As dog owners, we often encounter so many scents associated with our furry friends. While some odours are so recognisable, there's one peculiar scent that has left many pet parents puzzled... The unmistakable smell of popcorn from our dogs' paws. We'll explore this intriguing smell-based situation, shedding some light on where the smell comes from, what causes it, and how you might want to prevent it in this quick blog post. Get ready to uncover the secrets behind your canine's popcorn-scented paws!
Where You Might Find the Smell on Your Dog...
Can you smell popcorn but don’t know where it’s coming from?
The aroma of popcorn that wafts from your dog can be detected in two main places. The most likely place is your dog’s paws! Pick up their paws & give them a sniff if you’re getting a whiff of popcorn. Dogs have also known to have ears that can give off a similar odour, so check underneath & around your dog’s ears to check for the corn-based smell.
We're ready to delve into exactly why this smell might be...
What Causes the Popcorn Smell?
The popcorn-like scent emanating from your dog's paws can be attributed to one main reason or a combination of factors, let's take you through why it might be...
Natural Bacteria
Dogs naturally carry a huge range of bacteria on their paws, which interact with the sweat glands found in their paw pads. The warm environment in & around your dog's paws can be the perfect place for bacteria to grow & develop. The interaction between these bacteria and sweat can result in the release of the bacteria pseudomonas or proteus. While they are completely harmless, they can emit a strong scent resembling corn based snacks or popcorn!
Yeast Overgrowth
Another potential cause of the popcorn-like smell is yeast overgrowth. A dog & their paws provide an ideal environment for yeast to thrive due to their warm and moist nature. If your dog has an underlying yeast infection or an imbalance in their skin's natural flora, it can contribute to the release of odours similar to that of popcorn.
Diet and Nutrition
Surprisingly, a dog's diet can also play a role in the scent of their four paws. Some dog owners have reported a correlation between a diet high in corn-based pet food products and the popcorn-like smell. It's worth considering how your dog's diet may impact their overall body odour & we'll get into how you could make a difference to that smell later in the blog.
We Might Have Another Reason...
Our Popular Popcorn For Dogs
Your dog might have been trying our hugely popular dog-friendly popcorn. Our totally-safe-for-dogs formula means your pooch can enjoy the taste of popcorn at home. If they've got their paws on our low calorie, perfect treat training formula, that might be why your dog is smelling of popcorn!
Do You Want To Prevent The Smell? Here's How
Although the popcorn-like scent may not pose a health concern or physical issue for your dog, you might want to minimise or prevent it altogether. Here are a few things to consider ⤵️
Regular Paw Maintenance
Keeping your dog's paws clean and dry is essential. Regularly inspect their paws for any signs of redness, irritation, or excessive licking, as these may indicate an underlying issue. Gently wipe your dog's paws with a damp cloth after walks or playtime to remove dirt, debris, and potential allergens.
Proper Grooming
Maintaining your dog's coat and overall hygiene is crucial. Regular grooming sessions, including nail trims and brushing, can help prevent excessive bacteria or yeast growth on the paws. Consult with your veterinarian or a professional groomer for advice on appropriate grooming techniques and products.
Dietary Adjustments
Consider evaluating your dog's diet to ensure it provides optimal nutrition. A balanced diet tailored to your dog's specific needs may help promote overall skin and paw health. Discuss any concerns or questions about your dog's diet with a veterinarian professional to determine if adjustments are necessary. If you want to find out for yourself, you could try a new kind of dog food & see if the smells emitting from your canine have changed.
Vet Consultation
If your dog's paw odour is accompanied by persistent discomfort for your dog including; itching, redness, swelling, or discomfort, it is recommended to seek guidance from your vet. These symptoms can indicate an underlying skin condition or allergy that requires professional advice or even treatment.