How to Get Rid of That Wet Dog Smell

If your dog smells like a damp towel that’s been left in the sun too long, you’re not alone. Every dog parent has faced that unmistakable wet dog smell at some point. It’s strong, it’s stubborn, and somehow, it seems to cling to everything, your couch, your car, your soul.

Luckily, getting rid of that dog odour does not need to be a full scale clean up mission. With the right routine, a few smart habits, and some simple dog grooming products, you can keep your pup smelling as fresh as a daisy or at least, not like pond water. The tips below show you how the right dog shampoo, drying, and cleaning can make a big difference.

Why Do Dogs Smell After Getting Wet?

Here’s the science bit, but don’t worry, it’s simple. When your dog’s fur gets wet, the natural oils on their skin mix with tiny microbes that live there. Those microbes release a bunch of smelly compounds that are trapped when the coat is dry, and when water hits, boom, those smells are set free.

Add in some leftover dirt, slobber, and a few mystery smells from their latest adventure, and you’ve got yourself a full blown wet dog situation.

Step 1: Dry Your Dog Properly

The faster you dry your dog, the less time that smell has to settle in.

• Use a towel first. Give your pup a good rub down to get most of the water off.
• Then use a dryer if they’ll let you. A low, cool setting works best.
• Don’t forget the tricky spots. Behind the ears, between the toes, under the collar, those damp areas love to hold onto odours.

If your dog gives you the “I hate this” look, bribe them with treats. It’s not cheating, it’s training.

Step 2: Choose the Right Shampoo

Not all shampoos are created equal. Human shampoos can mess with your dog’s skin pH and actually make odour worse. Always use a dog specific shampoo, ideally one designed for odour control or sensitive skin.

Look for:

• Natural ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, or coconut oil
• pH balanced formulas made for dogs
• No heavy perfumes, they only mask the smell instead of fixing the cause

Check out our Dog Grooming Collection for vet approved shampoos that keep fur clean and fresh without the fake fragrance overload.

Step 3: Keep Their Bedding Clean

There’s no point washing your dog if their bed smells like a wet sock. That smell will transfer straight back to your clean pup faster than they can roll in something gross.

• Wash bedding weekly with pet safe detergent
• Vacuum the area around their bed regularly
• If the bed cover is removable, hang it out in the sun, nature’s best deodoriser

You’ll be surprised how much of that dog smell disappears once the bedding is clean.

Step 4: Brush Often, Yes, Even Short Haired Dogs

Brushing helps spread natural oils evenly and removes dirt and loose fur that can trap odours. It also stops that slightly greasy dog coat feeling that leads to smell build up.

For best results:

• Brush a few times a week
• Use the right brush type for your dog’s coat
• Follow up with a spritz of dog safe deodorising spray if needed

Find brushes, sprays, and grooming tools in our Dog Grooming Collection.

Step 5: Tackle the Source, Ears, Paws, and Mouth

Sometimes the wet dog smell is not just from the fur. Check these sneaky spots:

• Ears: Moisture can lead to yeasty smells or infections. Use a vet approved ear cleaner weekly. See our ear care options.
• Paws: Trapped dirt and sweat between pads can stink up the house. Wipe them after walks.
• Mouth: Bad breath can add to overall odour, so keep up with brushing or chews. Browse our Dog Dental Care collection.

It’s like a mini spa day, minus the cucumber eye masks.

Step 6: Keep Up Regular Grooming

A good grooming routine is the best defence against wet dog smell. Regular baths every 4 to 6 weeks, brushing, and ear cleaning will keep your dog fresh and your house from turning into Eau de Wet Labrador.

If the smell sticks around even after cleaning, check in with your vet. Sometimes skin infections or allergies can cause a lingering odour.

That classic wet dog smell might be part of the pet parent experience, but it does not have to linger. Dry them off properly, wash their bedding, brush often, and use dog specific grooming products that tackle the cause, not just the scent.

With a little routine and the right gear, you’ll have a dog that smells so clean you might actually want them on the couch again.