by Snow Vandemore

Created on: June 29, 2008   Last Updated: June 30, 2008

What can you do about a smelly dog? We bathe and groom and spray and brush...after all, a smelly dog is a reflection on its owner, isn't it? If Fido smells, then we must be doing something wrong, or not doing anything at all to deal with the "problem."

Unless there is an underlying medical problem, such as an ear infection, dental concerns or a chronic skin condition, dogs in general prefer being smelly to camouflage their scent. Rolling happily in dead bugs, dead snakes, dead anything, keeps them from being outed by whatever they think is out there to get them. Let's face it, we all too often forget that dogs are basically domesticated wolves. Your dog is trying to aid in its own survival. They just can't understand why you, their beloved owner, keeps undoing what it often takes a whole day to accomplish... masking their scent.

Dealing with what we consider a "smelly" dog can be an excercise in futility. Knowing that - is dealing with the problem in and of itself. There's "smelly" and then there is downright offensive. Recognizing the difference will make it easier on the both of you in the long run.

I, myself, relish in burying my nose in my German Shepherd's neck to smell the essence of what she is... my friend, my baby, my dog. I wouldn't trade that experience for anything. The smell of your own dog is something like the smell of your newborn child...you'd know it anywhere and it is somehow comforting. However, when dogs hit the yard and find something rank to roll in... there comes a time or two when something has to be done.

I'm fortunate in that my dog loves water and a few minutes of chasing the spray coming out of the garden hose leaves her smelling a bit better than she did before. But if you are not so lucky and your dog considers water or a bath comparable to a visit to the vet... then there are some quick remedies to employ.

Dry Shampoos

What works for humans often works for dogs. If I'm not able to shampoo my hair do to time constraints or just plain laziness, I'll sometimes apply baking soda or cornstarch to the roots of my hair to absorb odor and oil. This can also be a quick fix for your dog as well. Shake a minimal amount of baking soda or corn starch in and around the offensive area and use your fingers to work it in their coat. Let it stand for a few minutes, then brush it out completely.

Wet Shampoos

The most common remedy is bathing your pup. This is fine, but keep in mind that too much bathing can dry your dog's coat and leave him or her with flaky, itchy skin. Using a mild dog shampoo, once a month, is okay, if your dog is not prone to dry skin. A little bit can go a long way, especially if your dog is not dirty, but just smelly. Light on the shampoo and heavy on the water is a good rule of thumb. And most importantly, don't be tempted to use your own shampoo on your dog...it is just too harsh for his or her skin.

Brushing

A good brushing can do wonders to remove sticky, odorous residue from your dog's coat, so you may be able to rectify a bad situation with simply a little elbow grease. Long-coated dogs will certainly benefit from this tactic. Use a brush that is specifically designed for your dog's coat - one that won't irritate his or her skin too much but will get down into the undercoat and loosen dirt and odor. My dog has short hair with a thick undercoat and I find that a curry comb made for horses works the best.

A rose is a rose by any other name - but if your dog smells so bad you don't want to hug him, then it's definitely time to deal with the problem.

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