Should You Put Cologne On Your Dog?

The topic of using cologne on dogs has been a subject of discussion among dog owners and fragrance enthusiasts. While some people find it amusing to spray their dogs with cologne or perfume, others raise concerns about the potential harm it can cause to the dog's health and well-being. Dog colognes and perfumes have been available on the market for about 20 years, catering to owners who want their dogs to smell pleasant. However, it is important to consider the potential negative impacts, such as skin irritation, allergic reactions, and interference with the dog's sense of smell. Opinions vary, with some specialists stating that moderate use of dog-safe fragrances is harmless, while others advise against it, recommending that dogs should simply smell like dogs.

Human perfume can be harmful to dogs

While some specialists claim that perfumes and colognes do not cause any harm to dogs, others disagree. The powerful sense of smell in dogs, which is around 40 times stronger than a human's, means that strong scents can be harmful.

Respiratory Issues

Perfumes and colognes can cause respiratory irritation in dogs. Their super-powered snouts mean that fragrances that are pleasant to humans can be overwhelming to dogs. Scented candles, oil diffusers, and perfumes can all cause respiratory issues in dogs.

Skin Irritation

Dogs are highly susceptible to dermatitis, a skin allergy that causes inflammation, itching, redness, flaking, and hair loss. Fragrances are one of the top triggers of dog dermatitis. The strong perfumes designed for human use can cause skin irritation, and even dermatitis, in dogs.

Behavioural Changes

The strong smell of colognes and perfumes can change a dog's mood and be very annoying to them. This can lead to unhygienic behaviours, such as rolling around in soil or dirt.

Interference with Other Animals

A strong cologne or perfume can also influence a dog's relationship with other animals. The powerful scent can interfere with other animals' ability to identify the dog's gender, for example.

Covering Up Health Issues

Overuse of perfumes and colognes can cover up the odour of some diseases. This means that health issues may go unnoticed and untreated.

Safe Alternatives

There are some safe alternatives to human perfumes and colognes for dogs. There are designer doggy scents available, such as the Eau de Dog range, which offers perfumes designed specifically for dogs. There are also natural, homemade recipes for dog colognes, using ingredients such as vanilla extract, lavender essence, and coconut oil. These natural fragrances will not harm a dog's skin and nose, as they do not contain alcohol.

Dog cologne exists

Dog cologne is a real thing and has been on the market for about 20 years. It is a part of the "humanization process" of dogs that live with people in urban environments. Dog colognes and perfumes are available in a variety of scents and can be purchased from specialist pet stores or online retailers.

The prices of dog colognes and perfumes vary depending on the manufacturer and brand. The most popular bottle size is 150 milliliters and typically costs between $10 and $20. Some designer dog colognes can cost as little as £6 for 250ml, while others may cost up to $27.65 for a 15 oz bottle.

Dog colognes are typically alcohol-free to prevent drying out the dog's skin and causing allergies. They are meant to be applied after bathing the dog, avoiding contact with the dog's nose, eyes, genitals, and areas without fur. It is important to use dog cologne in moderation, as overuse can cover up the odor of certain diseases and may cause irritation or dermatitis.

There are also natural, homemade recipes for dog colognes using ingredients such as warm water, vanilla extract, lavender essence, and coconut oil. These natural fragrances are safe for a dog's skin and nose, providing a fresh and pleasant smell without the use of alcohol.

Dog colognes and perfumes can be a fun way to include your dog in your daily routine and ensure they smell their best during social outings. However, it is important to remember that dogs have a very developed sense of smell, and strong scents can be uncomfortable and annoying for them. Some specialists advise against the use of colognes and perfumes on dogs, recommending proper bathing and grooming habits instead to maintain a pleasant odor.

How to apply dog cologne

There are differing opinions on whether or not to apply cologne to your dog. Some specialists say it doesn't cause any harm to the animal, while others advise against it. If you do decide to use cologne on your dog, there are some important things to keep in mind.

Firstly, always use a cologne that is specifically designed for dogs. These colognes are typically alcohol-free, which is important because alcohol can dry out your dog's skin and cause allergies. Dog colognes also tend to have deodorant properties and smell similar to human perfumes.

When applying cologne to your dog, avoid making contact with sensitive areas such as the nose, eyes, genitals, and any areas without fur. It is recommended to apply cologne right after bathing your dog, as the clean fur will help the scent last longer. However, it is important to note that you should not use cologne on your dog on a daily basis. Once a week or every three to four days is enough.

Additionally, make sure that your dog's ears and mouth are clean, as these areas can contribute to a bad odour. If your dog still smells bad even when these areas are clean, it may indicate an infection, fungus, or other condition that requires veterinary attention.

In conclusion, while the use of dog cologne is controversial, if you choose to use it, follow the guidelines above to ensure the safety and well-being of your dog.

Homemade dog cologne recipes

While there are many dog colognes on the market, you can also make your own at home. Before attempting to cover up any unpleasant odours with cologne, it's important to rule out any underlying conditions that may be causing them. Skin diseases, allergies, ear infections, dental problems, or abscessed anal sacs may be the reason for your dog's odour, so be sure to consult your veterinarian.

If your dog is given the all-clear, you can try making a natural cologne with ingredients that are beneficial for your dog's skin and coat. Essential oils are a great option, as they have pleasant aromas and provide aromatherapy, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and pest repellent qualities. It's important to note that while these oils are generally safe for dogs, some dogs may have allergic reactions, so always monitor your dog after application.

Essential Oil Cologne

• Fill a spray bottle with water.
• Add 8-10 drops of your chosen essential oil. Safe options include eucalyptus, geranium, lavender, peppermint, and sweet orange.
• Shake the bottle to mix the solution.
• Spray onto your dog's coat, avoiding the eyes, ears, and nose, and massage it in.

Vinegar Cologne

• Combine 1 cup of distilled white vinegar or apple cider vinegar with 4 cups of water. For stronger odours, such as those caused by a skunk, use equal parts vinegar and water.
• Pour the mixture into a spray bottle.
• Spray onto your dog's coat, avoiding the eyes, ears, and nose.

In addition to using these colognes on your dog's coat, you can also use them to spritz your dog's bedding to keep it smelling fresh. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about using cologne on your dog.

Negative aspects of using cologne on dogs

While some specialists say that colognes and perfumes do not cause any harm to dogs, others disagree. Here are some of the negative aspects of using cologne on dogs:

Strong Smell

A dog's sense of smell is highly developed, with over 300 million sensory receptors, allowing them to detect scents in concentrations of one part per trillion. A strong cologne can be uncomfortable and even harmful to a dog's sensitive sense of smell. It can also cause annoyance, leading to unhygienic behaviours such as rolling around in the dirt or grass.

Skin Irritation

The use of cologne can cause skin irritation in dogs, including dermatitis. Dogs are highly susceptible to skin allergies, and fragrances are a common trigger. It is important to always do a spot test before applying any new product to your dog's skin to check for potential allergic reactions.

Overuse

Overuse of cologne can irritate a dog's skin and respiratory system. It is recommended that cologne be used sparingly and only when needed, such as after a bath. Bathing your dog regularly and using deodorizing shampoos or shampoos with a pleasant aroma can help reduce the need for cologne.

Masking Health Issues

Excessive use of cologne can mask the odour of certain health issues, making it difficult for owners to detect when their dog may be unwell. It is important to remember that dogs do not need to wear cologne, and it is often the owner who wishes to make their dog smell more pleasant.

Interference with Social Interactions

A strong cologne can interfere with a dog's social interactions with other animals. The smell may make it difficult for other dogs to identify the dog's gender or other important cues, potentially causing confusion or aggression.

Frequently asked questions