If there’s nothing you love more than letting your four-pawed friend sleep in your bedroom with you, here’s the good news: it’s actually beneficial! A study published in Mayo `found that humans who sleep near pooches have a very high sleep efficiency, largely because of the relaxing, soothing effect of pets. Still, if your dog tends to have ‘all access’ to beds and sofas, it is important to ensure they smell nice and are clean. Follow these tips and have the most dapper pup in town.
Why the stench?
If your dog is a little stinky, it is important to identify the cause by taking him to the vet. Bad breath can indicate kidney failure and diabetes, as well as tooth decay or gum disease. Sometimes, dogs can have big cavities hiding under the gumline and tooth extraction may be necessary. Therefore, a simple inspection may not reveal the problem. Your vet will check your dog’s oral health but may also recommend blood and/or urine tests to check for organ problems. The latter may be life-threatening so treatment should commence as soon as possible. Another problem that can cause foul odor is an ear infection; you will probably notice your dog scratching more than usual or cocking his head in this case. Ear infections are painful but can be easily treated with an antibiotic ear solution for dogs.
Skin issues
Some skin issues, such as yeast or fungal skin infections, can be itchy and smelly. To test for the presence of yeast, your vet may apply sticky tape to the affected area, peel it off, and identify offending organisms under a microscope. Anti-fungal shampoo helps with smelly dogs affected by yeast. Your veterinarian might also recommend an anti-fungal ointment and oral tablets if necessary.
Anal sacs
If your dog has infected or impacted anal glands, the latter can secrete a thick, fishy-smelling liquid you will certainly notice. It is easy to check and empty anal sacs at home; your vet can show you how. Don’t leave this problem alone. If sacs become infected, they can become incredibly painful for your dog. Visit your vet if you notice this smell, so your dog can be relieved of pain and discomfort as soon as possible.
There are many reasons why your pooch might smell less than pleasant, so it is important to find the exact cause. Skin infections, kidney issues, and tooth and gum issues are just a few problems that could be making your dog feel less than happy. Ensure he is seen to quickly by your vet; bad smells are a sign that something is wrong and should therefore be attended to as soon as possible.
How To Keep The Dog Fresh And Clean
Keeping our dogs smelling fresh and clean is essential not only for our own comfort but for their overall health and well-being. Here are some effective ways to keep your dog smelling great and feeling fresh.
1. Regular Bathing
Bathing your dog is one of the most important things you can do to keep them smelling fresh and clean. The frequency of bathing your dog depends on their breed, lifestyle, and coat type. For most dogs, bathing once a month is sufficient, but dogs with oily coats may require more frequent baths. When bathing your dog, use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo and conditioner, and avoid using human products as they can be harmful to your dog’s skin.
2. Brushing
Regular brushing is essential for maintaining your dog’s coat and keeping them smelling fresh. Brushing your dog helps to remove dead hair, dirt, and other debris that can lead to odors. It also distributes the natural oils in your dog’s coat, which can help keep their coat shiny and healthy. Brushing your dog regularly also helps to prevent matting and tangling, which can trap dirt and odors.
3. Dental Hygiene
Dog breath is a common problem that many pet owners face. Regular dental care can help keep your dog’s breath fresh and their teeth and gums healthy. Brush your dog’s teeth regularly with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste, and consider using dental chews and toys to help clean their teeth and freshen their breath.
4. Regular Grooming
In addition to brushing, regular grooming can help keep your dog smelling fresh and clean. Trimming your dog’s nails, cleaning their ears, and trimming their hair can help prevent odors and keep them looking and feeling great. Grooming your dog also gives you the opportunity to check for any signs of skin irritations, lumps, or bumps that may require veterinary attention.
5. Proper Nutrition
Your dog’s diet can have a significant impact on their overall health and well-being, including their odor. Feeding your dog a healthy, balanced diet that is rich in nutrients and vitamins can help keep their skin and coat healthy and reduce odors. Avoid feeding your dog table scraps and human food, as they can be harmful to your dog’s health and can lead to unpleasant odors.
6. Regular Exercise
Regular exercise is not only essential for your dog’s physical and mental health but can also help reduce odors. Exercise helps to increase circulation, which can help reduce skin odors. It also helps to promote healthy digestion and elimination, which can reduce digestive odors.
Conclusion
Keeping your dog smelling fresh and clean is essential for their overall health and well-being. Regular bathing, brushing, dental care, grooming, proper nutrition, and regular exercise are all essential for maintaining a fresh and clean-smelling dog. By following these tips, you can enjoy the company of your dog without worrying about any unpleasant odors.
