Why does my dog’s skin smell bad and keep getting infected?
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Overview
If your dog’s skin smells bad and keeps getting infected, there’s usually an underlying skin issue rather than just a one-off problem. Common causes include skin folds holding moisture, allergies, parasites, greasy skin, or small areas of skin damage that keep becoming irritated. The smell often comes from bacteria or yeast building up on the skin, but it’s important not to guess the cause.
Things To Check
1. Check where the smell is coming from, such as the ears, paws, skin folds, armpits, groin or all over the coat.
2. Look closely for redness, heat, scabs, broken skin, discharge or areas that seem sore when touched.
3. See whether your dog is scratching, licking, rubbing or shaking their head more than usual.
4. Notice whether the problem gets worse after swimming, bathing, muddy walks or wet weather.
5. Check for fleas, flea dirt or signs of mites, especially if the skin is itchy.
6. Think about any recent changes in food, shampoo, bedding or household cleaners.
7. If your dog has folds, long fur or a thick coat, check whether those areas stay damp or greasy.
Common Causes
Skin allergies are one of the most common reasons dogs get recurring skin infections. These can make the skin itchy, inflamed and easier for bacteria or yeast to overgrow.
Parasites such as fleas or mites can also trigger irritation, scratching and secondary infection.
Moist skin folds, thick coats and places that stay warm and damp can encourage odour and skin irritation, especially if your dog is prone to licking or chewing those areas.
Less commonly, ongoing skin problems can be linked to hormonal issues or other medical conditions that affect the skin’s normal balance.
What To Do
Keep a simple note of when the smell starts, where it’s worst and what seems to make it flare up. That information can be really useful if you need veterinary help later.
After wet walks or muddy outings, dry your dog thoroughly, especially in skin folds, between the toes and under the ears if they are prone to moisture buildup.
Stick to a consistent grooming routine so you can spot changes early, remove loose hair and notice new sore patches before they become more irritated.
Try to reduce repeated licking or scratching where possible, since that can keep the skin inflamed and slow recovery.
If your dog’s coat or skin seems greasy, flaky or hard to keep clean, gentle routine washing may help support day-to-day hygiene, but it’s best to choose products that suit dogs with sensitive skin and use them as directed.
Ongoing odour or repeated infections usually mean the skin needs a proper assessment rather than just another wash at home.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if the smell keeps coming back, the skin is painful, there’s pus or discharge, your dog is very itchy, or the problem is spreading. It’s also sensible to get advice if the infections are recurring, because that often means there’s an underlying cause that needs proper treatment and management.
Products That May Help
If your dog needs regular grooming or washing support as part of ongoing skin care, the arlo.® Pet Care collection may be useful for building a simple routine at home.
Related Questions
Why does my dog keep licking one spot on their skin?
How often should I bathe a dog with sensitive skin?
Could my dog’s bad skin smell be from their ears or paws?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.