Anal gland issues, skin infections, excessive sebum from overbathing, and ear infections are the most common causes of dog odors that linger after showers.
Those constant baths you're giving your dog are removing natural oils from their skin and coat, which signals their glands to secrete even more oils, and those oils are magnets for dirt, grime, and odor-inducing bacteria.
Just about every dog gets compacted anal glands at one time or another. As the glands experience a buildup, it can progress to an infection. But the buildup also can cause a pungent smell that's difficult to ignore. Your dog's vet can express the glands and make sure they're healthy.
Allergies, hormonal imbalances, fungal infections, external parasites, inflammation, wounds, bleeding tumors, and other skin issues can cause bacteria and yeast on the skin's surface to take hold and produce foul odors.
Getting Wet Dog Smell Out Of The House
Generally no more than every two weeks is best, and if you have a large, or heavily coated breed, once every month or two is plenty.
Next time you wash your dog, comprehensively bathe all the areas that are most likely to get stinky, including the hindquarters and between the toes on the paws. That way, when he's drying out, you shouldn't notice the same level of foul odors.
You can use a variety of odor-neutralizing laundry detergents or additives, such as apple cider vinegar. Add ¼ cup during the detergent cycle (and even another one during the rinse cycle, if it's really bad!).
Anal gland issues, skin infections, excessive sebum from overbathing, and ear infections are the most common causes of dog odors that linger after showers.
Sometimes figuring out when your dog needs a bath is as easy as smelling their coat. If your dog emits a foul or unusual odor, you may want to consider giving them a thorough wash. Giving your dog a thorough bath every four to six weeks will ensure your furry friend stays nice and clean.
Generally speaking, a healthy dog with a short, smooth coat and no skin problems doesn't need to be bathed often. In most cases, dog baths are more for the benefit of their pet parents than for the dogs themselves. Even so, it's a good idea to bathe your pooch at least once every two to three months.
Shampoo. Dog groomers always use shampoo especially formulated for dogs, including those specifically designed to remove odors from the hair and skin. These shampoos go the extra step to eliminate odors with various odor-killing ingredients, while other shampoos simply shield odors for a limited period of time.
Groomers make dogs smell good by bathing and grooming them, which removes dirt and oils from the skin and fur. They also use specialized shampoos, conditioners, and fragrances that leave the dog with a fresh and pleasant scent.
Allergies, hormonal imbalances, fungus, parasites and localized inflammation can lead to an overgrowth of yeast or bacteria on the skin and cause an unpleasant smell. Your dog's discomfort will lead to excessive scratching and licking which can cause a secondary bacterial infection.
One reason your Does your dog still smells after glands expressed is that there is still build up. The anal gland secretions can build up and become thick and pasty. This can lead to anal gland blockage. In other words, the glans are plugged.
Never bathe your dog more than once a week unless it's recommended by your vet. While you're bathing your dog, take special care to note any lumps, bump or skin changes that could indicate a health problem. If you find something of concern, be sure to let your vet know.
Conclusion. So the bottom line is this, dogs don't need to wipe themselves because they have a different anatomy than ours. At times, you may have to help your dog wipe his bottom but this is not an everyday occurence and should only be done as needed. A dog can live a perfectly healthy life and never have to wipe.
The short answer is: as often as necessary. Contrary to popular belief, bathing your dog can be a weekly or even twice per week experience you both can enjoy.
Try using vinegar (diluted with a bit of water) in a spray bottle and spray on carpets or floors. Or use in combination with baking soda on cushions or bedding for an extra powerful, odor-eliminating punch.
WHAT DOGS NEED THIS SERVICE? Certain breeds (usually on the small side) are more likely to need monthly, manual expression of their glands: Chihuahuas, Toy and Miniature Poodles, Cocker Spaniels, Lhasa Apsos, Basset Hounds, and Beagles top the list. However, anal gland issues can affect dogs of all sizes.
Be on the lookout for the following signs: Your dog is scooting on the carpet. Your dog is licking his bottom a lot. If your dog's glands are really full, they may leak out a stinky, pungent smell.
If your dog is itching and has a distinctive musty smell or if his feet smell like Corn Chips, or ears smell like musty mold, he may have a yeast infection. Yeast is tremendously itchy.
Brushing will help remove the dirt, debris, and allergens your dog's coat can collect. When these build up in the fur they can contribute to a bad odor. Brushing also helps reduce shedding by removing dead or loose hairs and distributes the natural oils for a healthy and clean coat.
Beyond the Bath
Bathing isn't the only part of grooming that helps keep your dog smelling clean. Brushing his coat removes dirt, dead hair, and other debris that can cause odors. Ear cleaning is also an important task that helps maintain a fresh-smelling dog.