Unpleasant dog odour is a problem faced by many four-legged carers. Why does the dog smell? The reason may not only be a lack of proper hygiene, but also various diseases, diet or even… the emotional state of the animal. In this article, we will take a look at the most common causes of bad odour in dogs and give you tips on how to effectively solve this problem so that your pet smells fresh and healthy again.
Why does your dog smell? The most common causes of odour
Does your dog smell bad? An unpleasant smell in a pet can be the result of a variety of factors – from health problems to poor hygiene. Often it is a combination of several causes, such as infections of the skin, ears, teeth, disorders of the perianal glands or poor diet. Regular bathing and keeping your pet clean is important, but sometimes the problem lies deeper and requires a visit to the vet. Understanding the source of the odour is key to ensuring your dog’s health and comfort!
Skin diseases in the dog
Skin diseases are one of the most common causes of odour in dogs. Bacterial infections, fungal infections, skin allergies or parasites can cause inflammation and odour. Dermatitis, or inflammation of the skin, is often the result of an allergy or a reaction to parasites (e.g. fleas). Regular check-ups with the vet, appropriate treatment and the use of preventive measures are extremely important in maintaining a healthy dog skin and coat.
Ear and tooth infections
Canine ear infections or dental disease are another common source of odour. A dog’s ears can be prone to bacterial and fungal infections, especially in breeds with drooping ears. These manifest themselves not only by odour, but also by itching and pain. Dental and gum infections, such as periodontitis, can lead to serious health problems and an intense, unpleasant odour from the mouth. Regular cleaning of your dog’s ears and teeth is essential to prevent these problems.
Disorders of the perianal glands
The perianal glands in dogs produce a secretion that can have a very unpleasant odour, especially when the glands are blocked or infected. This disorder manifests itself not only in an unpleasant odour, but also in discomfort for the dog, who may frequently lick the anal area or ‘toboggan’ on the floor. Regular emptying of the glands by a vet or a carer who has been properly trained can help prevent these problems.
Why does a dog’s mouth smell bad? The influence of diet on a pet’s smell
Why does your dog smell? Diet has a direct impact on his smell, both from his mouth and throughout his body. Poor quality foods, rich in fillers and artificial additives, can lead to digestive problems and bad breath. An unsuitable diet can also affect the health of the teeth and gums, further compounding the problem. Choosing the right food, rich in natural ingredients and properly balanced, is key to your dog’s health and fresh smell.
How does the type of food affect the smell of my dog’s coat and breath?
The type of food your dog eats has a significant impact on the smell of his coat and breath. Foods rich in high-quality animal protein can improve the condition of the coat, giving it a healthy appearance and minimising odour. In contrast, meals containing too many carbohydrates, low-quality fats or artificial additives can lead to digestive problems. Changing the diet regularly, monitoring your dog’s reaction to new ingredients and consulting your vet will help you find the most suitable food. Check if a grain-free dog food, for example, will not work.
Food intolerances and unpleasant odour
Food intolerances can cause odour in dogs, manifesting as skin problems, digestive problems and general discomfort. A dog that is allergic to certain dietary components may have chronic health problems that affect its odour. Symptoms of intolerance can include itching, skin redness, diarrhoea and bloating. Eliminating problematic ingredients from the diet and introducing a hypoallergenic food can greatly improve the situation. Test how a mono-protein dog food, for example, available in our shop, works for your pet.
Bad smell from your dog’s mouth and metabolic diseases
Why does your dog’s mouth smell bad? This may be caused by metabolic diseases such as diabetes or kidney disease Such disorders often lead to changes in the chemistry of the body’s secretions, which can manifest as an intense, unpleasant smell. Regular blood tests and monitoring of the dog’s health are crucial in diagnosing and treating such diseases. Early detection of metabolic problems allows for more effective management and minimisation of unpleasant symptoms.
Diabetes and the smell of acetone from the dog’s mouth
One of the characteristic symptoms of diabetes in the dog is an acetone smell from the dog’s mouth, which is due to the excessive production of ketones in the body. Ketones are a by-product of fat breakdown that occurs when the body cannot use glucose as an energy source. Such an odour is a clear sign that the dog’s blood sugar levels are abnormal and require immediate vet intervention. Proper treatment of diabetes, including diet and insulin, can help control ketone levels and eliminate the odour.
Kidney and liver problems vs. odour
Kidney and liver problems often lead to unpleasant odour in dogs, both from the mouth and the body. Kidney failure can cause an ammonia smell, which results from the body’s inability to remove toxins effectively. Liver disease can lead to a build-up of toxins in the blood, which manifests as an unpleasant metallic smell. How do you care for your dog in this context? Regular blood and urine tests are key to monitoring kidney and liver function, and early detection of problems allows for more effective treatment and an improved quality of life for your dog.
A bad smell from your dog’s mouth can be a sign that something is wrong with his health or hygiene. Regular bathing, oral hygiene care, proper diet and regular visits to the vet are all key elements that will help keep your pet healthy. Remember, a healthy and well-groomed dog is a happy dog, and you will be able to enjoy his company without unpleasant surprises!
