Dogs love to roll around in the dirt (and anything that remotely resembles dirt), but unfortunately, this can often lead to an unpleasant smell.
It can be time-consuming and frustrating to constantly bathe your dog only to have them roll in the mud the next day!
But how can you make your dog smell nice without having to bathe or shampoo them every time?
It’s simple, there are many natural ways to mask the smell of your dog such as a quick rinse after every walk, using a dry shampoo, washing and wiping muddy paws, and dog perfume (it really does work).
If you’re looking for a way to make your dog smell good without a bath or shampoo, try using some of these groomers’ tips!
Natural Ways To Make Your Dog Smells Good
Bathing is the most effective approach to making your dog smell good, but we do not recommend doing it every day.
It’s possible that bathing too frequently will disrupt the balance of natural oils on your dog’s skin and coat, resulting in dry and scaly skin.
But without one, keeping your dog smelling nice might be difficult.
The wet dog smell is a result of muddy footprints, rough tumbles in the garden, and wet days. Here are some helpful hints for eliminating the unpleasant odor from your dog for longer:
Brush Your Dog Regularly
Regularly brushing your pet’s coat not only keeps it matt and tangle-free but also removes mud and debris.
If your dog’s coat isn’t clogged with dirt, dust, or mud, it should smell significantly better. Regularly cleaning your pet can help to keep them healthy.
Keep Their Teeth Clean
Another way to keep your dog smelling great is by regularly cleaning its teeth.
Gum disease and tartar can lead to bad breath, so keeping up with a dental routine can be crucial in maintaining your dog’s fresh smell.

Wipe Their Paws After Walks
One of the best ways to keep your dog smelling nice is by wiping its paws after every walk.
This will help to remove any dirt, mud, or salt that may have gotten stuck to their paws during the walk.
Clean Their Ears
Another often-forgotten area that can lead to a smelly dog is their ears.
Ears can easily become infected if not cleaned properly, so be sure to clean them regularly with an ear cleaner made specifically for dogs.
Wash Your Dog’s Bedding Regularly
Washing your dog’s bedding regularly is another way to help make your dog smell good.
Dogs spend a lot of time in their beds, so it’s important to keep them clean.
Don’t forget to vacuum and wash any areas where your dog spends a lot of time, such as their crate or kennel.
Clean The Coat With Dry Shampoo
If your dog is starting to smell a little bit but you don’t have time for a full bath, try using a dry-type shampoo.
Dry shampoo can help to absorb excess oil and dirt from your dog’s coat without water.
There are many of these shampoos available specifically for dogs that can help to keep them smelling fresh in between baths.
Freshen Up With Dog Perfume
Yes, dog perfume really does exist! And it can help to make your dog smell nice without having to give them a bath.
There are many different types of dog perfumes available that can help to mask any unwanted smells.
Choose one that smells pleasant to you and that won’t irritate your skin.
A Quick Rinse After Every Walk
One of the best ways to keep your dog smelling fresh is by giving them a quick rinse after every walk.
This will help to remove any dirt, mud, or salt that may have gotten stuck to their fur during the walk.
All you need is a bucket of clean water and a towel.
Soak his fur in the water, and then use the towel to rub it down. Be sure to avoid their face and eyes.
A quick rinse after every walk is an easy way to keep your dog smelling fresh without having to give them a full bath.
Wash Muddy Paws After Walks
Another way to keep your dog smelling nice is by washing its muddy paws after every walk.
This will help to remove any dirt, mud, or salt that may have gotten stuck to their paws during the walk.
All you need is a bucket of clean water and a towel. Soak your dog’s paws in the water, and then use the towel to rub them down.

Eliminate Odours With Deodorising Spray
There are many different types of deodorising sprays available that can help to eliminate odours from your dog.
Choose one that is safe to use on your dog’s fur and that won’t irritate their skin.
Many deodorising sprays are scented, so you can also choose one that smells pleasant to you.
Baking Soda
Baking soda can be used as a natural deodoriser for your dog.
Simply sprinkle some baking soda on your dog’s coat and brush it through to help absorb any unwanted smells.
Leave the baking soda in their fur for 10-15 minutes before brushing it out.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice can also be used as a natural deodoriser for your dog.
Simply mix equal parts of water and lemon juice, and then rub it onto your dog’s coat.
Leave the lemon juice in their fur for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it out.
These are just a few of the many ways that you can make your dog smell nice without a bath or shampoo.
Change Your Dogs Diet
One often-overlooked cause of a smelly dog is their diet.
If your dog’s food is not nutritionally balanced, it can lead to an unpleasant smell.
A poor diet, as well as cheap, low-quality dog food, might be a cause of gas and flatulence. High-quality natural dog food will support your pet’s general health.
Probiotics for dogs may also help to support a healthy digestive system, improve nutrient absorption, and maintain the gut’s delicate equilibrium of beneficial microorganisms.
Read Here: Best Dog Food Guide For Health Issues
Use Pet Wipes
Pet wipes are a quick and easy way to clean your dog without giving them a full bath.
Pet wipes can be used to remove dirt, mud, or salt from your dog’s fur. They can also be used to clean your dog’s paws after a walk.
Pet wipes are a convenient way to keep your dog clean and fresh smelling between baths.
Clean The Anal Glands of The Dog
The anal glands are located on either side of your dog’s anus. These glands produce a foul-smelling substance that is used to mark their territory.
If these glands become full, they can leak or even burst, which can be quite messy. You can have your groomer empty these glands for you
Anal gland expression should only be done by a professional groomer or veterinarian, as it can be harmful to your dog if not done properly.
Read Here: Best Dog Food for Anal Glands Problems
What Products Do Dog Groomers Use (According to Experts)
Professional dog groomers have a few tricks up their sleeves when it comes to keeping dogs smelling fresh and clean.
Here are some of the products that they recommend:
Tear-free shampoo
Tear-free dog shampoo is a must for any dog groomer. This type of shampoo will help to avoid irritating your dog’s eyes during the bath. It contains a formula that is designed to be gentle on the eyes and skin.
Our favourite tear-free dog shampoo is the Biosilk Tear Free Dog Shampoo. This dog shampoo is made with natural ingredients and is safe for all dogs. It is also hypoallergenic, which makes it a great choice for dogs with sensitive skin.

Medicated shampoos
Medicated shampoos are often used by dog groomers to treat skin conditions such as allergies, hot spots, and infections.
These shampoos contain ingredients that can help to soothe your pet’s skin and provide relief from itchiness.
Try out the brand new Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiparasitic and Antiseborrheic Medicated Shampoo. This shampoo is designed to provide relief from a variety of skin conditions. It contains ingredients that will help to soothe their skin to leave them with a healthy and clean coat.
Whitening shampoos
If you have a white dog, you may want to consider using a whitening shampoo. Whitening shampoos can help to brighten your dog’s coat and make them look their best.
Our favourite whitening shampoo is the Burt’s Bees Brightening Shampoo. This shampoo is made with natural ingredients and is safe for all dogs. It will leave your dog’s coat looking brighter and feeling softer.
Deodorizing shampoos
Deodorizing shampoos are designed to help remove any unpleasant odours from your dog’s fur. These shampoos can be used on dogs of all breeds and sizes.
Our favourite deodorizing shampoo is the Earthbath All Natural Deodorizing Shampoo. This shampoo is made with natural ingredients and is safe for all dogs. It will leave your dog’s coat smelling fresh and clean.
Conditioners
Conditioners are not a necessity, but they can be helpful in keeping your dog’s fur looking healthy and shiny.
If you choose to use a conditioner, make sure to select one that is specifically designed for dogs. Human conditioners can be too harsh for your dog’s skin and fur.
Our favourite conditioner for dogs is the Burt’s Bees Conditioner. This conditioner is made with natural ingredients and is safe for all dogs. It will leave your dog’s coat looking healthy and shiny.
Oatmeal shampoo
Oatmeal shampoo is a popular choice for dog groomers. This type of shampoo is designed to be gentle and soothing on your dog’s skin.
If your dog has sensitive skin, you may want to consider using oatmeal shampoo. Oatmeal shampoos can help to relieve itchiness and dryness.
Our favourite oatmeal shampoo is the Burt’s Bees Oatmeal Shampoo. This shampoo is made with natural ingredients and is safe for all dogs. It will leave your dog’s coat looking healthy and feeling soft.
Medicated dips
Medicated dips are often used by dog groomers to treat skin conditions such as allergies, hot spots, and infections.
These dips contain ingredients that can help to soothe your dog’s skin and provide relief from itchiness.
Our favourite medicated dip is the Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial Pet Shampoo. This shampoo is designed to provide relief from a variety of skin conditions. It contains ingredients that will help to soothe your dog’s skin and leave their coat looking healthy.
Dry shampoos
These shampoos are a great alternative to traditional wet baths. They are quick and easy to use, and they can help to keep your dog’s coat looking clean and smelling fresh.
Our favourite shampoo for dogs is the Burt’s Bees Dry Shampoo. This shampoo is made with natural ingredients and is safe for all dogs. It will leave your dog’s coat looking clean and smelling fresh.
Waterless shampoos
Waterless shampoos are another great alternative to traditional wet baths. They are quick and easy to use, and they can help to keep your dog’s coat looking clean and smelling fresh.
Our favourite waterless shampoo for dogs is the Burt’s Bees Waterless Shampoo.
This shampoo is made with natural ingredients and is safe for all dogs. It will leave your dog’s coat looking clean and smelling fresh.
Grooming wipes
Grooming wipes are a convenient way to keep your dog’s coat clean and smelling fresh between baths. These wipes can be used on all parts of your dog’s body, including the face, paws, and underside.
Our favourite grooming wipes for dogs are the Burt’s Bees Grooming Wipes. These wipes are made with natural ingredients and are safe for all dogs. They will leave your dog’s coat looking clean and smelling fresh.
Why Does My Dog Smell So Bad?
If your dog smells bad, it could be due to a number of reasons. Let dive in and explore some of the common causes:
Diet
What your dog eats can play a big role in how they smell. If your dog’s diet is high in fat, it may have an oily coat that smells bad. Dogs that eat a lot of fish can also develop a fishy smell.
Anal sac smell
The anal sacs are two small glands located near your dog’s anus. These glands produce a foul-smelling liquid that is used to mark territory. If your dog’s anal sacs are full, they may leak this liquid, which can cause an unpleasant smell.

Skin conditions
Skin conditions such as allergies, hot spots, and infections can cause your dog to smell bad.
These skin problems can cause itchy skin and uncomfortable for your dog and may require treatment from a veterinarian.
Dental problems
Bad breath is a common sign of dental problems in dogs. If your dog’s teeth are not properly cared for, they can develop plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to gum disease. Gum disease can cause your dog to have stinky breath.
Lack of proper cleaning
If you do not regularly brush your dog’s teeth or bathe them, they may develop an unpleasant odour. It is important to maintain a regular grooming routine to help keep your dog smelling fresh and clean.
Urinary tract infection
Urinary tract infections can cause your dog to urinate more frequently and have strong-smelling urine. If you notice that your dog’s urine smells bad, it is important to take them to the vet for a checkup.
Gas attack
Sometimes, your dog may just have bad gas. If your dog has been eating a lot of different things or has been drinking water from dirty puddles, it may develop an unpleasant-smelling gas.
Ear Infection
Ear infections are a common cause of bad smells in dogs. If your dogs have smelly ears, it is important to take them to the vet for a checkup.
Be sure to check your dog’s ear regularly for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge.
While there are many reasons why your dog may smell bad, the good news is that there are also many ways to help them smell fresh and clean.
By using the tips above, you can help your dog to smell nice without giving them a bath or shampoo.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a way to make your dog smell nice without a bath or shampoo, try using some of these groomers’ tips!
Grooming wipes, waterless shampoos, and dental hygiene are all great ways to help keep your dog smelling fresh.
If your dog’s bad smell is due to an infection or other medical condition, be sure to take them to the vet for a checkup.
Do you have any tips for keeping your dog smelling fresh and clean? Let us know in the comments below!

For over a decade, Adrienne has been a freelance content writer and blogger who’s passion lies in anything related to dogs. Growing up, dogs were a very important part of family life in the Hardwick household. Now, Adrienne is the proud parent to two Swedish Vallhunds called Moose and Pumpkin.