Dog Grooming Hints

There is a difference between the smell of a dog and a “smelly” dog. Here we will examine the smelly dog syndrome and a few reasons(and cures)for this odorous effect.

All animals have distinctive odors. Animals lovers recognize those particular smells. Horse people love the smell of horses; as do dog people, know the smell of dogs.

Have you ever been sitting in your living room and wafting through the air comes a smell? “What the heck?” And there at our feet is Fido looking up at you, wagging his tail, so innocent. Right!

It may not be his fault. But what is causing this smell?

Digestive problems: A dogs digestive system works differently from humans and when given human food may react in a gaseous manner, here are a few foods that cause gas.

-Dairy products may cause gas in dogs, milk in particular: Lactose, or milk sugars do not set well with our canine pals.

-Bread products: The yeast can expand in the stomach and cause digestive distress.

-Table scraps: Feeding your dog table scraps can lead to digestive problems. Cooked meats, potatoes and gravy all sound good, smell good, but may not be a great idea as dog food. Too much fat and seasonings could distress your dog.

Problem: Glands on your dog. All dogs have anal glands that can be drained if there is an odor. Your dog groomer should be doing this as part of the monthly grooming routine. But you can do it too. It is a gland that is located close to the anus of your dog. Ask your groomer or your veterinarian to show you where it is located. After you know where this gland is then, its a simple matter to drain it.

Method: Using a paper towel (or two!) gently squeeze this gland, a cloudy substance will ooze out and you simply wipe it away with your trusty paper toweling! Repeat this until no more comes out. Gently clean the area with a soft cloth and dry, no more anal gland odors!

Ear problems: Your dogs ears may need attention. Sometimes odor comes from your dogs ears if they have been wet or there is moisture trapped inide them. This is especially true in long eared dogs such as Cocker Spaniels, and Bassett Hounds, however it can happen to all dogs.

This ear cleaning can and should be done by a dog groomer, however you can clean your dogs ears quite easily.

Method: Again using paper towels or a soft cloth, put a small amount on hydrogen peroxide on the towel over your fingertip. Gently fold back the dogs ear and then place that finger tip over