At any given time, dogs have some level of bacteria and fungi on their skin. “When your dog’s paws have a bacteria called Pseudomonas and Proteus, they can give off a yeasty odor that smells similar to
,” says the American Kennel Club’s Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Jerry Klein, DVM.
Your dog probably has a scent on any given day, and it might not smell particularly fresh.
Perhaps they have rolled around on something decaying in your yard, making them smell like a trash can. Perhaps they simply ran through your sprinkler, filling your house with that all-too-familiar wet dog smell.
But unpleasant odors are not limited to your dog’s fur. Ever taken a whiff of their paws?.
Your dog may have what are known as “Frito feet” if the smell of your favorite corn chip variety, such as Fritos, can be detected on its paws.
It’s not a sign that your dog just devoured a ton of Fritos, so don’t worry. Here are some common dog odors, what they actually mean, and some tips for preventing dog odor.
When to worry
Normally, your dog’s immune system maintains healthy levels of microbes and pathogens.
But sometimes, “when you get an overgrowth of one over the other, thats when they become opportunistic and create infection,” says Dr. Joya Griffin, a veterinary dermatologist at Animal Dermatology Clinic – Louisville.
If your dog’s skin barrier is damaged because of allergies or an autoimmune condition, or if the bacteria gets into the skin through a scratch or wound, some of the same microbes that cause odors can also cause infections.
If your dog stinks and also exhibits any of the following signs, it may be time to take them to the vet:
The most important thing is to always have your family veterinarian take a look if something doesn’t smell or look right. Or, if the issue is more persistent and not improving, you might consider scheduling a dermatologist exam,” Griffin advises.
The short and simple explanation for why your dog’s feet smell like Fritos Every day, our dogs traverse a variety of surfaces, and they typically collect naturally occurring bacteria on their paw pads. When combined with grooming saliva and regular paw pad sweat, two types of bacteria called Pseudomonas and Proteus commonly produce the smell of corn chips.
Please call us if you notice your pet biting or chewing at their feet, belly, or groin. Additionally, keep an eye out for any redness or irritation, and contact us right away if you detect a corn chip odor coming from their ears because that could be a sign of an infection.
If you’re anything like us, you enjoy cuddling and petting your dog. According to studies, doing this improves both our health and our relationship with our dog. Additionally, if you regularly approach your dog close enough, you might smell something peculiar coming from his feet.
Some business owners compare it to the smell of Fritos or corn chips. Schertz Animal Hospital explores the perplexing and odd smelling feet of your dog and answers the question of why they smell like fritos.
Regularly washing your dog’s feet with a mild, pet-approved shampoo will help to lessen the odor of corn chips. Dry completely, paying close attention to the spaces in between your toes. Additionally, trim any long hairs in between the toes. If your toenails are too long, you should also clip them while you’re at it.
Why Do Some Dogs’ Feet Smell Like Fritos?
The bacteria that live on some dogs’ feet are responsible for the odor, according to Dr Wooten says. “Proteus and pseudomonas [bacteria] are thought to be part of the ‘normal flora’ on dogs’ skin, but they can also be the source of the odor.” ”.
She continues by saying that while it’s normal for some dogs’ feet to smell like yeasty “corn chips,” it’s also normal if your dog’s feet don’t. It is not a cause for concern unless your dog is exhibiting symptoms of a skin condition, the expert advises.
FAQ
Do all dogs feet smell like Fritos?
Two kinds of bacteria, proteus and pseudomonas, are to blame for your dog’s paws smelling like corn chips, say veterinarians. Since they are accumulated from walking around throughout the day, they are completely normal and present on the feet of all dogs.
How do I stop my dogs feet from smelling like corn chips?
Regularly washing your dog’s feet with a mild, pet-approved shampoo will help to lessen the odor of corn chips. Dry completely, paying close attention to the spaces in between your toes. Additionally, trim any long hairs in between the toes. If your toenails are too long, you should also clip them while you’re at it.
Why does my dog smell like a Frito?
Your dog’s feet may occasionally smell like Fritos. This is caused by the skin microbiome, a community of bacteria, fungi, and yeast that normally coexists in harmony on your dog’s skin. Your dog may smell if certain unpleasant microbes overpopulate and grow at times.
Is Frito feet bad for dog’s?
Frito feet are typically caused by bacteria and yeast that are not harmful to your pet, but if the smell becomes overpowering or repulsive, there may be an underlying health issue that needs to be addressed. For pets with allergies or weak immune systems, bacterial or yeast overgrowth can result in serious issues.