American Bullies are popular dog breeds that are not known to be smelly, but this doesn’t mean they cannot give you a foul smell. If your American Bully is smelling bad, and you cannot understand the reason behind it, no worries—we’re here to explain.
Despite it feeling like their smell could knock you over, there are some common reasons for it. Issues like poor oral hygiene, bacterial infections, tummy problems, and even their diet can all contribute to that strong smell.
But the good news is, there are ways to fix it! You can ensure your furry friend smells as fresh as a bunch of roses.
In this article, we will discuss the reasons and also provide you with the solutions to keep your dog smelling great.
So, Let’s Kill the Stink!!
Contents
Is it Normal For an American Bully To Smell Bad?
As already discussed American bully is not a stinky breed but, it is important to understand that occasional bad smells can be normal, especially if your dog spends a lot of time outdoors.
However, if your bully is smelling bad constantly then it is not normal and you should look into it.
There could be various reasons that can cause your dog to give a bad smell, from a poor diet and skin infections to dental or ear problems. (We will discuss in-depth below).
Regularly giving your dog baths, grooming them, and providing a balanced diet can help reduce these odors.
But if the smell doesn’t go away, it’s best to consult with a vet to figure out the underlying issue.
Reasons Why Your American Bully Smells
Skin Infections
Skin infection can be a reason behind the bad smell of your American bully. These infections are usually caused by bacteria or yeast that like warm, moist places, like the folds of your dog’s skin.
You might see redness, swelling, and maybe even some oozing along with the smell.
Your dog might also seem uncomfortable, like they’re scratching or licking the area a lot.
Don’t ignore these signs, as skin infections can become serious if you don’t treat them. Get your dog to the vet right away for the right diagnosis and treatment.
Ear Infections
Ear infections are common in this breed because their floppy ears don’t let much air in, creating a wet place where bacteria and yeast can grow.
When these bacteria grow a lot, they can cause an ear infection.
If you notice a strong, bad smell, along with signs like redness, swelling, and your pet scratching their ears more than usual, it’s likely your dog has an ear infection.
Cleaning your dog’s ears regularly and getting check-ups can help stop these infections and keep your American Bully smelling good
Dental Issues
Like us, dogs can have dental problems if you don’t take care of their oral hygiene.
Always watch your Bully’s teeth and gums. If you see any changes like bad breath, discoloration, bleeding, or swelling then your bully is suffering from dental problems.
If you don’t treat it, dental issues can lead to painful infections and even losing teeth. Regular brushing and professional cleanings can prevent these problems. Also, think about giving your dog dental chews to keep their mouth clean.
Remember, Dental problems aren’t just about the smell – they’re serious.
Anal Gland Problems
If your bully is starting to smell really bad, it might be because of anal gland problems. These glands, found on either side of your pet’s anus, make a smelly fluid that usually comes out when your dog poops.
But sometimes, these glands can get impacted or infected, causing a stinky smell. You’ll see your dog dragging their bottom on the ground, licking the area, or seeming uncomfortable when they poop.
Blocked anal glands need a vet’s help. They’ll either squeeze out the fluid by hand or, in serious cases, give antibiotics.
Allergies
While you may think your American Bully’s smell is just part of their natural doggy odour, it’s possible that allergies could be the real culprit.
Allergies can cause your Bully to produce an unpleasant smell due to excessive scratching or licking, leading to skin infections that produce a foul odour.
Common allergens for dogs include dust mites, pollens, and certain foods. If your Bully is allergic, they may also exhibit symptoms such as redness, swelling, and hot spots on the skin, alongside the unusual smell.
Regular vet checks can determine if your Bully has allergies and suggest appropriate treatments. Remember, managing allergies isn’t just about eliminating the smell, but ensuring your Bully’s overall well-being.
Poor Grooming Habits
Poor grooming habits are the most common reason leading to the dog’s bad odor. pet owners simply don’t take proper care eventually leading to these smelling problems.
Poor grooming habits like not brushing their hair, not bathing them or bathing them too frequently, not checking or cleaning their ears and teeth, etc.
All these poor grooming practices are a recipe for creating a smelly pooch.
Certain foods can cause gas, bad breath, or even skin odors in dogs. A diet high in processed foods, for instance, can lead to foul-smelling gas.
Food with low-quality proteins can cause a dog’s skin to emit a strong odor. If your dog’s breath smells, it could be due to an unhealthy diet or dental disease.
Always provide your bully with a balanced diet, rich in high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and fibers. After all, good health starts with good nutrition.
Wet or Dirty Fur
If your American Bully always smells bad, it might be because of wet or dirty fur. This breed has a short, thick coat that can easily trap dirt and moisture, making it stink if not kept clean.
If your Bully likes to play in water or mud a lot, they’re more likely to have this problem. Wet fur provides a damp place where bacteria can grow, causing a musty smell.
At the same time, dirt and grime can stick to the fur, creating a different, but still unpleasant, odor.
Clean your American Bully’s coat often to get rid of dirt and make sure it’s completely dry to prevent bacteria from growing.
Gassiness
Farting is a natural process, but if your American Bully is farting excessively and it is quite stinky, then it might be the result of a poor diet or poor digestion.
Giving your bully foods with lots of carbs, fats, or proteins they’re not used to can make them really gassy.
That’s because these things can ferment in their stomach and make a bad smell when they come out. Also, if your Bully eats too fast, they might swallow air, which can make even more gas.
If your American Bully’s gas comes with other problems like throwing up, having diarrhea, or not wanting to eat, it’s important to see a vet.
There might be a bigger health issue, like a stomach problem, causing all the gas.
How To Keep an American Bully Smelling Good?
You can keep your American Bully smelling good by practicing a few simple hygiene routines.
Regular Bathing
Giving your dog a bath is a great way to keep them clean and stop them from getting a stinky smell. But be careful not to bathe them too often because it can take away the natural oils from their skin, making it dry and irritated.
Try to give your dog a bath every four to six weeks. Make sure to use a gentle shampoo made for dogs.
After the bath, dry your dog properly, especially in the wrinkles and folds, to avoid a bad smell caused by trapped moisture.
Also, think about using a leave-in conditioner made for dogs. It will help keep their coat healthy and make your dog smell clean and fresh.
Brush Their Coat
Keeping your American Bully clean involves more than just giving them a bath. Regularly brushing their coat is another important part of keeping them healthy.
Brushing every day helps get rid of dead hair, dander, and dirt that could make your dog smell bad. It also spreads the natural oils on their skin, making their coat look shinier and healthier.
Use a bristle brush, starting from the head and moving towards the tail. Pay extra attention to areas with thick fur, and be gentle to avoid hurting your dog.
After brushing, a quick rubdown with a grooming mitt or cloth can add a final touch by removing any loose hair that’s left.
Remember, a clean and well-brushed coat not only looks good but also smells good, contributing to your American Bully’s overall well-being.
Maintain Oral Hygiene
Oral issues can lead to bad breath, which in turn can result in an unpleasant dog smell. Therefore, it is important to take proper care of your bully’s oral health.
Start with a dog-approved toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush. Brush your dog’s teeth at least once or twice a week, and ensure that you clean the back teeth properly, as they are more prone to developing tartar.
Additionally, try to add dental chews to your pet’s routine as they can help reduce plaque and freshen breath.
Lastly, also visit your vet on a regular basis for a dental health checkup to prevent your dog from experiencing any types of oral health issues.
Clean Ears Regularly
Keeping your American Bully’s ears clean is another crucial step to keep them smelling fresh. Regular ear cleaning prevents the buildup of wax and debris, which can cause unpleasant odors and even lead to infections.
To do this, you’ll need a good quality dog ear cleaning solution and soft cotton balls.
Gently wipe the inside of your dog’s ears, being careful not to go too deep and risk damaging the ear canal.
If you notice any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or foul odor, consult your vet immediately.
Monitor Anal Glands
You should also keep an eye on your bully’s anal glands as part of your smell management routine. If these glands become impacted or infected, they can create a very unpleasant odor.
Regular exercise helps stimulate natural gland release, while a proper diet ensures a healthy stool consistency that aids in emptying the glands. If you notice a fishy smell or see your dog scooting on the ground, it’s time for intervention.
Some owners feel comfortable expressing their dog’s anal glands at home, but if you’re not, get a professional groomer or vet to do it. Ensuring these glands are clean and healthy will aid in keeping your American Bully smelling good.
Regular check-ups with the vet are also recommended.
Choose a Balanced Diet
A balanced diet plays a crucial role in keeping your American Bully’s smell under control. Feeding your pet high-quality, nutrient-dense food can significantly impact their overall health and odor.
Avoid cheap dog foods that are loaded with fillers like corn or soy, as these can lead to digestion issues, which can cause foul smells.
Opt for food rich in proteins and healthy fats, and low in carbohydrates. These can promote a healthier skin and coat, reducing the likelihood of unpleasant odors.
Moreover, including probiotics and fiber in your Bully’s diet can support a healthy gut, further reducing bad smells.
Clean Your American Bully’s Toys and Bedding
To keep your American Bully smelling fresh, make sure to regularly clean their toys and bedding.
Fabric toys and bedding can be washed in the washing machine with a pet-friendly detergent.
For hard toys, clean them with a mix of warm water and mild dish soap, and remember to disinfect them at least once a month.
You can use a pet-safe disinfectant or a solution of one part bleach to ten parts water.
If items are heavily soiled or worn-out, it’s a good idea to replace them regularly. This thorough cleaning routine will not only reduce odors but also contribute to your pet’s overall health and happiness.
Clean The Paws and Face-
Make sure to clean the paws every day after your dog comes back from a walk or being outdoors. Use pet wipes to thoroughly clean the paws, especially between the toes where it tends to get the dirtiest.
It is also important to clean the face daily, especially the wrinkles where bacteria and yeast can grow. Use pet wipes to wipe the face of your American Bully, including the snout, properly.
Vet checkup
Apart from exercise and grooming, regular vet checkups are key to keeping your American Bully smelling good. These checkups help catch and treat health issues early, preventing unpleasant odors.
Dental problems, skin infections, and digestive disorders are common causes of bad smells, but the vet can suggest solutions. This might include dietary changes, dental cleanings, or special shampoos.
The vet may also recommend preventive measures like vaccinations and flea or tick treatments to stop diseases that could lead to bad odors.
How To Remove Unpleasant Dog Odors In Your Home
When your American Bully leaves unwanted scents around your home, there are several effective strategies you can employ to freshen your surroundings.
Clean the House
To make your American Bully smell better, clean your home properly to get rid of any lingering dog odors.
Start by vacuuming all carpets, rugs, and furniture where your dog hangs out. Don’t forget to clean under furniture and cushions.
Then, mop the hard floors using a pet-friendly cleaner that gets rid of odors. Make sure to wash your dog’s bedding regularly because it can trap a lot of smells.
Use Air purifier
An air purifier can help get rid of the lingering smell from your American Bully in the house.
Here’s how it works: Air purifiers filter the air, catching tiny particles that cause bad smells. Make sure to pick one with activated carbon filters because they’re really good at soaking up pet odors.
Where you put the air purifier matters too. Put it in places where your dog hangs out the most for the best results.
Don’t forget to clean and change the filters regularly as the manufacturer suggests. This keeps the air purifier working at its best all the time.
Ventilate the house
During the day, open your windows and doors to let fresh air into your home. This helps get rid of pet smells from your American Bully.
It’s like giving your house a breath of fresh air. Make sure to do this in the areas where your pet spends a lot of time, like where it sleeps or plays.
If the weather is bad, use fans to keep the air moving. Just be careful about safety when you leave windows or doors open.
The goal is to replace the old, smelly air with new, clean air. It’s a simple and cheap way to keep your home smelling nice.
Essential oils
Another effective strategy to combat pet odors is using essential oils. These potent plant extracts can help neutralize unpleasant smells, leaving your space smelling fresh and clean.
Essential oils like lavender, peppermint, and lemon have natural deodorizing properties.
To use them, add a few drops to a spray bottle filled with water. Lightly mist your home, focusing on areas where your dog spends most of its time. You can also add a few drops to your diffuser for a continuous fresh scent.
However, it’s crucial to remember that not all essential oils are safe for dogs. Always research or consult with a vet before introducing a new scent.
Pet-Friendy cleaners
Switching to pet-friendly cleaners is another effective step you can take to eliminate lingering dog odors from your home.
These cleaners, formulated specifically with pets in mind, are designed to break down the enzymes that cause the unpleasant smells. They’re also safer for your furry friend, reducing the risk of skin irritation or other adverse reactions.
While shopping, look for products labeled as ‘pet-friendly’ or ‘non-toxic.’ You might want to consider cleaners with natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, or citrus extracts.
For carpets and upholstery, use cleaners that penetrate deep into the fabric to thoroughly neutralize odors. Regularly cleaning your dog’s bedding with these products can also help keep your house smelling fresh. It’s a simple change but it makes a big difference in managing odors.
Final Thoughts
Sometimes, American Bullies might smell a bit. To address this issue, most of the time, following good hygiene practices such as proper cleaning and grooming is sufficient to keep your dog fresh throughout the day.
Additionally, don’t hesitate to apply the tips that I have mentioned; they can be very beneficial.
But if your Bully still smells bad and doesn’t get better, it’s a good idea to talk to a vet. There might be a health issue causing the persistent odor.