Dallas Texas

Although we love our dogs, we don't always love how they smell. If you know or suspect your canine companion has picked up some unpleasant odors, Louise Louis of http://www.ToyBreeds.com offers you some tips on how to restore a fragrant home (and dog).

1. Dry him thoroughly after removing the bad odor.

Many dogs love to swim in whatever water is available. Use towels or a hair dryer on the lowest-heat setting until he's totally dry.

If you need more than water to get him clean, try Listerine or other brand of mouthwash. Put some on a washcloth and clean your dog's coat, then rinse or shampoo off. If that isn't working, add some baking soda to the mix.

2. Check for sticky objects in his coat.

Many dogs get feces or other smelly things stuck in their fur. Especially check his paws and around his anus. It's a good idea to shave his hair in a circle around his anus to minimize that possibility.

3. If his breath is bad, give him Greenies.

These are one of the great dog products and available in any pet store. If your dog is otherwise healthy and just has doggy breath, they'll do the trick.

4. Bathe him regularly especially if he spends much time outside.

Use a gentle shampoo made for dogs and wash him about every six weeks or so. Follow with a nice conditioner or make your own using a little baking soda in lukewarm water.

5. Make sure his diet isn't the problem.

Feed him a balanced, premium dog food that smells good to you and make sure his dog food hasn't spoiled or developed mold. Dog food packaging should indicate its expiration date. Always check at the store before you buy it.

6. Check his ears.

Ear infections are a common cause of bad smells. Make sure he doesn't have any discharges, bad odors or strange colors or insects in his ears. Infections need to be treated by a vet right away.

7. Clean your home and his possessions.

Doggy odors can linger in carpets. You must use an enzyme cleaner like Nature's Miracle if he has a potty accident.

To restore a nice smell in your home, sprinkle baking soda on the carpet and leave overnight before vacuuming in the morning. Also you can use a little baking soda with your laundry power when you wash his bedding and his clothing. Many people like to put a little white vinegar in the rinse water.

P.S. Older dogs and unneutered males tend to smell more strongly.

Louise Louis is a certified canine specialist and creator of the popular website on small dogs, http://www.ToyBreeds.com