Usually normal
Why Does My Dog Smell Like Wet Towel / Mildewy?
The wet towel smell is caused by bacteria breaking down oils on the coat when wet. Every wet dog smells this way to some degree.
When does it become a concern?
Normal after swimming or bathing. A strong mildew smell that lingers for days after drying indicates inadequate drying or yeast on the coat.
Home Treatment
- ✓Dry coat thoroughly with a towel and blow dryer on low heat
- ✓Use a dog-specific shampoo to control coat bacteria
- ✓Brush out the undercoat to improve air circulation
Vet visit warranted when:
Mildewy smell persists for more than 3 days after drying, or is paired with skin redness
Recommended Products
Furminator Deshedding Shampoo
shampoo
Andis Pro-Animal Dryer
grooming-tool
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why does my dog smell like a wet towel?
- Water activates bacterial byproducts already on the coat. The volatile compounds that produce the wet dog smell are the same ones in a mildewy towel.
- How do I prevent the wet towel smell after bathing my dog?
- Thorough drying is the key. Use a towel to remove bulk water, then a blow dryer on low heat to dry the undercoat completely.
- Why does my dog smell worse after a bath?
- Water releases the volatile compounds bound to the coat. As the coat dries, they evaporate more rapidly, making the smell temporarily stronger.
- Does the wet towel smell mean my dog is dirty?
- No. It's a normal biological reaction to moisture. Even a clean dog will smell this way when wet.
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