Let’s face it—dogs are amazing, but some of our furry friends come with a distinct aroma that’s, well, hard to ignore.
Whether it’s that “wet dog” smell that lingers after a bath (ironic, right?) or their natural musk, some breeds are just stinkier than others. But hey, we love them anyway!
From slobbery snouts to wrinkly skin folds that need a little extra TLC, these pups may have a nose-turning reputation, but they more than make up for it with their charm, loyalty, and heart-melting puppy-dog eyes.
In this article, we’re sniffing out the 13 smelliest dog breeds and uncovering the reasons behind their unique aromas.
1. Basset Hound
With their floppy ears, droopy eyes, and adorable waddles, Basset Hounds are hard not to love. But anyone who has one knows that these pups come with a signature scent that’s… unmistakable.
Their long ears, while cute, are practically magnets for dirt, bacteria, and yeast, which can lead to frequent infections and that classic “doggy” smell. On top of that, Bassets have naturally oily skin. While this oil helps protect their skin, it’s also a big contributor to their funk.
These hounds are also low to the ground, so they tend to pick up extra dirt, mud, and debris during their outdoor adventures. To keep your Basset smelling fresh, regular grooming is a must. This includes frequent baths, ear cleanings, and even a wipe-down after walks.
While it’s a bit of work, it’s all worth it for the companionship of this lovable, laid-back breed.
2. Bloodhound
Bloodhounds are legendary for their incredible sense of smell—they can track scents over miles! Ironically, they’re also one of the stinkiest dog breeds, thanks to their oily skin, droopy ears, and loose, wrinkly skin.
The oil on their coat is great for waterproofing and protection during outdoor adventures, but it also gives off a strong smell, especially if they’re not bathed regularly. Their iconic long ears can trap moisture and debris, becoming breeding grounds for bacteria, while their wrinkles can hold dirt and sweat.
Bloodhounds also tend to drool—a lot—which adds to their overall musk. If you’re lucky enough to have one of these lovable detectives, you’ll need to commit to a regular cleaning routine.
Frequent ear checks, baths, and wrinkle cleaning will keep your Bloodhound fresh—or at least as fresh as a Bloodhound can be.
3. Bulldog
Bulldogs are charmers with their wrinkly faces, stocky builds, and waddle-like gait. But owning a Bulldog often means embracing their not-so-charming smell.
Their deep skin folds are adorable but can trap moisture, food particles, and bacteria, leading to unpleasant odors. Bulldogs are also known for their flat faces, which make them prone to drooling—a lot. This drool, when mixed with the bacteria in their skin folds, creates a recipe for stinkiness.
Add in their naturally oily skin, and you’ve got a pup that needs a solid grooming routine. Cleaning their folds daily, wiping their faces after meals, and giving them regular baths are all necessary to keep their smell under control.
While it’s a bit of work, most Bulldog owners will tell you it’s worth it for the love and loyalty these pups provide.
4. Beagle
These dogs are adorable, energetic, and endlessly curious—qualities that make them fantastic companions. But their strong sense of smell comes with a downside: their own distinct doggy odor.
Beagles have naturally oily skin, which produces a stronger scent compared to less oily breeds. They’re also outdoor adventurers at heart, and their love for exploring often leaves them covered in dirt, grass, and whatever else they’ve discovered along the way.
Another factor? Their floppy ears, which can trap moisture and bacteria if not cleaned regularly. While they’re not the stinkiest breed out there, a Beagle’s odor can be noticeable if grooming isn’t kept up.
5. Cocker Spaniel
With their luxurious, flowing coats and big, soulful eyes, Cocker Spaniels are undeniably beautiful. But their beauty comes with a catch: they can get pretty smelly. Those long, floppy ears are one of the biggest culprits.
They trap moisture and dirt, creating the perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to thrive. Additionally, their double-layered coat is prone to matting, which can hold onto dirt, oil, and odors if not brushed and bathed regularly.
Cockers are also prone to skin issues, which can contribute to a lingering smell if left untreated.
Owning a Cocker Spaniel means committing to a diligent grooming routine, including regular ear cleaning, coat brushing, and trips to the groomer.
6. Labrador Retriever
Labradors are America’s favorite family dog, but their love for adventure and the outdoors often leaves them smelling less than fresh. Labs have a dense, water-resistant double coat that’s designed for swimming and outdoor activity.
While this coat is perfect for keeping them warm and dry, it’s also great at trapping dirt, oils, and smells. Labs are also notorious for their love of mud, water, and rolling in questionable substances they find outside.
Even if they’re just lounging indoors, their naturally oily skin can produce a noticeable doggy odor. To keep a Labrador smelling their best, regular brushing and bathing are key. A good bath every few weeks and frequent coat maintenance can help keep the stink at bay.
7. Saint Bernard
Their drool is legendary—it gets everywhere, from their fur to your furniture—and it can quickly become a source of odor if not cleaned up regularly.
Their thick, double coat, designed to keep them warm in cold climates, is another culprit. It traps dirt, moisture, and oils, which can lead to a persistent doggy smell.
Saint Bernards also tend to have wrinkly faces, and like other breeds with folds, these areas need frequent cleaning to prevent bacteria and odor buildup.
Regular grooming, including brushing to remove loose fur and bathing to cleanse their coat, is essential. While they may have a distinctive smell, their gentle and affectionate nature makes them worth every sniff.
8. Shar Pei
With their wrinkly skin and unique look, Shar Peis are undeniably eye-catching—but their folds come with a scent warning. Each wrinkle on a Shar Pei’s body can trap dirt, sweat, and bacteria, leading to a strong, sometimes unpleasant smell.
On top of that, their skin produces natural oils that, while protective, can amplify their odor. Shar Peis are also prone to skin infections if their wrinkles aren’t cleaned and dried properly, which can worsen their scent.
Their grooming routine requires diligence: cleaning and drying their folds daily, regular baths, and keeping an eye out for any signs of irritation or infection. It’s a bit of work, but it helps keep your Shar Pei looking (and smelling) their best.
9. Yorkshire Terrier
Don’t let their small size fool you—Yorkshire Terriers can pack a surprising odor punch. Their silky, human-like hair may seem low-maintenance, but it can trap dirt and oils just like any other coat.
Yorkies are also prone to dental issues, and their bad breath can add to their overall smell. To keep your Yorkie fresh, regular grooming is a must. This includes brushing their coat daily to prevent tangles and matting, giving them baths every couple of weeks, and staying on top of their dental hygiene.
Regular tooth brushing and dental checkups can go a long way in preventing stinky dog breath. Despite their occasional odor, Yorkies are beloved for their feisty personalities and adorable looks, making them a favorite among toy breeds.
10. Dachshund
Dachshunds may be small, but they’re big on personality—and sometimes, on smell. These low-to-the-ground pups are known for their adventurous spirit, which often involves rolling in mud, grass, or other outdoor treasures.
Their long ears can also trap moisture and dirt, leading to potential ear infections and a lingering smell. Additionally, their skin can be prone to oiliness, which contributes to their natural doggy odor.
Keeping a Dachshund smelling fresh involves regular baths, ear cleaning, and wiping down their bellies and legs after outdoor play.
11. Newfoundland
These gentle giants have a knack for smelling, well, giant. Their thick, water-repellent double coat is ideal for swimming and cold weather but is also great at holding onto moisture, dirt, and odors. Add in their size and tendency to drool, and you’ve got a lot of dog—and a lot of smell.
Regular grooming is crucial for keeping a Newfoundland fresh. This includes brushing their coat several times a week to remove loose fur and dirt, giving them baths as needed, and keeping an eye on their skin for any signs of infection.
If you’re up for the grooming commitment, you’ll be rewarded with a loyal, loving companion who is well worth the effort.
12. Boxer
These dogs are bundles of energy and affection, but their short coat and active nature can contribute to a noticeable doggy smell.
While their coat is low-maintenance in terms of brushing, it can still produce natural oils that give off an odor. Boxers are also known for their love of the outdoors, where they can pick up dirt and smells from their adventures.
Their floppy ears are another factor, as they can trap debris and moisture, leading to infections if not cleaned regularly. Keeping a Boxer fresh requires a combination of baths, ear cleaning, and wiping down their coat after outdoor play.
13. Pug
Their wrinkly faces are adorable but require constant maintenance to prevent trapped dirt, moisture, and bacteria from causing infections and smells.
Pugs are also known for their love of food, which can sometimes result in crumbs and drool adding to their scent. Their short coat produces natural oils, which can give them a distinct doggy smell if not regularly groomed.
To keep your Pug smelling sweet, clean their facial folds daily, wipe down their coat, and schedule regular baths. They may be a bit smelly at times, but their quirky, loving nature makes them utterly irresistible.