secretion from their anal sacs. The scented fluid lets other animals know your dog has been around. Sometimes, that fluid will build up and burst out at inopportune times, like when your dog is laying on your brand new couch. This foul fluid has a strong fishy smell, which you will want to clean with upholstery cleaner immediately. If your dog has had loose bowels recently, their sacs may have built up just from not having the pressure of fecal matter. There is also a chance the anal sacs are infected. Ask your veterinarian to examine the area to make sure your dog gets proper treatment.

Is that corn chips?

It smells like someone's eating corn chips, but you're cuddling with your dog in bed, and you're pretty sure they didn't hide a bag of crunchy snacks under your pillow. It could be that your dog has an overgrowth of yeast on their feet. While you may want to take them to the groomer for a bath, unless the smell is overpowering it's probably not something to worry about. With proper paw maintenance, the yeast count should regulate on its own.

They say the nose knows, and you can tell what smells are normal and what odors are harmful when they emanate from your pet. If you suddenly notice a strong, foul scent, you should take your dog to a veterinarian to be sure your dog isn't suffering from an infection or illness.


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