Do Labradors smell?
If you have a stinky canine companion, you aren’t alone. Having dogs that stink is a problem shared by many pet owners, and we understand that it can be a very frustrating experience, especially if you are particular about puppy stink.
However, one important thing you should know is that there is a difference between normal Lab smell and potent dog stink that can actually be prevented.
This post will delve further into the topic of “do Labradors smell?” to help you understand what to do and where to get a home remedy for smelly Labradors.
Do Labrador Retrievers smell bad?
All Labradors smell to some extent, but they are not generally known to be a naturally smelly dog breed.
Nonetheless, Labrador Retrievers are prone to ear infections and skin allergies, which can lead to smelly reactions. This is especially true if you do not fix the problem right away.
For instance, as many of us know, an ear infection can smell very bad. So, while your Lab may not be naturally stinky, they sure are prone to smelling bad.
Why do Labradors smell bad?
Each Labrador Retriever may have different reasons as to why they smell.
Your Lab may be smelly because of one or a mixture of these common causes:
1) Their double coat
Labs boast a beautiful double coat, which is an excellent way to keep dirt and water off of their skin. It also regulates their temperature and keeps them cool in the summer and warm during the winter.
However, the double coat can also work against the Labrador Retriever because it could also be why they are smelly.
Labradors have thick, double coats, so moisture and dirt can get stuck under it.
Consequently, they will need regular brushing and occasional baths to help keep their skin and fur clean.
2) They love water and dirt.
Labrador Retrievers love to play in the water and dirt. In fact, you may quickly find your Lab rolling around in the dirt, mud, puddles, or anything they can get into.
While the double coat of Labrador Retrievers is waterproof for the most part, moisture and dirt can get trapped under all that fur.
Your Labrador’s double coat can trap organic materials from water and absorb it. While it greatly varies on the water source, the coat can absorb debris like dirt, plant material, fish and animal waste, algae, bacteria, and more.
Hence, if the dirt and moisture settle for more than a few days, the chances are high that your Lab will start to smell really strongly.
3) Skin allergies and infections
Labrador Retrievers are prone to getting skin allergies and infections. These allergies and infections can make your Lab very smelly, especially if you do not address the problem with the help of a certified veterinarian.
Common causes of Lab skin allergies include wheat, chicken, pork, soy, lamb, beef, egg, and dairy.
A skin infection can be caused by underlying skin allergies and other diseases like hormonal disorders.
Of course, certain bacteria can also come in contact with your dog’s skin and cause an infection.
4) Ear infections
Like humans, Labradors are prone to ear infections because they have floppy ears. So, bacteria can easily enter and get trapped in your dog’s ears.
Ear yeast infections are very common for many Labradors, for instance. Too much moisture in your dog’s ear can let yeast and bacteria grow.
Ideally, you should speak to a veterinarian to get the best treatment for your Lab.
A veterinarian will give you an ear cleaning solution or other medication to put into your dog’s ear to get rid of the infection.
5) Bad diet
Your Labrador Retriever may also stink because of a bad diet. A bad diet can result in bad breath and increased flatulence.
How do I stop my Labrador from smelling?
1) Regular brushing
Brushing your dog’s coat at least once a day for 10-15 minutes can help a lot since it gets rid of excess hair, dirt, and debris trapped under all their fur.
2) Occasional baths
Labradors only have to bathe once a month. Bathing them more than that—unless your veterinarian says they have to because of a skin condition—can irritate their skin and make them more prone to getting skin irritations.
Some dogs actually take baths every 3-6 months and are perfectly fine.
However, you can only do that if your dog is not dirty. Otherwise, giving your Lab a bath once a month is more than enough.
You should only use medicated shampoos for your dog if your veterinarian prescribed it to you.
Most people agree that oatmeal shampoos are excellent dog shampoos. Organic oatmeal shampoos can help soothe your dog’s skin by naturally moisturizing it and relieve them from itchiness.
3) Rinse your dog.
If your dog recently took a proper bath but got dirty from playing outside in the dirt and water, then you can rinse them.
Giving them a quick rinse, making sure it reaches their skin, and using a shower or hose can help remove excess dirt and material. You may also want to use the best shampoo for smelly Labrador.
You can use your hand to shake their coat and rub their skin while you rinse them to make sure there is no leftover dirt.
4) Doggy-safe perfume or deodorizing sprays
Deodorizing sprays and perfume that is safe for dogs can easily help your dog smell better until bath day.
These sprays and perfumes can mask your dog’s odor or at least decrease it so you do not overbathe them.
However, keep in mind that these sprays and perfumes are not a replacement for regular baths and rinsing.
If your dog has an ear infection or skin allergy that is causing them to smell bad, it is better to address those problems instead of trying to hide the smell.
5) Cornstarch or baking soda
After your dog gets rinsed or takes a bath, you can sprinkle a little bit of cornstarch or baking soda on their coat while it is still a little damp.
The cornstarch and baking soda absorbs odor, so it can lessen how much they will smell until they play outside again.
However, you want to sprinkle it on their coat very lightly. Too much cornstarch or baking soda can end up caking on their fur.
6) Get them to stop rolling in the dirt
Try training your Labrador to stop rolling in smelly things. For tips to help you keep your Lab’s mind occupied, you can check out our posts here.
7) Change their diet
As earlier mentioned, your Labrador Retriever may start to smell bad as a result of sticking to a diet that is bad for their health. Hence, it may be time for you to consider changing your Labrador’s diet.
All in all
Yes, Labradors do smell to some extent.
However, there are measures you can take to keep your Lab clean and fragrance-free.
Take note of the tips above to learn how to keep the stinky odors at bay.
