If you notice an unpleasant odor coming from your favorite cuddling pooch, your first instinct may be to yell “bath time.” However, if your pooch suffers from regular doggie body odor, too many baths may dry out his skin and cause irritation. Homemade doggie cologne helps eliminate the odor and gets him smelling fresh again.
Eliminating Underlying Conditions
Before covering up unpleasant odors with smelly colognes, make sure that the odors your dog is sharing with you are not a sign of an underlying condition that requires treatment. Skin diseases and allergies can cause bacterial or yeast infections in the skin that produce odors. Ear infections, dental problems or abscessed anal sacs may also be culprits. If regular odor is a problem, have your veterinarian rule out and treat these conditions.
Essential Oils
The best ingredients for homemade dog cologne are those that are natural and beneficial for your dog’s skin and coat. Essential oils have pleasant aromas to help eliminate doggie stink while providing aromatherapy, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and even pest repellent qualities. Safe essential oils for your pooch that help eliminate odors include eucalyptus, geranium, lavender, peppermint and sweet orange.
Mixing and Applying Oils
To make your dog cologne, you will need your essential oils, water and a spray bottle. Fill the spray bottle with water and add a few drops of your oil. Shake the bottle immediately before application to mix well. Spray on your dog’s coat and massage in. After the first use, monitor your dog for any possible allergic reaction. While these oils are safe for your pooch, like humans, some dogs have allergic reactions to certain products. If you notice your dog itching or see skin irritation, stop using the cologne and try different oils in your mixture.
Other Alternatives
Another natural ingredient that gets rid of odor -- even after your dog has an encounter with a skunk -- is distilled white vinegar. Combine 1 cup of vinegar with 1 quart of water. If a skunk is the source of your dog’s odor, a stronger solution of half vinegar and half water may be necessary. Pour the mixture into the water bottle and spray on your dog’s coat.
