Why does my dog smell bad even after a bath

Why Your Dog Might Still Smell Bad After a Bath

Here are the most common culprits, along with professional insight and what to do about them:

1. Skin Infections or Allergies

One of the most common reasons dogs smell bad is due to skin infections — often bacterial or yeast-based.

Dr. Karen Campbell, a veterinary dermatologist, explains:

“Yeast overgrowth, particularly Malassezia, gives off a musty or even cheesy smell. It thrives in warm, moist environments — like the folds of your dog’s skin.”

If your dog has:

• A greasy or flaky coat

• Red or irritated skin

• Excessive scratching or licking

• A musty smell that returns quickly after bathing

…it could be a skin infection or allergy. These conditions can be worsened by food sensitivities, fleas, or environmental triggers (like pollen).

What to do:

• Visit your vet for a skin exam

• Use prescribed medicated shampoos (not over-the-counter ones)

• Address any underlying allergies (e.g., food trials, antihistamines, or prescription diets)

2. Anal Gland Issues

If your dog smells like rotting fish, the problem might not be their fur — it might be their rear end.

Dogs have anal glands on either side of their anus that release scent for marking territory. Sometimes, these glands become impacted or infected, leading to a strong, unpleasant odour that no amount of bathing can fix.

Common signs:

• Scooting on the floor

• Excessive licking of the hind area

• A sudden burst of fishy smell

Dr. Patty Khuly, DVM, warns:

“Chronic anal gland issues can become painful and even lead to abscesses. Regular expression by a vet or groomer can help prevent problems.”

What to do:

• Get your vet or groomer to express the glands (don’t DIY unless trained)

• Add fibber to your dog’s diet to help with natural expression (e.g., pumpkin or vet-recommended supplements)

• Rule out infections or allergies that may be causing inflammation

3. Dental Disease

Surprise! That lingering odour might not be from their coat at all. It could be bad breath wafting from your dog’s mouth.

Periodontal disease is incredibly common — affecting up to 80% of dogs over age 3. It leads to:

• Foul breath

• Gum infections

• Plaque build-up and even tooth loss

In some dogs, bacteria from the mouth can mix with saliva and spread odour onto their coat or bedding.

What to do:

• Schedule a dental check-up and cleaning with your vet

• Brush your dog’s teeth regularly (daily is ideal)

• Use dental chews or water additives approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC)

4. Ear Infections

If the smell is coming from your dog’s head, especially accompanied by head shaking or ear scratching, an ear infection might be the cause.

Floppy-eared breeds like Cocker Spaniels, Poodles, and Basset Hounds are especially prone to ear infections due to moisture build-up.

Signs include:

• Smelly, waxy ears

• Redness or discharge

• Head tilting or rubbing ears on furniture

What to do:

• See your vet for proper diagnosis and treatment (often includes topical meds)

• Keep ears dry after baths or swims

• Never use cotton swabs inside the ear canal

5. Inadequate Drying After Baths

Sometimes the cause is simple: trapped moisture.

If your dog isn’t fully dried after a bath — especially in areas like armpits, under the collar, or between skin folds — moisture gets trapped and creates the perfect environment for bacteria or yeast.

What to do:

• Use a clean, absorbent towel and pat-dry thoroughly

• Use a pet-safe blow dryer on a cool setting for thick or long coats

• Ensure they’re fully dry before letting them outside in cold or damp weather

6. Rolling in Smelly Things (Even After You Bathe Them)

Let’s not forget — some dogs just have questionable taste when it comes to what smells good.

If your pup rolls in:

• Dead animals

• Muddy or stagnant water

• Other animal faeces

…you’ll be back to square one, even after a bath.

Some dogs are repeat offenders. Bella has a particular fondness for mystery puddles at the park. 

What to do:

• Supervise off-leash time

• Keep grooming wipes or dry shampoo handy for spot-cleaning

• Teach a strong “leave it” or “come” command to redirect behaviour