# Do Dobermans Really Smell More Than Other Dogs? A Veterinarian and Doberman Lover‘s Perspective - Canonical: https://33rdsquare.com/do-dobermans-really-smell-more-than-other-dogs-a-veterinarian-and-doberman-lovers-perspective/ - Published: 2024-03-05 - Author: Savanna Read - Categories: [Dog](https://33rdsquare.com/category/dog/) --- As a veterinarian and lifelong Doberman enthusiast, I‘m often asked by prospective owners if Dobermans are smelly dogs. It‘s a common misconception that this loyal and regal breed is prone to odor issues. In reality, with proper nutrition, grooming and preventive care, Dobermans can be one of the least stinky dog breeds around. Let‘s take a closer look at the Doberman coat, common causes of odor, and how to keep your Dobie smelling fresh and clean. ## The Doberman Coat: A Sleek, Odor-Resistant Jacket One of the reasons Dobermans are often (unfairly) assumed to be smelly is because of their short, close-lying coat. Without the fluff and volume of longer-haired breeds, it‘s easy to imagine that Dobermans lack the "self-cleaning" abilities of other dogs. However, the Doberman‘s single coat is actually very efficient at repelling dirt and odors. Dobermans have what‘s called a "smooth" coat, characterized by short, stiff, and thick hairs that grow close to the skin. This coat type is controlled by just two genes: the furnishings (wire/curly) gene and the length gene. Dobermans are homozygous for the smooth coat, meaning they inherit the gene from both parents. Unlike double-coated breeds like German Shepherds, Labradors, and Golden Retrievers, Dobermans do not have a dense undercoat that sheds heavily. This means they are less prone to developing "doggy odor" from oil and dander building up in the coat. The lack of undercoat also makes Dobermans lower maintenance in the grooming department, though regular brushing and the occasional bath are still necessary for optimal coat and skin health. A 2020 study on dog coat genetics and odor found that dogs with wire or curly coats were more likely to develop unpleasant smells due to higher levels of sebum (skin oils) production. The researchers theorized that the sebum has a harder time dispersing through wire and curly coats, leading to a build-up of stink-causing microbes. In contrast, the smooth coats of breeds like Dobermans, Greyhounds, and Pointers allow for more efficient distribution of natural skin oils. So from a genetic standpoint, Dobermans have the ideal coat type for staying relatively odor-free. But that doesn‘t mean they are immune to developing a stink. Let‘s review some of the most common causes of odor in Dobermans and what you can do to address them. ## Reasons for Doberman Odor and When to See the Vet ### Infections Bacterial and fungal infections are a frequent cause of localized odor in Dobermans, especially in the ears, paws, and skin folds. Breeds with drop ears like Dobermans are more prone to ear infections because the ears trap moisture and wax where microbes can proliferate. According to a 2019 study, up to 86% of dogs with allergic skin disease also have recurrent ear infections. Signs of ear infection include: - Foul, pungent, or sweet odor - Scratching at ears or shaking head - Redness, swelling, or discharge in ear canal - Pain or sensitivity around ears If you suspect your Doberman has an ear infection, make an appointment with your vet right away. Ear infections are painful and can cause permanent damage if left untreated. Your vet can perform a thorough ear exam and prescribe medicated drops or ointments to clear the infection. Yeast and bacterial infections of the paws and skin folds are also common, especially in dogs with allergies. The warm, moist environment between the toes and in skin folds is the perfect breeding ground for opportunistic microbes. Doberman owners should check these areas regularly for signs of infection: - Redness, flaking, or greasy skin - Brown or yellow discharge - Yeasty or musty odor - Excessive licking or chewing at paws Your veterinarian can usually diagnose skin and paw infections with a simple impression smear test. Treatment typically involves medicated wipes, sprays, or shampoos to restore the normal balance of skin microbes. In severe cases, oral antibiotics or antifungals may also be necessary. ### Anal Glands Anal gland issues are another frequent cause of foul odors in Dobermans and all dog breeds. The anal glands are two small sacs located on either side of the anus that produce a pungent, oily substance. Normally this liquid is expressed when the dog defecates, but sometimes the glands can become inflamed, impacted, or infected. Symptoms of anal gland problems include: - Scooting or dragging rear on ground - Excessive licking or biting at anal area - Foul, fishy odor - Swelling or redness around rectum - Difficulty defecating or painful bowel movements If you notice any of these signs, take your Doberman to the vet for an anal gland expression. Impacted glands usually need to be manually emptied by a professional every few weeks until the issue resolves. If there is an infection present, antibiotics and anti-inflammatories may also be prescribed. Some factors that can increase the risk of anal gland problems include: - Obesity - Chronic soft stools or diarrhea - Allergies - Certain anatomical traits Maintaining a healthy weight, feeding a high-fiber diet, and treating any underlying allergies or gastrointestinal issues can help prevent anal gland impactions and infections. ### Dental Disease Dobermans are prone to rapid tartar accumulation and dental disease, which can lead to some seriously smelly breath. In fact, over 80% of dogs have some degree of periodontal disease by the age of 3. Plaque and tartar harbor odor-causing bacteria that can infect the gums and spread systemically. Signs of dental disease include: - Halitosis (bad breath) - Yellow or brown buildup on teeth - Inflamed, bleeding gums - Loose or missing teeth - Excessive drooling - Decreased appetite or difficulty eating The best way to prevent dental disease and stinky breath is with regular toothbrushing. Get your Doberman used to having their teeth brushed from a young age using a dog-safe toothpaste. Dental chews, water additives, and prescription dental diets can also help slow tartar accumulation. Most adult dogs need a professional dental cleaning under anesthesia at least once a year to remove calculus and treat any periodontal disease. Your vet can grade your Doberman‘s dental health and recommend an appropriate cleaning schedule. ### Allergies Dobermans can be prone to environmental and food allergies that lead to secondary skin and ear infections. The excessive scratching, licking, and chewing associated with allergies can also contribute to unpleasant odors. Recurrent ear infections and yeasty paws are often the first sign of allergies in dogs. Other symptoms of allergies include: - Itching, especially at ears, paws, groin, and rectum - Red, scaly patches of skin - Hair loss - Recurrent hot spots - Gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhea Getting to the bottom of allergies can be tricky and usually requires working closely with your veterinarian. A food trial with a novel protein or hydrolyzed diet may be recommended to rule out food sensitivities. Blood and skin tests can help identify environmental allergens. Treatment for allergies often involves a multimodal approach with a combination of therapies: - Hypoallergenic diet - Fatty acid supplementation - Medical shampoos - Antihistamines - Immunomodulatory drugs (e.g. apoquel, cytopoint) - Immunotherapy (allergy shots) Allergies are chronic and usually require lifelong management. However, with the right combination of preventive care and treatment, you can keep your Doberman‘s allergies well controlled. ## Other Causes of Odor Of course, not all Doberman odors are caused by medical issues. Here are some other potential culprits for doggy funk: - Rolling in something smelly – Dogs love to roll in all sorts of nasty stuff, and Dobermans are no exception! A good bath with a deodorizing shampoo is usually enough to get rid of the stink. - Wet coat – That classic wet dog smell is caused by microorganisms that release stinky compounds when the hair is wet. Dry your Doberman thoroughly after baths and trips to the beach to prevent this musty odor. - Poor hygiene – Regular grooming is essential for keeping Doberman odors at bay. Brush your dog several times a week and wipe down the coat with a damp cloth between baths. Don‘t forget to clean the ears, trim the nails, and brush the teeth too! - Flatulence – Some dogs are just gassier than others, often due to diet or eating too quickly. A slow-feeder bowl and a high-quality, easily digestible food can help minimize flaunting. ## A Doberman Breeder and Owner Weighs In To get another perspective on Doberman coat care and odor control, I reached out to Jay Mallory, a Doberman breeder and owner with over 20 years of experience. Here‘s what he had to say: "In my experience, Dobermans are one of the least smelly breeds out there, as long as you keep up with basic grooming. Their short coat is very easy to maintain compared to longer haired breeds. I recommend brushing a few times a week with a rubber curry comb to remove any dead hair and distribute the skin‘s natural oils. For baths, I like to use a mild aloe and oatmeal shampoo to avoid drying out the skin. I usually bathe my dogs every 4-8 weeks, unless they‘ve rolled in something stinky. The key is to dry the coat and ears thoroughly after each bath to prevent any odors or infections from developing. Diet also plays a big role in coat and skin health. I feed my Dobermans a high-quality kibble with whole meats and limited fillers. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements like fish oil can also help keep the skin and coat in top shape. Of course, every dog is an individual. Some of my Dobermans hardly ever need a bath, while others tend to get a bit greasier and require more frequent washing. It‘s all about getting to know your dog and finding a grooming routine that works for you both. The most important thing is to work with your vet if you notice any new or persistent odors. In Dobermans, that usually means checking the ears, paws, skin folds, and anal glands for signs of infection." ## Final Thoughts As a veterinarian and Doberman devotee, I can confidently say that this noble breed is no more prone to odor than any other short-coated dog. In fact, their sleek coat and moderate grooming needs make them one of the more low-maintenance breeds in the smelly dog department. With that being said, Dobermans can still develop odor issues from time to time, usually due to an underlying infection, allergy, or hygiene issue. Staying on top of regular grooming, dental care, parasite control, and veterinary check-ups is key to keeping your Doberman healthy and odor-free. As a Doberman owner myself, I know firsthand how rewarding it is to share your life with this intelligent and devoted breed. By being proactive about preventive care and knowing what signs to look out for, you can ensure your Doberman stays sweet-smelling for years to come. Trust your nose – if something smells off with your dog, don‘t hesitate to consult with your vet. With a little TLC and some good old-fashioned elbow grease, there‘s no reason why your Doberman can‘t be the best-smelling dog on the block. So go ahead and give your loyal companion a good sniff – just don‘t forget to boop that elegant snoot while you‘re at it! --- Source: [Do Dobermans Really Smell More Than Other Dogs? A Veterinarian and Doberman Lover‘s Perspective](https://33rdsquare.com/do-dobermans-really-smell-more-than-other-dogs-a-veterinarian-and-doberman-lovers-perspective/)