Most dogs have a distinct doggy odour that can often get worse when they have been wet or have been rolling in something stinky.
However, some dogs are less smelly than others and this includes the Cavalier King Charles spaniel.
Cavaliers are not particularly smelly dogs due to their coat type. They have a single layer of fur which doesn’t trap in smells like some other double-coated breeds. However, they do still need to be groomed regularly to prevent their coat from becoming matted and smelly.
Can a Cavalier get smelly?
Of course, Cavaliers, like any other dog breed, can become smelly if they are not looked after properly.
If your Cavalier becomes smelly, it is likely due to one of the following reasons:
They haven’t been bathed in a while and their fur is starting to collect dirt and oil.
Their skin is irritated or they have an infection which is causing them to smell bad.
They have rolled in something stinky.
They have been wet and have that distinct damp dog smell.
How often should I bathe my Cavalier?
It is generally recommended that you bathe your Cavalier every 4-8 weeks, depending on how often they get dirty.
If your dog tends to roll in smelly things or gets particularly dirty when playing outside, then you may need to bathe them more often.
How can I stop my Cavalier from smelling?
There are a few things you can do to help prevent your Cavalier from smelling bad:
Bathe them regularly using a dog shampoo and make sure to rinse all the soap out of their fur.
Keep their coat well-groomed by brushing it regularly and trimming any knots or mats.
Wipe their face and paws with a damp cloth after they have been outside to remove any dirt or mud.
Check their skin regularly for any signs of irritation or infection and get them treated by a vet if necessary.
Cavaliers can develop bad breath
One area where Cavaliers can develop potent odours is that of their breath.
Just like people, the food a Cavalier King Charles spaniel eats can cause their breath to smell.
If your Cavalier’s breath smells particularly bad, it could be a sign that they are not eating a balanced diet or that they have an underlying dental health issue.
Bad breath in Cavaliers is often caused by plaque and tartar build-up on their teeth.
This can be prevented by feeding them a dental-specific diet and brushing their teeth regularly with a dog-safe toothpaste.
If your Cavalier already has bad breath, then they will need to see a vet for a professional teeth cleaning.
An electric toothbrush is great for keeping a Cavalier’s teeth clean
Ear infections can cause smells in Cavaliers
Many of the spaniel breeds can experience ear infections.
This is due to the shape of the ear canal and the long, floppy ear itself which can create an ideal warm and dark environment for bacteria.
As part of the care of your Cavalier you should check his ears regularly to ensure that there is no redness, swelling or discharge and if you spot any of these signs then you should take him to see a vet as he may need treatment.
What if my Cavalier still smells bad after I’ve tried everything?
If you have followed all of the above advice and your Cavalier still smells bad, then it is likely that they have a skin condition or an infection.
In this case, you will need to take them to see a vet so that they can be properly diagnosed and treated.
FAQs
Why does my Cavalier King Charles Spaniel have a distinct odour?
Like all dogs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels can have a natural body odour. However, if the smell is unpleasant or particularly strong, it could be due to issues such as poor diet, inadequate grooming, dental issues, or health problems like skin infections or ear diseases. Always consult a vet if you’re worried about an unusual smell from your pet.
How often should I bathe my Cavalier King Charles Spaniel to control smell?
Cavaliers should generally be bathed every 4 to 6 weeks, or when they get particularly dirty or smelly. Over-bathing can strip the skin of natural oils, leading to dryness and possible skin infections, which could ironically result in a bad smell.
My Cavalier’s breath smells bad. Is this normal?
While dog’s breath isn’t typically fresh, a notably foul smell could indicate dental issues like gum disease or tooth decay. A good dental care routine is essential, and consider checking with your vet for a thorough dental health assessment.
Does the diet of my Cavalier King Charles Spaniel affect its smell?
Absolutely, diet can significantly affect the smell of your dog. Some low-quality dog foods may contribute to bad breath, flatulence, and even smelly skin. A balanced, high-quality diet can promote overall health and reduce unpleasant odours
My Cavalier King Charles Spaniel’s ears smell bad, is there something wrong?
Cavaliers are prone to ear infections due to their long, floppy ears that can trap moisture and create an environment for bacteria and yeast to thrive. If your Cavalier’s ears have an unpleasant odour, they may be suffering from an ear infection and should be examined by a vet as soon as possible.
Final Words
While Cavalier King Charles Spaniels may not be the smelliest dogs around, they can still develop bad smells if they are not properly cared for.
The best way to prevent your Cavalier from smelling bad is to bathe them regularly, keep their coat well-groomed and check their skin and ears for any signs of irritation or infection.
If your Cavalier still smells bad after you’ve tried everything, then it is time to take them to see a vet.
