How to Decrease Dog Body Odor

Dogs can be great companions and playmates but bad odors coming from your dog's body can quickly ruin the fun. While all dogs have a natural smell, sometimes they've rolled around a bit too much in the dirt and they need a thorough cleaning to get rid of body odor. Keeping your dog clean and well-groomed not only eliminates the unwanted smell but helps maintain your dog's health as well.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog shampoo
  • Cotton balls
  • Dog hair brush
  • Dog toothpaste
  • Children's toothbrush or fingertip toothbrush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Brush your dog's coat frequently with a brush designed for its specific coat type. Brushing removes odor-causing materials and natural oils that may cause odor.

    • 2

      Bathe your dog according to the frequency recommended by your veterinarian. Some breeds benefit from weekly baths while others require less frequent bathing. Avoid dog shampoo that has a strong fragrance, as these shampoos often cause dogs to immediately go outside to roll in the dirt and cover up the smell of the shampoo.

    • 3

      Clean your dog's ears weekly with cotton balls. Ear infections can be a source of odor, especially in drop-eared dogs.

    • 4

      Brush your dog's teeth with toothpaste formulated for dogs. Use a children's toothbrush or a rubber fingertip brush for smaller breeds. Keeping your dog's teeth clean prevents bacteria in the mouth from spreading to other areas of the body.

    • 5

      Schedule regular visits with a veterinarian, who can perform complete examinations to detect infections and illnesses that may cause odors.