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Dogs are our loyal companions, but some breeds are known for their strong, sometimes overpowering odors. Certain dogs develop a natural “doggy” smell due to their coat type, skin conditions, or love for water and mud. While their affectionate personalities make up for it, some breeds require more grooming and care to manage their scent. If you’re thinking of welcoming a particularly aromatic pup into your life, understanding the grooming needs of these stinky yet lovable dogs is key to keeping things fresh.
Basset Hound
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Basset Hounds are known for their adorable droopy faces and long ears, but their scent can be less than endearing. Thanks to their oily skin, they have a natural musk that tends to linger. The oils on their coats help keep their skin healthy and contribute to that signature hound odor. Additionally, their long ears are prone to trapping moisture, which can cause infections or yeast build-up, further adding to the smell. Regular grooming, ear cleaning, and baths are necessary to keep the Basset Hound’s aroma in check, but their loyal, loving nature makes it worth the effort.
Bloodhound
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Bloodhounds are legendary for their incredible sense of smell, but they’re also known for the strong scent they emit themselves. These dogs have an oily coat that produces a distinct, musky odor, especially if they’re out-tracking through the woods or splashing in puddles. Bloodhounds also drool, leaving a wet, musty smell on their fur. Their long, floppy ears can harbor bacteria and yeast, contributing to the aroma. However, their unmatched tracking abilities and sweet personalities make them worth the extra grooming care.
English Bulldog
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English Bulldogs are beloved for their squishy faces and stocky builds, but they are also one of the stinkier breeds. Their short, wrinkled skin folds trap moisture, bacteria, and food particles, leading to an unpleasant smell if not cleaned regularly. Bulldogs are also prone to flatulence, which can fill a room with their unique brand of aroma. Despite their odor-prone nature, these affectionate and loyal dogs are favorites for many families. Regular cleaning of their skin folds and a high-quality diet can help minimize their smell, but their loveable personalities make them hard to resist.
Cocker Spaniel
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With their long, luxurious ears and soft coats, Cocker Spaniels may look like they belong on a magazine cover, but their smell can tell a different story. Their thick, oily coats are prone to trapping moisture, dirt, and bacteria, leading to a strong odor if not groomed regularly. Cocker Spaniels are also susceptible to ear infections due to their long, droopy ears, which can contribute to their smell. Despite the extra grooming required to keep them fresh, their cheerful and loving nature makes them wonderful companions, especially for families and children.
Saint Bernard
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Saint Bernards are gentle giants with a heart as big as their bodies, but they’re also known for their strong doggy odor. Their thick, double coat can trap moisture and dirt, especially if they spend time outdoors. These big dogs are notorious for drooling, and their slobber can leave behind a musty smell on their coat and around the house. Regular grooming, brushing, and baths are essential to keep a Saint Bernard smelling fresh. While they may leave behind a scent, their affectionate, protective nature makes them well worth the extra grooming.
Beagle
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Beagles are friendly, energetic dogs with a strong sense of smell, and they also come with a bit of a smell themselves. Their short coats produce oils that can give off a musky odor, especially if they spend time outdoors. Beagles are natural explorers, and their love of running through the mud and water can add to their overall aroma. Regular baths and grooming can help keep their smell at bay, but their joyful, playful nature makes them great companions for active families.
Labrador Retriever
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Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds worldwide, known for their friendly, outgoing personalities. However, they also have a reputation for being a bit smelly, especially if they love water as much as most Labs do. Their thick, water-repellent double coats can trap moisture, leading to that classic “wet dog” smell. Additionally, Labs are prone to skin conditions and ear infections, which can add to their odor. Despite their sometimes funky scent, their loyalty, intelligence, and loving nature make them a favorite among dog lovers.
Newfoundland
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Newfoundlands are giant, fluffy dogs with a love for water and mud, making them prone to developing a strong odor. Their thick, water-resistant coats are designed to keep them warm in cold water, but they also trap moisture and dirt, leading to that signature Newfie smell. These gentle giants are also known for their drooling, which can add to their overall aroma. Regular grooming and baths are necessary to keep a Newfoundland smelling fresh, but their sweet, gentle demeanor makes them a perfect companion for families.
Boxer
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Boxers are energetic, playful dogs with a short coat, but they still manage to develop a strong odor. Their skin produces oils that can give off a musky smell, and they are prone to flatulence, which can fill a room in no time. Boxers also have folds around their face that can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to an unpleasant smell if not cleaned regularly. Despite their odor-prone tendencies, Boxers are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and love for their families, making them well worth the extra grooming.
Shar Pei
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The Shar Pei is known for its deeply wrinkled skin and unique appearance, but those wrinkles can also trap moisture, bacteria, and dirt, leading to a strong odor. Shar Peis require regular cleaning of their skin folds to prevent infections and odors from developing. They are also prone to skin conditions that can cause them to smell if not properly cared for. Despite their tendency to stink, Shar Peis are loyal and protective dogs that form strong bonds with their owners. With proper grooming and care, their odor can be managed, and their affectionate nature will shine through.
Dachshund
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Dachshunds may be small, but their smell can pack a punch. These long-bodied dogs have a tendency to develop a strong odor, especially if they spend time digging and exploring outdoors. Their skin produces oils that can give them a musky smell, and they are prone to dental issues, which can add to their overall aroma. Regular baths, dental care, and grooming can help keep a Dachshund smelling fresh. Despite their smell, Dachshunds are beloved for their playful, spunky personalities and their strong bond with their families.
Great Pyrenees
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The Great Pyrenees is a majestic breed with a thick, fluffy coat that is designed to protect them from harsh weather conditions. However, that coat can also trap moisture, dirt, and oils, leading to a strong odor. Great Pyrenees are known for their calm, protective nature, but they require regular grooming to keep their coat clean and fresh. Their large size and thick fur mean that when they get wet or dirty, the smell can linger. Despite the extra grooming, their loyalty and gentle temperament make them excellent companions.
Pekingese
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Pekingese dogs may be small, but their long, luxurious coats can trap dirt, oils, and moisture, leading to a noticeable odor. These dogs require regular grooming to keep their coats clean and smelling fresh. Pekingese are also prone to dental issues, which can contribute to their overall smell. Despite their tendency to stink, Pekingese are known for their affectionate and loyal nature, making them excellent lap dogs and companions for those willing to put in the extra grooming effort.
Coonhound
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Coonhounds are known for their incredible tracking abilities, but their love of outdoor adventures often leaves them with a strong odor. Their short coats produce oils that can give them a musky smell, and their long ears are prone to trapping moisture, leading to infections and odors. Regular baths and ear cleaning are necessary to keep a Coonhound smelling fresh, but their friendly and loyal nature makes them great companions for active families who enjoy outdoor activities.
Chihuahua
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Chihuahuas may be tiny, but they can have a big odor if not properly cared for. Their skin produces oils that can give them a musky smell, and they are prone to dental issues, which can contribute to their overall odor. Regular baths, grooming, and dental care are essential to keeping a Chihuahua smelling fresh. Despite their sometimes stinky tendencies, Chihuahuas are known for their bold personalities and strong attachment to their owners, making them popular companions for those who want a small but spirited dog.
Mastiff
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Mastiffs are massive dogs with equally massive personalities, but they also come with a noticeable doggy odor. Their thick, wrinkled skin can trap dirt and bacteria, leading to a strong smell if not cleaned regularly. Mastiffs are also known to drool, which can add to their overall odor. Regular baths, wiping down their wrinkles, and keeping their coat clean can help manage the smell. Despite their tendency to be a bit stinky, Mastiffs are gentle giants known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them wonderful companions for those who can handle their size and scent.
Springer Spaniel
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Springer Spaniels are known for their energy, love of water, and friendly personalities. However, their love of outdoor adventures often results in a strong doggy smell. Their long, water-resistant coats can trap moisture and dirt, leading to that signature dog smell, especially after a romp in the woods or a swim in a pond. Additionally, their ears are prone to infections if not cleaned regularly, contributing to their overall aroma. Despite the smell, Springer Spaniels are incredibly loving and loyal, making them worth the extra grooming and cleaning efforts.
The Stink Stops Here: Freshen Up, Furry Friends
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While these dog breeds may come with a bit more odor than others, their loyal and loving nature more than makes up for it. Even the stinkiest dogs can smell fresh with regular grooming, ear cleaning, and a good diet. Whether it’s their oily skin, love of water, or natural musk, these breeds prove that extra care goes a long way in keeping your home smelling great. After all, no matter how much they smell, the love and joy they bring are worth every bath and brush!
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