Why does my dog smell bad in skin folds? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
A bad smell from your dog’s skin folds is often caused by trapped moisture, dirt, waxy skin debris or irritation in the folds. It can happen more easily in dogs with loose skin, wrinkles or folds that stay warm and damp. In some cases, the smell is the first sign that the skin is starting to become inflamed or infected, so it’s worth checking the area carefully.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the smell is coming from one fold or several, and whether it’s constant or only after exercise, eating or getting wet.
2. Look closely for redness, dampness, soreness, swelling, scabs, discharge or hair loss in the folds.
3. Feel gently for heat or tenderness, which can suggest the skin is irritated.
4. Check whether the folds are staying moist after walks, bathing or rainy weather.
5. Notice if your dog is rubbing, licking, scratching or seeming bothered by the area.
6. Think about any recent changes in diet, grooming, shampoo, bedding or activity that might have affected the skin.
7. Check for a yeasty, musty or sour smell, which can sometimes go along with skin irritation.
Common Causes
The most common reason is moisture and debris trapped in the folds, which can make the skin smell unpleasant even before it looks obviously sore.
Skin fold dermatitis is another common cause. This means the skin in the fold has become irritated, usually because of rubbing, dampness and poor air flow.
Yeast or bacterial overgrowth can also cause a stronger smell, especially if the skin is red, sticky or uncomfortable.
Less commonly, allergies, underlying skin disease or anatomy that keeps the folds deep and moist may contribute to repeated odour problems.
What To Do
Keep the folds as clean and dry as you can without overdoing it. After swimming, bathing or wet weather, gently dry the area well.
If the skin looks only mildly dirty and not sore, regular gentle cleaning as part of your grooming routine may help reduce trapped moisture and build-up.
Try to stop the folds staying damp for long periods, and check them regularly so you can spot changes early.
If the smell keeps coming back, the skin looks inflamed, or your dog seems uncomfortable, it’s sensible to speak to your vet for tailored advice.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if the smell is strong or persistent, the skin is red or sore, there is discharge or bleeding, or your dog seems itchy, painful or uncomfortable. Repeat skin fold problems may need a vet to check for infection, allergies or another underlying cause.
Products That May Help
If your dog’s skin folds need regular cleaning or grooming support, the arlo.® Pet Care collection may be useful as part of a calm hygiene routine.
Related Questions
How do I clean my dog’s skin folds safely?
Why does my dog smell yeasty?
When should skin fold odour be checked by a vet?
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.