While all dogs get smelly from time to time, some dog breeds are just naturally more prone to smelling. Whether it’s oily fur, wrinkled skin, or a penchant for rolling in mud, certain dog breeds give off an especially pungent odor. Lesser-known dog breeds may not be as well known, but they definitely stand out when it comes to smell. From their love of water to their oily skin, these dogs will bring their own unique scent to your home, making them a pleasantly smelly yet lovable companion.
Otterhound
The Otterhound is a rare breed originally bred in England to hunt otters in the water, and their love of water makes them one of the least known smelly dog breeds. Their thick, rough, double coat of fur is designed to repel water, but it can trap moisture and oils, leaving them with a musky odor. Otterhounds have a tendency to jump into any available body of water, clean or dirty, which contributes to their natural odor. Their large, droopy ears also trap moisture, making them more susceptible to ear infections and making their distinctive odor even stronger.
Fauve Basset from Brittany
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a small French olfactory dog known for its incredible tracking abilities. This breed’s keen sense of smell leads them to explore muddy, damp, or dirty environments. This, combined with their dense, coarse fur, leads to a fairly strong odor. The natural oils in their fur help protect them from the harsh outdoor environment, but these oils also contribute to their musky scent. Their adorable looks and affectionate nature make them great pets, but they do tend to accumulate dirt and moisture, which can result in a certain “earthy” scent.
Bedlington Terrier
Known for its sheep-like appearance, the Bedlington Terrier might not immediately be thought of as an odorous breed. However, this unique dog has a curly, woolly coat that requires regular grooming. If not properly groomed and cleaned, the Bedlington’s coat can become oily, trapping moisture and causing an unpleasant odor. Bedlingtons are also prone to skin problems that can cause a distinctive odor if not addressed promptly. Although Bedlingtons are adorable companions, their high grooming requirements can make them a bit of a challenge in terms of odor if not properly groomed.
Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a large dog with loose skin that is known for its loyal and protective nature. One of the main causes of the Neapolitan Mastiff’s distinctive odor are the wide skin folds that trap moisture, dirt, and bacteria. These folds, especially around the face and neck, can develop a strong odor if not washed and dried regularly. In addition to the skin folds, Neapolitan Mastiffs are also known to drool, which further intensifies the overall odor. Although they do have a pungent odor at times, their affectionate and gentle nature makes them a lovable companion for those who don’t mind a little grooming.
Cao de Agua (Portuguese)
The Cao de Agua Portugues (Portuguese Water Dog) is a little-known breed famous for its love of water and working alongside fishermen. Their waterproof, curly coat is designed to repel water, but it also retains moisture, giving them that distinctive “wet dog” smell. They often have a musky odor due to constant exposure to water from swimming and playing in puddles. The natural oils in their fur, combined with their frequent love of water, make this breed one of the smelliest, especially if they are not groomed regularly.
Sussex Spaniel
The Sussex Spaniel is another lesser known breed with a strong smell. This breed was originally developed for hunting in the dense undergrowth of England. Its low-slung body and thick, wavy fur make it ideal for navigating rough terrain. However, its thick fur traps dirt, moisture and natural oils, resulting in a strong odor if not regularly groomed. Additionally, Sussex Spaniels are prone to ear infections due to their long, drooping ears, which can contribute to an overall musty odor. Despite their smell, Sussex Spaniels are affectionate and loyal, making them a lovable, if slightly smelly, companion.
Finnish Spitz
The Finnish Spitz is a beautiful, fox-like dog known for its hunting abilities and loyalty to its family. While its thick, fluffy fur may not seem like the source of a strong odor, Finnish Spitzes have a natural musky odor that can become strong if their fur is not properly cared for. Their dense fur traps dirt, oils and moisture, making the odor particularly strong during rainy periods. Regular grooming and bathing are essential to keep the odor under control. Despite the potential for a strong odor, Finnish Spitzes are lively and loving companions.
Sniffing out the truth about smelly puppies
These lesser known dog breeds each have their own charm and distinctive scent. From the hanging skin folds of the Neapolitan Mastiff to the Portuguese Water Dog’s love of water, each breed’s unique characteristics contribute to their distinctive scent. While regular grooming can help control the odor, it’s a natural part of a dog’s personality. For those who enjoy a bit of musk in exchange for unwavering loyalty and affection, these breeds make perfect companions, bringing love and a special scent to any home.
