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Why Does My Golden Retriever Smell? Causes, Fixes and When It's a Vet Problem
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A bit of ādog smellā is normal, especially after a swim. But if your goldenās smell is strong, sour, musty or doesnāt go away after a bath, something is probably going on. Here are the common causes and what to do.
Common causes
| Cause | Smell and clues | What helps |
|---|---|---|
| Damp undercoat | Wet-dog smell that lingers | Dry thoroughly after swimming or baths. Brush out loose undercoat |
| Dirty or infected ears | Sour or yeasty smell, head shaking, redness, discharge | See ear infections and your vet |
| Skin infection or allergies | Musty or rancid smell, itching, red or greasy skin | See allergies and itchy skin and your vet |
| Hot spots | Sharp odor, moist raw patch | Hot spots need vet care |
| Dental disease | Bad breath, tartar, red gums | Dental care and a vet exam |
| Anal glands | Fishy smell, scooting | Ask your vet or groomer |
| Dirty bedding or collar | Smell comes back soon after a bath | Wash everything weekly |
| Rolling in things | Obvious | Bathe, and teach āleave itā |
| Gas or digestive issues | Smelly gas, loose stool | Talk to your vet about diet |
VCA Animal Hospitals notes that ear infections often come with odor, redness and discharge, and that certain breeds with allergies are more prone to them.
What to try at home
- Brush regularly. Removing loose undercoat helps air circulation. See brush guide.
- Dry completely after swimming or bathing.
- Wash bedding, blankets and collars weekly. Vacuum furniture.
- Wipe paws and belly after muddy walks.
- Bathe when needed, but not too often. See how often to bathe.
- Check ears weekly for redness, discharge or odor.
- Brush teeth regularly.
What to avoid
- Perfumes and deodorizing sprays that mask but donāt fix the cause
- Frequent baths that dry the skin and can make odor worse
- Human products and home remedies without vet approval
- Ignoring odor that keeps returning
When to see the vet
Call your vet if you notice:
- A strong smell that returns soon after a bath
- Redness, scabs, hair loss, greasy skin or constant scratching
- Head shaking or ear discharge
- Bad breath with tartar, drooling or dropping food
- Scooting or licking the rear end
- Changes in appetite, thirst or energy
Odor is a symptom, and finding the cause is the fix.
Prevent smells
- Keep up with grooming and ear checks
- Keep your golden lean. Skin folds and heavy coats trap moisture and smell in overweight dogs. See weight guide.
- Use a vet-approved flea and tick preventive
- Schedule regular vet exams including dental checks
Related
Frequently asked questions
Why does my golden retriever smell so bad even after a bath?
A damp undercoat, skin or ear infection, dental disease or allergies can all cause lingering odor. If it returns within days of a bath, see your vet.
Do golden retrievers naturally smell?
Dogs have a natural scent, and a thick, oily, water-repellent coat holds on to smells, especially when wet. But a strong, sour or musty odor is not normal and should be checked.
What does a yeast infection smell like?
Often musty or sweet, like corn chips or old bread, and is often found in ears, paws or skin folds. A vet can diagnose and treat it.
How do I get rid of the dog smell in my house?
Wash bedding weekly, vacuum often, brush your dog and treat any medical causes. Don't over-bathe.
Can diet cause odor?
Some dogs get gassy or have skin or ear problems linked to food allergies. Talk to your vet before changing diet.
A quick note: this guide is general information from published sources, written by dog lovers, not a veterinarian. Your own vet knows your dog's history, so check with them before changing food, exercise or treatment.
Sources
Keep reading
How Often Should You Bathe a Golden Retriever? Schedule, Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
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Golden Retriever Ear Infections: Signs, Causes, Treatment and Prevention
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