What should I do if my dog’s smell is coming from its skin folds? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your dog smells as if the odour is coming from skin folds, it’s often due to trapped moisture, dirt, skin oils or a bit of irritation in those areas. It can usually be managed with careful cleaning and drying, but there may be more than one cause, so it’s worth checking the skin closely rather than just masking the smell.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the smell is strongest after exercise, wet weather, grooming or a bath.
2. Look closely at the folds for redness, dampness, discharge, scabs, stickiness or broken skin.
3. Gently part the skin and see if there’s trapped dirt, hair, waxy build-up or debris.
4. Notice whether your dog seems itchy, uncomfortable or is licking or rubbing the area more than usual.
5. Check if the smell is coming from one small fold or from several areas, such as the face, neck, armpits or around the tail.
6. See whether the skin feels hotter than usual, looks swollen or has a wet, raw look.
7. Think about any recent changes in shampoo, grooming routine, diet or environment that might have affected the skin.
Common Causes
The most common reason is moisture getting trapped in skin folds, which can lead to a musty or sour smell. Build-up of skin oils, dirt and loose hair can add to it, especially in dogs with deeper folds or thicker coats.
Sometimes the skin becomes irritated from rubbing, rubbing plus moisture, or grooming products that don’t suit that area. Less commonly, a yeast or bacterial skin problem may be involved, especially if the skin is red, sticky or sore.
In a few dogs, the smell may also come from a separate issue nearby, such as the ears, mouth or paws, so it’s worth checking the whole dog rather than assuming it’s only the folds.
What To Do
Gently clean the fold with a soft, damp cloth or a vet-approved pet wipe, then dry it thoroughly. Skin folds should be left clean and dry, not damp after washing.
Keep an eye on the skin over the next few days. If the smell comes back quickly, or the area looks sore, try to note when it happens and whether anything seems to trigger it.
If your dog has deep folds, regular routine cleaning may help reduce build-up. It also helps to keep the coat around the area tidy and to dry your dog well after walks, rain or bathing.
Do not use human creams, powders or fragranced products unless your vet has said they’re suitable. These can sometimes irritate the skin or make it harder to see what’s going on.
When To Contact A Vet
Speak to your vet if the skin is red, painful, swollen, broken, weeping or very smelly, or if your dog seems itchy or uncomfortable. You should also get advice if the odour keeps coming back, the skin folds are getting worse, or home cleaning doesn’t seem to help.
Products That May Help
If your dog’s smell is coming from skin folds, gentle grooming and regular cleaning can help support everyday hygiene between washes. The arlo.® Pet Care collection may be useful for routine coat and skin care.
Related Questions
How often should I clean my dog’s skin folds?
What does a yeast smell on a dog usually mean?
Why does my dog smell worse after a walk or bath?
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.