Why Wet Dogs are Stinky Dogs: The Science Behind the Stink

WET STINKY DOGS: IT’S ORGANIC!

According to the American Chemical Society, stinky wet dogs are due to canine chemistry. That distinctive smelly odor is from the many microorganisms that naturally reside in your dog’s fur including yeasts, fungi, and bacteria.

But specifically, the smell comes from the excrements (or feces or waste products) of these microorganisms in the form of volatile organic compounds also known as organic acids.

Wired.com explains when these microscopic pieces of excrement are dry, they typically don’t smell. But with the addition of water, the chemical bonds break apart and the stinky smell is released into the air and often right up your nose!

In addition, as the water in your dog’s fur evaporates, it raises the air’s humidity creating a higher concentration of stinky molecules! Think of when it rains and the ground releases a stronger damp smell.

NOTE: While some microorganisms are natural, if they get out of balance, your dog’s immune system may become overwhelmed and infections may develop.

WET STINKY DOGS: NATURAL OILS

Another natural source of the wet, stinky dog smell is the coat oil called sebum. This natural oil is critical in protecting your dog’s skin from drying out. But some canine breeds produce more oil than others. As with the microorganisms discussed above, when water combines with this oil, a stinky odor usually occurs.

WET STINKY DOG: IS IT BREED-RELATED?

Yes, the smell of a wet dog could be worse with certain breeds. Because yeast and bacteria thrive in moist areas, K9 breeds with large skin flaps or wrinkly skin or faces may emit a stronger wet dog smell.

These may include the following dog breeds according to the AKC.

• Chinese Shar-Pei

• Pugs

• Bulldogs

• French Bulldogs

If you own these breeds, make sure the extra skin is well-cleaned and completely dry to discourage the overgrowth of potentially stinky microorganisms.

Also, regularly clean and dry any damp areas on dogs with oily skin (like Bassett Hounds) or K9s who are known to be perpetual droolers (like the Mastiff, Newfoundland, Great Dane, and more), particularly around their mouths.

WET STINKY DOG: WHAT TO DO!

Since the stinky, wet dog smell is a natural occurrence, the next question is how to address that wet dog smell!

1. Bathe or groom your dog regularly. But also make sure they are thoroughly dry with a heavy-duty dog towel or a dog blow dryer.

2. Regularly clean your dog’s belongings including:

• Collars and harnesses.

• Beds.

• Toys.

1. Always thoroughly dry your dog after a walk in the rain or a swim before they rub against the furniture or floor leaving their stinky smell behind!