How to Make Your Dog Smell Better—Without Overbathing

Let’s be honest—no matter how much we love our pups, sometimes they stink. While a good bath can do wonders, overbathing your dog can dry out their skin, irritate their coat, and even cause more odor in the long run. So, what’s a dog parent to do?

Good news: there are plenty of ways to keep your dog smelling fresh without constant baths. Whether your pup loves muddy hikes, beach swims, or simply rolling in mysterious backyard treasures, we’ve got you covered with top dog care tips, grooming hacks, and clever tricks to keep things squeaky clean—minus the tub.

1. Use Dog Grooming Wipes for Quick Cleanups

When it comes to dog odor control, wipes are a dog parent’s best friend. Squishface Wrinkle Wipes are handy for daily wipe-downs, especially if your dog has wrinkles, folds, or sensitive skin. Originally created for bulldogs and flat-faced breeds, these wipes are gentle, fragrance-free, and ideal for:

• Post-walk cleanups

• After a swim session

• Quick refreshes between baths

They remove dirt, debris, and bacteria while soothing irritated areas, making them perfect for face wrinkles, tear stains, paws, and tail pockets. Bonus: there are no harsh chemicals or overpowering perfumes that can often be found in other dog wipes on the market.

2. Focus on Regular Brushing

Regular dog brushing isn’t just for looks—it’s key to reducing odor. Brushing removes dead fur, dirt, and dander, which can all trap bad smells. Plus, brushing distributes natural oils across your dog’s coat, promoting skin health and that soft, clean look.

Here’s a quick guide:

• Use a deshedding tool for heavy shedders like Huskies or Labs.

• Use a slicker brush for curly coats (looking at you, Poodles!).

• Go for a bristle brush for short-haired breeds like Beagles, Bulldogs, or Pit Bulls.

This is one of the simplest dog care tips you can implement—aim for 2–3 times a week, or daily during shedding seasons.

3. Don’t Forget the Ears!

Smelly ears are a major culprit when it comes to lingering dog odor. Instead of using messy liquids, opt for Squishface Ear Wipes. These convenient finger sheath wipes make it easy to clean inside your dog’s ears safely and effectively.

They gently remove dirt, wax, and debris without dripping, stinging, or overwhelming your pup. Just slip one on your finger and wipe out those ears—no rinsing required! These are perfect for regular maintenance and are especially helpful after outdoor play or swimming.

Ear hygiene is often overlooked in everyday dog care, but keeping this area clean makes a huge difference in your dog’s overall freshness.

4. Wash Their Bedding Regularly

You wouldn’t sleep in the same sheets for months, right? Dogs spend a lot of time on their beds, blankets, and favorite couches—and those fabrics soak up all the smells.

To keep your house (and your dog) smelling fresher:

• Wash all dog bedding weekly with a gentle, pet-safe detergent

• Vacuum your dog's sleeping area to remove hair and dander

• Use odor-neutralizing sprays safe for pets between washes

5. Check Their Diet

Sometimes, persistent doggy odor is an inside job. Low-quality food, allergies, or digestive issues can lead to bad breath, skin odor, or yeasty smells. Make sure your pup is eating a balanced, high-quality dog food and drinking plenty of water.

Pro tip: Adding a teaspoon of plain yogurt (if your pup tolerates dairy) or a dog-specific probiotic supplement can help with gut health and reduce odor from the inside out.

6. Freshen Up With a Dog Deodorizer

When you need a quick refresh, a dog deodorizing spray is a great option. Look for sprays with ingredients like coconut oil, colloidal oil, or oatmeal extract—and always avoid artificial fragrances that can irritate sensitive skin.

Spritz lightly between baths, especially after playtime, hikes, or visits to the dog park.

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The Bottom Line:

Keeping your dog smelling great doesn’t have to involve constant trips to the tub. With tools like Squishface Wrinkle Wipes and Squishface Ear Wipes, smart grooming habits, and a little proactive dog care, you can tackle doggy odor head-on—while keeping your pup’s skin and coat healthy and happy.

Whether you're new to pet parenting or a seasoned pro, these dog care tips will help your furry friend stay fresh, cuddly, and clean—without overdoing the bath time.

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