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13 Dog Breeds Known For Their Strong Smell

13 Dog Breeds Known For Their Strong Smell

Dogs are lovable companions, but some breeds come with their own unique scent. Yup, they are a bit smelly!

This list explores 13 of the stinkiest dog breeds, based on data and expert opinions. Whether it’s due to their fur type, natural oils, or other characteristics, these dogs are known for their distinct aroma.

Discover which breeds made the list and learn more about each one’s quirky charm.

1. Basset Hound

Basset Hound
© Chewy.com

Basset Hounds are known for their adorable droopy ears and soulful eyes, but they also have a reputation for being rather smelly. Their oily skin, which helps protect them from the elements, can produce a strong odor if not regularly groomed.

Their long ears can also trap moisture and debris, contributing to their distinctive scent. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to keep them smelling fresh. Despite their smell, they are charming, gentle, and great with families.

If you’re considering adding a Basset Hound to your household, be prepared for some extra grooming sessions.

With their lovable personality and unique look, they are worth the effort! Enjoy the companionship and embrace the scent as part of their charm. With proper care, their odor can be managed effectively.

2. Beagle

Beagle
© Petful

With their strong sense of smell and hunting instincts, they are also known for their unique scent. Their dense coat and natural oils can produce an odor that requires regular grooming to manage.

Their active lifestyle often leads them into muddy or dirty areas, adding to their distinct aroma. Regular baths and ear cleaning are essential to keep them smelling pleasant.

Despite this, Beagles are affectionate, fun-loving, and fantastic companions.

For those who appreciate adventure and outdoor activities, a Beagle can be a great partner. Their enthusiasm and love for exploration make them delightful, even if they come with a bit of a smell.

Embrace their spirit and manage their hygiene, and you’ll have a loyal friend for life. Remember, their scent is just part of their charm!

3. Bulldog

Bulldog
© The Spruce Pets

Bulldogs are beloved for their wrinkled faces and stocky build, but they also have a reputation for being one of the smellier breeds. Their skin folds can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to a distinctive odor.

Regular cleaning of these folds is necessary to prevent infections and keep them fresh. Despite their smell, Bulldogs are known for their gentle nature and are great companions for families.

They enjoy lounging around and are perfect for those seeking a relaxed pet. With proper hygiene care, their odor can be managed effectively. Just be prepared for a few extra cleaning sessions to keep them smelling pleasant!

4. Bloodhound

Bloodhound
© The Spruce Pets

These pups are famous for their incredible sense of smell, but they also come with a distinctive odor. Their oily skin, which helps them in their tracking abilities, can produce a strong scent if not properly maintained.

With their long ears and loose skin, they require regular grooming and cleaning to keep them smelling fresh. Despite their smell, Bloodhounds are gentle and affectionate companions.

They are perfect for those who appreciate a dog with a unique talent and personality. Their tracking abilities make them a favorite among hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. Remember, their scent is just a part of their charm and character!

5. Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniel
© Gunner Kennels

Cocker Spaniels are admired for their beautiful, silky coats, but they can also be quite smelly. Their long ears and dense fur can trap moisture and odors if not regularly groomed.

Regular baths and ear cleaning are essential to keep them smelling pleasant. Despite their odor, Cocker Spaniels are known for their friendly and playful nature. They make wonderful companions for families and individuals alike.

If you’re considering a Cocker Spaniel, be prepared for regular grooming sessions to maintain their beauty and fragrance.

Their energetic and affectionate demeanor makes them a joy to have around. Embrace their lively spirit and manage their hygiene, and you’ll have a delightful companion who brings joy to your life.

6. Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retriever
© Americaware

The most beloved breed, known for their love of water and playful nature, that can sometimes lead to a distinct smell. Their dense, water-repellent coat can trap odors, especially if they frequent lakes or rivers.

Regular baths and proper drying are crucial to keep them smelling fresh. Despite their odor, Labradors are one of the most beloved breeds, known for their friendly and loyal demeanor.

If you enjoy outdoor activities and water sports, a Labrador can be a perfect companion. Their enthusiasm and love for fun make them delightful, even if they come with a bit of a smell.

7. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terrier
© L’ÉLIANNE dog Blog

With their long and silky coats, Yorkshire Terriers can sometimes develop a noticeable odor if not properly maintained. Their hair can trap oils and dirt, leading to a distinctive smell.

Regular grooming and baths are essential to keep them smelling pleasant. Despite their odor, Yorkies are known for their lively and affectionate nature.

They make wonderful companions for those who appreciate a small, energetic dog. With proper grooming care, their scent can be managed effectively. Just be prepared for a few extra grooming sessions to keep them looking and smelling their best!

8. Pug

Pug
© The Farmer’s Dog

Their skin folds can trap dirt and moisture, leading to an odor if not regularly cleaned.

Despite their smell, Pugs are lovable and entertaining companions. Their playful nature and affectionate demeanor make them a favorite among families.

If you’re considering a Pug, be prepared for some extra cleaning sessions to maintain their hygiene. With proper care, their odor can be effectively managed.

9. Shar Pei

Shar Pei
© Chewy.com

Shar Peis are known for their unique, heavily wrinkled skin, which can contribute to their distinct smell. Their skin folds can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to an odor if not properly maintained.

Regular cleaning and grooming are essential to keep them smelling fresh. Despite their smell, Shar Peis are known for their loyal and independent nature.

They make excellent companions for those who appreciate a distinctive and devoted dog. With proper hygiene care, their odor can be managed effectively.

10. Newfoundland

Newfoundland
© American Natural Premium

These giant, gentle dogs are known for their love of water and thick, dense coats. Their fur can trap odors, especially if they spend time in water or snow.

Regular grooming and proper drying are essential to keep them smelling fresh. Despite this, Newfoundlands are beloved for their sweet and gentle nature. They are great companions for families and those who enjoy outdoor adventures.

11. Saint Bernard

Saint Bernard
© Britannica

Saint Bernards are known for their massive size and gentle nature, but they can also have a strong smell. Their thick, double coat can trap odors, especially if they spend time in wet or muddy conditions.

Regular grooming and proper drying are essential to keep them smelling fresh. Despite their odor, Saint Bernards are beloved for their friendly and protective nature.

12. Mastiff

Mastiff
© The Spruce Pets

Just like other wrinkly dogs, Mastiff’s dense coat and skin folds can trap moisture and odors, leading to a distinctive smell if not properly maintained.

Regular cleaning and grooming are essential to keep them smelling pleasant. Despite their odor, Mastiffs are beloved for their gentle and protective nature.

They make excellent companions for families and those who appreciate a large, calm dog. With proper hygiene care, their scent can be managed effectively.

13. Boxer

Boxer
© Chewy.com

Boxers are energetic and playful dogs known for their athletic build and spirited nature. However, their short coat can sometimes emit a noticeable smell. Regular grooming and cleaning are essential to keep them smelling fresh.

Boxers are beloved for their friendly and loyal demeanor. They make excellent companions for active families and individuals.

If you’re considering a Boxer, be prepared for some energetic playtime and regular grooming sessions. Their enthusiasm and love for fun make them delightful, even if they come with a bit of a smell.