Dogs are known for their loyalty, cuteness, and sometimes, their smelliness. While all dogs can get a little ripe after a romp in the mud or a swim in the lake, some breeds are notorious for their distinctive odors. Whether it’s their oily coats, love for rolling in mysterious substances, or skin folds that trap all sorts of interesting aromas, these pups can be a bit of a challenge for the sensitive-nosed. Let’s dive into the nasal adventure of the top 15 smelliest dog breeds, starting with the least offensive and ending with the top dog of stink.
15. Poodle
Poodles may be known for their sophisticated haircuts and hypoallergenic fur, but don’t let that fool you. Underneath those curls lies a dog with a penchant for producing some funky smells. Their curly coat can trap moisture and dirt, leading to an unpleasant aroma if not groomed regularly. Moreover, Poodles are prone to ear infections, which can add a delightful layer of eau de wet dog to their scent profile. Regular baths and diligent ear cleaning are essential to keep your Poodle smelling like a daisy.
14. Beagle
Beagles, with their adorable floppy ears and soulful eyes, also come with a distinct hound smell. Their short, dense coat and love for sniffing out every last scent can result in a musty odor. Beagles produce a lot of natural oils, which can lead to that unmistakable doggy smell. Additionally, their ears are prone to infections, adding another olfactory dimension. Regular grooming and ear care can help, but Beagle owners know that a bit of a houndy scent is just part of the package.
13. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are the quintessential family dog, but their love for water and their double coat make them prime candidates for a bit of a stench. Labs have a thick undercoat that can trap moisture and oils, leading to a persistent doggy odor. They also love to roll in anything interesting they find, which doesn’t help matters. Regular baths, ear cleaning, and brushing can help manage the smell, but Lab owners will tell you that their charm more than makes up for the occasional whiff.
12. English Bulldog
English Bulldogs are known for their lovable, wrinkly faces and their less-than-pleasant scent. Those adorable wrinkles can trap moisture, food, and who knows what else, leading to bacterial growth and a strong odor. Bulldogs are also known for their impressive flatulence, which adds another layer to their aromatic profile. Regular cleaning of their skin folds and a careful diet can help keep the smell in check, but Bulldogs are always ready to share their unique bouquet with their families.
11. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are gentle giants, and with great size comes great smell. These dogs have a thick, double coat that can hold onto moisture and dirt, leading to a rather potent doggy odor. They are also prolific droolers, which can add to the overall scent experience. Regular grooming, bathing, and cleaning of their drool zones can help manage their smell, but Saint Bernard owners know that their sweet nature and loyalty far outweigh any olfactory offenses.
10. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, may be small, but they can have a big smell. Their long, silky hair can trap dirt and oils, and they are also prone to dental issues, which can lead to bad breath. Regular grooming, including frequent baths and teeth brushing, is essential to keep a Yorkie smelling fresh. Despite their small size, Yorkies can pack a punch in the smell department if not properly cared for.
9. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are known for their beautiful, flowing coats, but those coats can be a bit of a smell trap. Their floppy ears are prone to infections, and their skin can become oily, leading to a distinct doggy odor. Regular baths and ear cleanings are a must to keep a Cocker Spaniel smelling sweet. These dogs are high-maintenance when it comes to grooming, but their loving nature makes it worth the effort.
8. Bloodhound
Bloodhounds are masters of scent tracking, but they also have a powerful scent of their own. Their loose skin and long ears can trap dirt and moisture, leading to a musty smell. Bloodhounds are also known for their drooling, which can add to their overall aroma. Regular baths and attention to their skin folds and ears are essential to keep a Bloodhound from smelling too ripe. Despite their smell, Bloodhounds are gentle and affectionate companions.
7. Shar Pei
Shar Peis are known for their distinctive wrinkles, which unfortunately can harbor all sorts of smells. Their skin folds can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to infections and a strong odor. Regular cleaning and drying of their skin folds are necessary to keep a Shar Pei smelling fresh. These dogs are loyal and protective, making the extra grooming effort worthwhile.
6. Boxer
Boxers are energetic and playful, but they also have a reputation for being a bit smelly. Their short coats can trap oils and dirt, and they are prone to skin infections. Boxers are also known for their impressive flatulence, which can add to their overall aroma. Regular baths and a healthy diet can help manage a Boxer’s smell, but their playful and loving nature makes them worth it.
5. Dachshund
Dachshunds are known for their long bodies and short legs, but they also have a strong odor. Their skin can become oily if not properly maintained, and they are prone to dental issues, which can lead to bad breath. Regular grooming and teeth brushing are essential for keeping a Dachshund smelling sweet. Despite their smell, Dachshunds are loyal and loving companions.
4. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are known for their droopy ears and sad eyes, but they also have a distinctive smell. Their long ears can trap dirt and moisture, leading to infections and odors. Bassets are also prone to skin infections due to their loose skin and short coats. Regular baths and ear cleanings are necessary to keep a Basset Hound smelling fresh. Despite their smell, Bassets are affectionate and gentle dogs.
3. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are gentle giants with a lot of love to give, but they also come with a strong odor. Their thick, water-resistant coats can trap moisture and oils, leading to a musty smell. Newfoundlands are also prone to drooling, which can add to their overall aroma. Regular grooming and attention to their facial folds are essential to keep a Newfoundland from smelling too ripe. Despite their smell, Newfoundlands are loyal and affectionate companions.
2. Great Dane
Great Danes are known for their size and gentle nature, but they also have a reputation for being smelly. Their short coats can trap oils and dirt, and they are prone to skin infections. Great Danes are also known for their flatulence, which can add to their overall aroma. Regular baths and a healthy diet can help manage a Great Dane’s smell, but their loving nature makes them worth it.
1. Basset Fauve de Bretagne
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a lesser-known breed, but it takes the top spot as the smelliest dog breed. This French hound has a dense, wiry coat that can trap dirt and moisture, leading to a strong odor. They are also prone to skin infections and ear infections, which can add to their overall aroma. Regular grooming and ear cleanings are essential to keep a Basset Fauve de Bretagne from smelling too ripe. Despite their smell, these dogs are loyal and affectionate companions.
Dogs bring joy, companionship, and sometimes a little extra odor into our lives. While some breeds might be smellier than others, proper grooming and care can help manage their scent. No matter how smelly a dog might be, their love and loyalty make it all worth it.
