Why do my dogs smell when they are wet, but not when they are dry?

Answer 1

What do they smell?

Answer 2

Hi Doctor,

I think your dog is suffering from anal gland infection. Any how just peep into a vet's clinic.

Dogs have sebacious glands above their tails. If it is this gland it would be more on top of the tail. If not then it sounds as if she has an allergy hot spot. Either way the treatment is similar. Get a shampoo that has a fungus killing agent in it. Usually this is obtained by the vet, you can check the local pet store to see what they have. The most popular is Chlorahexaderm. This is an antilfugal shampoo that gets great results, follow directions which means leave on the full 10 min's.

Your pet may also need a prednisone shot to relieve her itching the area allowing it to heal. Over the counter benadryl will also help, check with your vet for the dosage on the weight of your dog.

Benadryl is an alternative to steriods, but may not be strong enough for every allergy problem. Keep the area clean and treated and you should see results within 10 days. This does not mean it wont come back if your pet is allergic to something outside. Some dogs only have this problem spring and fall seasons. Skin problems do smell and the worst thing is where ever your pet lays the smell tends to transfer. Good luck and be consistant to get good results, she may need several treatments.

Answer 3

There is a complex pattern of changes in the volatile compounds associated with wetting of brushed dog hair. This pattern appears to manifest as "wet dog" odor. While some amount of change in odor would be expected due to the different partition coefficients when water is added to the hair, the variety of differences indicates a probable chemical or biochemical reaction on the hair."

Answer 4

not all dogs smell like dogs when wet. Hypo-allergenic type dogs...like shih tzus and poodles, etc. Only slightly smell doggyish when they are wet.

Answer 5

Because they damp carpet smell when wet it's the same thing

Answer 6

i find they smell when they're dry aswell but not if you wash them n they are wet

Answer 7

my dog does too, plus my in-laws have 2 as well and they do too, its done no harm to any of them, i guess its normal, unless you wash them every day.

Answer 8

same thing as for human!!