Pet parents can become obsessed with the various smells that come with living with a dog. Sometimes the smell is easily resolved, other times it’s related to a health problem that requires treatment. It’s important to get to the root cause of the smell to determine whether or not your pet requires more than just a bath.
Bathing At Home
Bathing your dog at home can help them smell better. Unfortunately, this is often temporary. Most dogs begin smelling bad shortly after being bathed. Sometimes, they even smell worse after a bath.
Most people do not have the tools and equipment needed to properly clean their pet at home. A professional groomer uses high-powered sprayers and dryers to get them clean and ensure they are completely dry after their bath. This is important. Leaving your pet wet can cause them to develop a mildew-like smell shortly after being bathed.
Most people don’t realize that their dog requires their anal glands expressed during their bath. This is especially true for small dogs, as they do not have the muscle strength needed to clear these glands themselves. The anal glands are located on either side of the rectum. They fill with fluid, which can turn solid and cause serious health problems if not removed regularly. If not expressed, these glands can cause your dog to smell extremely bad.
Skin Conditions
Dogs are prone to several skin conditions that can cause them to smell. These conditions might cause oily skin, bald patches, or sores to develop. Sometimes the only sign of a problem is a continuous yeast-like smell that does not go away with regular professional bathing.
If your dog is experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it’s important to take them to a qualified veterinarian. A vet will diagnose the problem and prescribe the appropriate medication. This is typically a special shampoo, although your vet might prescribe other medications as well.
Ear Infection
Ear infections often cause the ears to smell. If you notice a bad smell coming from your dog, inspect their ears. Call your vet if dirt, redness, or other irritation is present.
Claws N Paws Day Spa offers professional pet grooming in Orange County, CA. We can help you determine the cause of your dog’s bad smell. Please contact us to set up an appointment.
Many people wonder how often they should have their dog groomed. While most people are pretty good about bringing their dog once every 4-6 weeks, there are some that only bring their dog in once a year. These dogs often come to us in really bad condition. They might be caked with dirt, infested with fleas, or matted from head to tail.