What should I check if my dog suddenly smells worse than usual?
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Overview
If your dog suddenly smells worse than usual, the first things to check are the ears, skin, paws, mouth, and coat. A change in smell often comes from something simple like a dirty coat, damp fur, waxy ears, or a bit of trapped debris, but it can also point to skin irritation or an infection that needs a vet’s advice.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the smell is coming from one area, such as the ears, mouth, feet, or rear end, rather than the whole dog.
2. Look closely at the skin for redness, flaking, scabs, soreness, or greasy patches, especially in skin folds, under the collar, and around the belly.
3. Smell and inspect the ears for wax, discharge, head shaking, or signs your dog is rubbing at them.
4. Check the paws for dampness, trapped mud, mud between the toes, broken skin, or a strong yeasty smell.
5. Lift the lips and see if the breath smells unusually foul, or if there’s tartar, swollen gums, loose teeth, or food stuck around the mouth.
6. Feel the coat for areas that are unusually oily, damp, matted, or sticky, especially if your dog has recently rolled, swum, or been washed and not dried properly.
7. Check the bottom and tail area for faecal staining, discharge, or signs your dog has been licking or scooting.
Common Causes
The most common reason is a dirty or damp coat, especially after exercise, swimming, muddy walks, or poor drying after washing.
Skin irritation, trapped moisture, or a build-up of natural oils can also cause a stronger smell, particularly in dogs with folds, long coats, or thicker undercoats.
Ears are another frequent source, especially if there’s wax build-up, inflammation, or a yeast-type smell.
Bad breath can come from dental plaque or gum problems, while smelly paws may be linked to dampness, licking, or minor skin irritation.
Less commonly, a sudden change in smell may be linked to anal gland discomfort, an infection, or another skin or body issue that needs veterinary assessment.
What To Do
Start with a calm, thorough check of the coat, ears, mouth, paws, and rear end so you can narrow down where the smell is coming from.
If your dog has been wet or muddy, dry them properly, especially in thick coat areas and between the toes.
If the coat is just dirty, a careful wash with a dog-appropriate grooming routine may help, but avoid over-washing as that can sometimes make skin feel worse.
Keep an eye on any red, sore, or itchy areas and note whether the smell returns after exercise, swimming, or grooming.
If the smell is mild and your dog seems otherwise well, a short period of monitoring is reasonable. If it keeps coming back or you spot changes in the skin, ears, mouth, or behaviour, it’s sensible to speak to your vet.
Products That May Help
If your dog’s smell has changed, a sensible grooming routine can help you keep on top of coat, skin, ears and paws while you look for the cause.
Related Questions
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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.