Start by finding where the smell is coming from
A normal dog has a mild, characteristic scent. A strong or sudden odor usually has a cause, and fixing it means finding the source rather than covering it up. Try smelling these areas one at a time:
- Ears: a sour, yeasty, or foul smell, sometimes with head shaking or discharge.
- Mouth: very bad breath, which can point to dental disease.
- Skin and coat: a greasy, musty, or “corn chip” smell, especially in skin folds or paws.
- Rear end: a strong fishy smell can mean the anal glands.
- Coat only: dirt, rolling in something, or a damp coat.
Common causes of dog odor
Ears. Ear infections often produce a strong smell. Redness, scratching, head shaking, or discharge are reasons to see a vet instead of trying home remedies. See your vet before putting anything in an ear, since the right treatment depends on the cause. For ways to lower the odds of repeat problems, see how to prevent dog ear infections.
Teeth and gums. Plaque, tartar, and gum disease are common causes of bad breath. Regular tooth brushing with a dog toothpaste helps (see the best way to take care of your dog’s teeth), and a vet can check for dental disease.
Skin problems and yeast. Allergies, yeast overgrowth, and bacterial infections can all cause a musty or sour smell, often with itching, redness, or greasy skin. These generally need a diagnosis from a vet.
Anal glands. Dogs have two small scent glands near the anus. Sometimes they leak or become full, causing a fishy smell, scooting, or licking at the area. Do not assume you should empty them yourself; a vet or groomer can advise.
Rolling and outdoor messes. Many dogs enjoy rolling in dead animals, droppings, or mud. A bath usually solves this.
Dirty bedding and environment. Dog smell builds up in beds, blankets, and car seats.
Other medical causes. Digestive trouble, gas, kidney or other illnesses, and unspayed females in heat may also create smells. If odor is paired with other symptoms, see your vet.
Why do some dogs, like hounds, smell stronger?
Some breeds, including many hounds, have oilier skin or more skin folds and loose lips, and may seem to have a stronger scent. Dogs with long ears, such as basset hounds, can trap moisture in the ear canal. A strong “dog smell” can be normal for a breed, but a change from your dog’s usual smell deserves attention.
How to get rid of wet dog smell
Wet dog smell comes from moisture in the coat that encourages the growth of microbes. To reduce it:
- Dry your dog thoroughly after baths, swimming, or rain. Towel dry, then use a dryer on a cool or low-heat setting if your dog tolerates it, keeping it moving and away from the skin.
- Dry down to the skin, particularly in thick coats and between the toes.
- Brush before bathing to remove loose hair and dirt, and after drying to keep the coat from matting.
- Rinse thoroughly, since leftover shampoo can make the skin itchy and the coat dull.
- Wash towels and bedding regularly.
If the smell returns shortly after a good bath and dry, a skin issue may be involved. Ask your vet.
A routine that keeps odor down
- Brush several times a week or as suits the coat. Our guide to dog shedding solutions covers tools by coat type.
- Bathe with a dog-specific shampoo, at a frequency your vet or groomer suggests. Choose gentle products and see our list of dog shampoos to avoid.
- Clean ears only as your vet recommends, using a vet-approved cleaner.
- Brush teeth regularly with dog toothpaste.
- Wash bedding in hot water as the fabric allows, and vacuum furniture and car seats.
- Air out your home when possible.
Avoid perfumed sprays and heavy deodorizers as a long-term fix. They can irritate and may hide a problem.
What about skunk spray?
Skunk spray is hard to remove. Wear gloves, keep your dog outside, and check for spray in the eyes (redness or squinting is a reason to call your vet). Commercial skunk shampoos exist, and your vet can suggest an option. Be careful with homemade mixtures, which can irritate the skin or eyes, and ask your vet before trying one. If your dog was sprayed and later seems unwell, or the skunk may have bitten or scratched your dog, contact a vet.
When a smell means see a vet
Contact your vet if your dog’s odor comes with:
- Lethargy, low energy, or hiding
- Loss of appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Increased thirst or urination
- Red, painful, scabby, oozing, or swollen skin
- Head shaking, ear discharge, or pain when touching the ears
- Very bad breath, drooling, or difficulty eating
- Scooting or constant licking of the rear
- A sudden and dramatic change in smell that does not improve after a bath
A dog who smells bad and also seems lethargic should be examined, because the smell may be one sign of an underlying illness or infection. If your dog’s coat is thinning as well as smelling, see our article on dog weight loss and hair loss.
Quick takeaways
- Sniff to locate the source: ears, mouth, skin, rear, or coat.
- Dry thoroughly, brush regularly, and wash bedding.
- Use dog-specific, gentle products rather than perfumes.
- Persistent or sudden odor, or odor with lethargy or other symptoms, warrants a vet visit.