How to Get the Stink Smell Out of a Dog

Every dog owner knows that their beloved pet will eventually emit a stinky smell, no matter how well-kept they are. Keeping a dog clean and smelling fresh will result in a happier and healthier pet that takes fewer trips to the vet over the course of its lifetime, saving the dog undue stress and saving the dog owner money. A variety of easy techniques̵2;when performed routinely̵2;can be used to ward off that stinky smell and keep your dog smelling great.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog shampoo
  • Towels
  • Hair dryer
  • Quick cleanser for in-between washes
  • Breath-freshening treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Check the dog carefully to determine the cause of the smell. Look through the dog̵7;s fur to the skin to see if there are any open wounds that need treating. If you discover wounds, be sure to have them checked out by a vet, as an odor can indicate there is an infection. Open the dog̵7;s mouth and sniff inside to see if the stinky smell is actually coming from the mouth. If so, the teeth and mouth may need to be cleaned by a vet professionally as there may be excess buildup and bacteria present. If the pet appears healthy, odors can usually be improved superficially.

    • 2

      Bathe the dog more frequently than usual to help alleviate odors. Use a specially formulated dog shampoo and lather according to the instructions. Pay special attention to the areas between the skin folds, as dead skin and fur can be trapped there. Dry the dog thoroughly; using a hair dryer on a low setting is ideal. Towel-dry the dog, then angle the hair dryer in the opposite direction of the dog̵7;s fur. This will ensure that the dog̵7;s thick fur is thoroughly dried and will prevent a damp, musty odor from developing.

    • 3

      Launder the dog̵7;s bedding and soft toys frequently. Saliva and dander left on these items can cause a stinky smell. Be sure to read the items̵7; care instructions before laundering. Clean these items once a week.

    • 4

      Apply a product formulated to clean quickly in between more thorough washes. These products freshen the dog without needing to give it an actual bath. A local pet supply store will carry a variety of waterless cleansers, sprays or wipes to keep the dog smelling pleasant.

    • 5

      Keep the dog̵7;s breath smelling fresh by establishing an oral care routine. The vet may decide that the best way to keep mouth odor at bay is to get the dog̵7;s teeth professionally cleaned, or the vet may educate the dog owner on how to care for the dog̵7;s teeth at home. In between cleanings̵2;at home or at the vet̵2;provide the dog with breath-freshening and anti-tartar treats. These will help keep foul smells at a minimum.