Why Do Pugs Smell [See 10 Reasons]

Why do pugs smell? Let’s find out together… Have you ever wondered why pugs have that unique, distinct smell? It’s not a bad smell per se, but it’s definitely noticeable.

Maybe you own a pug and have noticed that even after grooming and bathing them, they still have that signature scent. Well, wonder no more, because we’ve got the answer for you!

In this post, we’ll delve into the science behind why pugs emit that particular odor and what you can do to minimize it.

Why Do Pugs Smell

Pugs have a natural odor like all dogs, but their wrinkles and skin folds are the most common source of bad smells, sweat and dirt can accumulate in these areas, leading to a bad smell.

However, if the smell is particularly strong, there may be an underlying cause, such as an infection.

Regular grooming and proper hygiene can help reduce the odor, but if the smell persists, it’s best to see a vet.

Reasons why your pug might smell

The following are some common reasons why your pug might smell:

1. Poor Hygiene and Bathing

Pugs require routine grooming to stay clean and fresh, just like humans do. Poor hygiene habits may be to blame if your pug starts to smell.

Establish a regular bathing schedule using a gentle dog shampoo that won’t irritate their delicate skin to resolve this.

To completely get rid of shampoo, be sure to rinse well. Regular brushing of your pug’s coat will also help to remove dirt, dead hair, and mats, which can house bacteria that cause odors. Attempt to have a tidy, well-groomed pug!

2. Ear Infections

Pugs’ cute, floppy ears are susceptible to infections. Ear odors that are unpleasant are frequently signs of an infection or a wax buildup. Check your pug’s ears frequently for any indications of redness, swelling, or discharge.

Use an ear cleaner that your veterinarian recommends to remove any debris from your pet’s ears. After cleaning your pug ears, don’t forget to dry them completely to avoid moisture becoming a bacterial haven.

It’s time to seek veterinary care if the odor persists or your pug exhibits signs of discomfort like scratching or head shaking.

3. Skin Fold Infections

Pugs have adorable wrinkles, but those folds can also serve as a haven for bacteria, which can produce foul odors. Regularly look for any indications of redness, inflammation, or discharge in your pug’s skin folds.

If you experience these signs, you probably have a skin fold infection. Use a soft cloth or wipes made specifically for dogs to gently clean the folds, making sure to get into all the crevices.

To avoid moisture buildup, be sure to completely dry the area after cleaning. Consult your veterinarian for the best course of action if the infection continues.

4. Dental Issues

Bad breath is not just a human issue; pugs are also susceptible to it! Breath odor is often a result of poor oral hygiene.

The causes may include dental problems like tartar buildup, gum disease, or infected teeth. Start by introducing a consistent dental care routine, using a toothbrush and toothpaste made especially for canines.

You can get advice on proper brushing methods from your veterinarian. To keep your pug’s mouth healthy and breath fresh, routine professional dental cleanings might also be required.

5. Anal Gland Problems

Yes, you read it right – pugs have anal glands! These tiny glands can become impacted or infected, resulting in a distinct odor.

If you notice your pug scooting on the floor, excessively licking their rear end, or displaying signs of discomfort, it’s likely time to address their anal glands.

However, expressing the anal glands can be tricky, so it’s best to leave this task to a professional groomer or your veterinarian. They have the expertise to handle it safely and hygienically.

6. Yeast or Bacterial Infections

Your pug may have an offensive odor if there is an overgrowth of bacteria or yeast on the skin. Watch out for any indications of redness, itching, flaking, or excessive scratching.

Your veterinarian might suggest medicated shampoos, topical remedies, or even oral medications to treat these infections.

Make sure your pug’s living space is clean and dry in addition to the recommended treatment, as moisture can exacerbate these conditions. Your pug will smell better once more if you take care of the source of the odor.

7. Diet and Digestive Issues

Believe it or not, what your pug eats can contribute to their body odor. A poor diet or digestive problems can result in smelly gas and overall body odor.

Consult your veterinarian to ensure your pug is on a balanced and suitable diet. They can recommend high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs.

Additionally, incorporating probiotics into their diet can promote a healthy digestive system, potentially reducing odor-related issues. Your pug’s tummy will thank you!

Learn more about why dog farts smell so bad.

8. Allergies

Pugs may develop skin irritations, itching, and a distinct odor as a result of allergies, whether brought on by certain foods or environmental factors.

It’s essential to recognize and treat the underlying allergen. With the help of your veterinarian, identify potential causes and consider the best course of action.

Antihistamines for symptom management, hypoallergenic diets to omit allergenic ingredients, or even allergy shots for long-term relief are some examples of this.

Your pug will smell good and feel good about themselves if you can control their allergies.

9. Urinary Tract Infections

Your pug may have a urinary tract infection (UTI) if his urine is strong or has an unpleasant smell.

You should take your pug to the vet if you notice that they are urinating more frequently, are showing signs of discomfort, or have urine that is an unusual color.

They will run tests to determine the UTI’s cause and recommend the proper antibiotics.

Encourage your pug to drink more water to keep their urinary system healthy and help prevent future UTIs.

10. Overall Health Concerns

Persistent or unusually strong odors can be indicative of underlying health issues, such as skin infections, metabolic disorders, or hormonal imbalances.

If you’ve addressed all the above factors and your pug still smells bad, consult your veterinarian.

They can perform a thorough examination and run necessary tests to identify and treat any health-related causes.

Ways to remove pug smell

Here are some common ways to remove the pug smell:

1. Wash your pug with dog shampoo and water.
2. Use a vinegar-water solution to clean your dog’s coat.
3. You can use a pet odor eliminator spray.
4. Use a natural odor eliminator such as cedar oil or lavender oil

How to make a pug smell good

Here are some common ways to make your pug smell good:

Use medicated anti-fungal wipes: These wipes contain ingredients like chlorhexidine and ketoconazole, which can help eliminate bad odors.

Clean their skin folds: Pugs have wrinkles and folds on their skin that can trap sweat and dirt, leading to unpleasant smells. Regularly clean these areas with antibacterial wipes or give your pug a half-bath.

Change diapers regularly: If you use diapers for your pug, make sure to change them every four hours to prevent infections and bad odors.

Bathe your pug at least once a week: Regular baths are essential to keep your pug smelling fresh. Pay extra attention to their wrinkly folds, snout, and paws.

Brush your pug often: Brushing your pug’s coat helps remove dirt and debris that can contribute to unpleasant smells. It also helps distribute natural oils and keeps their fur clean.

Use canine spritzes: Spritzing your pug with a great-smelling canine spritz can help mask any lingering odors and leave them smelling pleasant.

Clean their ears: Pugs are prone to ear infections, which can cause bad smells. Clean their ears every two weeks or as needed to prevent buildup and infections.

Take care of their oral health: Bad breath can contribute to overall body odor. Regularly brush your pug’s teeth and address any dental problems to keep their breath fresh.

Wash their bedding and toys: Regularly washing your pug’s blankets and toys help eliminate bacteria and odors that can transfer to their fur

Learn more about making your dog smell good.

Ways to prevent pugs from smelling

Here are some common ways to prevent pugs from smelling:

1. Regular grooming: Regular grooming can help prevent pugs from smelling. It involves brushing their coat to remove loose hair and dirt, cleaning their ears to remove wax buildup, trimming their nails, and cleaning their faces and wrinkles to remove dirt and moisture.
2. Dental hygiene: Dental hygiene is essential in preventing bad breath in pugs. Regular brushing and dental checkups can help prevent tooth decay and other dental issues that can cause bad breath.
3. Bathing: Bathing is necessary to keep pugs clean and fresh. However, it is best not to over-bathe them as it can strip their coat of natural oils and cause skin irritation. Bathing once a month or every six weeks is usually enough.
4. Keep their environment clean: It’s essential to keep your pug’s environment clean. This includes washing their bedding, cleaning their crate, and vacuuming the house regularly to remove pet hair and dander.
5. Keep them hydrated: It’s important to keep pugs hydrated as dehydration can contribute to bad breath. Ensure that they have access to clean drinking water at all times.
6. Balanced Diet: A balanced diet can help prevent skin infections and dental issues that can cause bad breath and odor. Ensure that your pug’s diet includes essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals.
7. Exercise: Regular exercise is essential in keeping pugs healthy and preventing obesity. It helps improve blood circulation, which can prevent skin infections and bad breath.
8. Spaying or neutering: Marking is common in dogs that are not spayed or neutered. If you’re not planning to breed or show your pug, consider altering them, as it can help prevent marking and other unwanted behaviors.
9. Regular Vet Check-ups: Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help identify and treat any health issues that may cause bad odor. It’s essential to keep up with their vaccinations and ensure that they are free of parasites such as fleas and ticks.

Related Questions

Why do pugs have a distinct smell?

Pugs tend to emit a “musky odor” that is unique to their breed. This smell stems from the oils that their skin produces in conjunction with their thick double coat which tends to hold onto dirt, sweat, and debris. Regular baths and grooming can help to minimize the smell.

Can the pug’s diet affect their smell?

Yes, a pug’s diet is a critical factor that can influence their body odor. Pugs who eat high-protein or high-fat diets tend to have a stronger odor since their pores secrete more oils, sweat, and scents. A well-balanced diet that consists of whole foods like meat, fruits, and vegetables can help mitigate the smell.

Can allergies be a cause of the pug’s smell?

Yes, pugs, like any other dog, can develop skin allergies that can exacerbate their natural odor. These allergies often present as itchy skin, redness, and irritation, causing the dog to scratch themselves frequently and emit a more powerful smell. If you suspect your pug may be experiencing allergies, consider taking them to the vet for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Can pugs have dental issues that cause odors?

Absolutely! Pugs are known to have dental problems, like many other breeds, which can result in bad breath and contribute to an overall unpleasant smell. You may want to consider brushing your pug’s teeth daily or providing dental chews to help reduce bad odors.

Can pugs have infections that cause a smell?

Yes, skin infections caused by bacteria or yeast can lead to a foul odor in pugs. Common signs of infection include flaky skin, hot spots, and an overall smelly coat. Consult with your veterinarian if you suspect an infection so they can prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Can pugs spend too much time outside and accumulate odors?

Yes, pugs who spend a lot of time outside, particularly rolling around in dirt or grass, can develop stronger odors. This effect can be compounded during summer months when they sweat more and potentially come in contact with more allergens. Regular baths and grooming can help

Read more: 11 Common Pug Sick Symptoms.

Conclusion

So there you have it – pugs may be adorable, but they have a unique odor that can catch you off guard! Don’t fret though, as we’ve explored today, this odor is completely normal and nothing to be concerned about.

Pugs are simply different from other dogs and require a bit more TLC when it comes to keeping them clean and fresh-smelling.

With proper grooming and care, you can ensure that your pug will live a happy, healthy, and sweet-smelling life!