Groomers' Favorite Dog Colognes: What's The Scent?

Dog colognes and deodorants are a great way to keep your dog smelling fresh and clean, especially if they don't require frequent baths. There are many options available, but it's important to choose one that is safe and non-irritating for your dog's skin. Some popular choices include the Gerrard Larriett Aromatherapy Pet Care Freshening & Shining Spray, Pawfume Premium Grooming Spray, and Lambert Kay Fresh 'n Clean Dog Cologne Spray. These products offer different fragrances, such as lavender, baby powder, and tropical scents, and are designed to be long-lasting and effective at neutralizing odours. It's always a good idea to test the product on a small area of your dog's body first to ensure it doesn't cause any skin irritation.

Dog colognes are safe to use and can be used daily

Dog colognes are generally safe to use on dogs and can be used daily. However, it is important to choose the right product and use it correctly to avoid any potential harm to your dog's health and well-being. Here are some key points to consider:

Product Selection:

• Opt for dog-specific colognes: While it may be tempting to reach for your favourite perfume or cologne, it is important to remember that human fragrances are typically not suitable for dogs. Always choose a product specifically designed for dogs, as these are formulated with their unique needs and sensitivities in mind.
• Check the ingredients: Look for natural, organic, or plant-based ingredients. Avoid products with harsh chemicals, such as sulfates, parabens, phosphates, and alcohol. Alcohol, in particular, can dry out your dog's skin and cause irritation.
• Avoid artificial fragrances: Artificial fragrances are often made from petrochemicals derived from crude oil, which can be toxic to both dogs and humans. Choose products with natural or essential oils instead.
• Consider your dog's skin type: If your dog has sensitive skin or allergies, opt for hypoallergenic, allergy-friendly, or sensitive skin formulas. You may also want to perform a patch test before full application to ensure your dog doesn't react negatively.
• Scent preferences: Choose a scent that appeals to you and your dog. Popular options include baby powder, lavender, coconut, and fruity scents.

Application Tips:

• Frequency: While dog colognes are generally safe for daily use, it is important not to overdo it. Apply sparingly and only when needed. Overuse of cologne can be unpleasant for your dog and may cover up signs of certain health issues.
• Application method: Follow the instructions on the product label. Typically, you would hold the bottle a few inches away from your dog's coat and spray onto their back and chest, avoiding their face, eyes, nose, mouth, and genitals. Alternatively, you can spray the cologne onto your hands and gently apply it to your dog's coat.
• Grooming: Using dog cologne is often part of the grooming process. It is typically applied after a bath when your dog's coat is clean and more receptive to the fragrance. Some colognes also offer conditioning benefits, helping to detangle and smooth your dog's coat.
• Safety precautions: Do not spray dog cologne near your dog's face, eyes, nose, mouth, or genitals, as these areas are more sensitive. If your dog shows any signs of irritation, discontinue use and consult your veterinarian if necessary.

Recommended Products:

• PAWFUME Premium Grooming Spray: This long-lasting, hypoallergenic, and alcohol-free spray is infused with a calming lavender scent. It is vet-certified and safe for dogs.
• TropiClean Deodorizing Sprays: These natural sprays come in a variety of tempting fragrances, including coconut and pineapple. They are free of harsh chemicals and safe for dogs over 12 weeks old.
• Nature's Specialties Foo Foo Simply Plum Cologne: This cologne is formulated with natural ingredients like almond, coconut, and sweet plum essences, leaving your dog with a fruity and pleasant scent.
• Lambert Kay Fresh 'n Clean Cologne Spray: This popular cologne comes in a variety of scents, including baby powder and floral. It helps eliminate body odour and keeps your dog smelling fresh between washes.
• Gerrard Larriett Aromatherapy Spray: With chamomile and lavender essential oils, this spray not only makes your dog smell great but also has calming and soothing properties. It is pH-balanced and safe for all dog breeds.

Dog colognes are made from organic products and are alcohol and paraben-free

Dog colognes made from organic products

Dog colognes are often made from organic products and are alcohol and paraben-free. These colognes are designed to be safe and gentle on a dog's skin and coat, avoiding the use of harsh chemicals that can cause dryness, itchiness, and irritation. Here are some examples:

PAWSfx Pet Cologne

PAWSfx offers a pet cologne that is alcohol and paraben-free. Their product is safe for puppies and kittens over six weeks old and is designed to neutralise body odour and keep the coat smelling fresh. The cologne features fragrance notes of musk, lemon, ginger, and oakmoss, providing a long-lasting fragrance. It is loved by both pets and their owners.

Showseason Spring Rain Dog Cologne

Showseason's Spring Rain Dog Cologne is paraben-free and made with sustainable, non-toxic ingredients. It offers a sensual Hawaiian plumeria scent that is not overpowering. The cologne is safe for use on dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens, providing a fresh and clean aroma that lasts for weeks.

Pawdaw of London Natural Refreshing Cologne

Pawdaw of London's natural dog cologne is alcohol, paraben, SLS, and silicone-free. It is scented with grapefruit, bergamot, and ylang-ylang essential oils, providing a natural aroma that is kind to a dog's skin and sensitive nose. The cologne also contains aloe vera, rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which helps to strengthen fur and soothe skin.

Vet Recommended Premium Dog Cologne

This alcohol-free dog cologne by Vet Recommended is designed for puppies and dogs with sensitive skin. It is made in the USA and acts as an odour eliminator, leaving a fresh cucumber melon scent.

Nature's Specialties Foo-Foo Simply Plum Cologne

Nature's Specialties creates a dog cologne with a unique plum scent, formulated with natural ingredients such as purified water, almond, coconut, and sweet plum essences. It is safe for both dogs and cats and is used by grooming experts in salons, leaving pets and their owners happy.

Gerrard Larriett Aromatherapy Pet Care De-Stress

Gerrard Larriett's dog cologne is a blend of chamomile and lavender essential oils, providing a soothing and fresh scent. It also contains lanolin, aloe vera, vitamin E, and oats, which nourish and hydrate the skin and coat. This pH-balanced formulation is suitable for any breed of dog.

TropiClean Deodorizing Sprays for Pets

TropiClean offers deodorizing sprays that are paraben-free and derived from natural materials, safe for dogs over 12 weeks old. They offer a variety of eight different fragrances, including natural goodies like wheat, oats, and coconut.

Bodhi Dog Natural Pet Cologne

Bodhi Dog's natural pet cologne serves as a deodorant and puppy perfume with a gentle and mild formulation. It has conditioning properties that leave the coat soft and tangle-free. The Sugar Cookie scent provides a refreshing alternative to floral and citrusy scents.

Pawfume Premium Grooming Spray

Pawfume's premium grooming spray is alcohol and paraben-free, providing a long-lasting fragrance that lasts up to five times longer than competitors. It helps detangle, condition, moisturise, and reduce static in the coat. The spray is hypoallergenic and safe for all breeds.

These examples showcase the variety of dog colognes available that are made from organic products and are alcohol and paraben-free. They prioritise the safety and well-being of dogs while providing a pleasant fragrance.

You should choose a dog cologne with natural ingredients to avoid harming your dog's skin

When choosing a dog cologne, it's important to prioritise your dog's skin health and opt for natural ingredients to avoid any harm. Most regular dog colognes contain alcohol and other chemicals that can dry out your dog's skin and coat, leading to dryness and itchiness, and may be harmful if they come into contact with their eyes.

Natural dog colognes, on the other hand, use ingredients that are safe and gentle on your dog's skin and coat. For example, essential oils such as grapefruit, bergamot, and ylang-ylang can provide a natural aroma that is kind to your dog's skin and sensitive nose. Aloe vera, rich in vitamins A, C, and E, is another natural ingredient that can add shine, strengthen fur, and soothe skin irritation.

When selecting a dog cologne, look for products that are paraben-free, SLS-free, and silicone-free to avoid potential irritants. It's also important to perform a patch test before fully applying the cologne to your dog's coat, as even natural ingredients can sometimes cause allergic reactions in certain dogs.

• Pawdaw of London's Natural Refreshing Cologne: This cologne is scented with grapefruit, bergamot, and ylang-ylang essential oils, and contains aloe vera, vitamins A, C, and E. It's a 2-in-1 fur freshening spray that helps remove odours, nourish and condition the coat, and keep it soft and fresh. It's also hypoallergenic and safe for all skin types.
• Bodhi Dog Natural Dog Cologne: This cologne is made in the USA and contains natural conditioners that help detangle and soften your dog's coat. It effectively controls odours without being overpowering and is recommended by vets and groomers.
• Gerrard Larriett Aromatherapy Pet Care De-stress: This cologne contains chamomile and lavender essential oils, as well as natural ingredients like aloe vera, vitamin E, lanolin, and oats, which help nourish and soothe your dog's skin and coat. It's pH-balanced and safe for all dog breeds.
• Nature's Specialties Plum Silky Dog Cologne: This cologne is a natural choice for professional groomers, made in the USA, and ready to use as a finishing spray. It has excellent reviews, with many buyers praising its light and pleasant scent.

Dog colognes mask odours, while dog deodorants remove the bacteria causing the bad smell

Dog colognes and deodorants are designed to keep your dog smelling fresh and clean. While colognes are used to add a pleasant scent to your dog's coat, deodorants are formulated to neutralise or eliminate odours.

Dog colognes mask odours

Dog colognes, also known as fragrances, are designed to mask or hide nasty odours by replacing them with a pleasant fragrance. They are meant to enhance your dog's natural aroma or simply make them smell pleasant. Dog colognes are typically applied by spraying or spritzing onto the dog's coat.

Dog deodorants remove the bacteria causing the bad smell

Dog deodorants, on the other hand, are specifically formulated to tackle the sources of unpleasant odours. They are designed to target and eliminate the bacteria and other microorganisms that cause bad odours. Dog deodorants are available in various forms, including sprays, powders, wipes, or shampoos.

Combined products

Many products combine the benefits of both colognes and deodorants, offering a pleasant fragrance while also neutralising or eliminating odours.

Factors to consider when choosing a dog cologne or deodorant

When choosing a dog cologne or deodorant, it is important to consider the following factors:

• Safety: Check the ingredients list to ensure the product is safe for dogs. Avoid products with harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, or irritants. Look for natural, hypoallergenic, and gentle ingredients.
• Allergies and sensitivities: Consider your dog's known allergies or sensitivities. Opt for unscented or hypoallergenic products if your dog has a history of reacting negatively to certain ingredients or fragrances.
• Fragrance: Choose a scent that will please both you and your dog. Keep in mind that dogs have a stronger sense of smell than humans, so select a mild fragrance that will not be overpowering for them.
• Application method: Choose a form and application method that is convenient for you and comfortable for your dog. Some dogs may prefer certain methods, such as sprays or wipes.
• Safety and pet-friendly status: Ensure the product is specifically formulated for dogs and is safe for their skin and coat. Do not use human perfumes or deodorants, as they may contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs.
• Duration: Consider how long you want the fragrance or odour-neutralising effect to last. Some products offer long-lasting results, while others may require more frequent application.
• Reviews and recommendations: Read reviews from other dog parents to learn about their experiences with the product. Look for reputable brands and consider consulting your veterinarian for recommendations.

Popular dog colognes and deodorants

• Bodhi Dog Natural Pet Cologne: Offers a light baby powder fragrance and promotes a healthy, shiny coat.
• PAWFUME Premium Grooming Spray: A long-lasting spray with a sweet and fruity fragrance. It also moisturises dry skin and detangles coats.
• Burt's Bees Natural Deodorizing Spray: A gentle, natural alternative with apple and rosemary to deodorise your dog's coat effectively.
• TropiClean SPA Comfort Dog Cologne Spray: Features a soothing scent of kiwi, melon, lavender, and jasmine, with added oatmeal and vitamin E to support skin health.
• Gerrard Larriett Aromatherapy Freshening and Shining Dog Perfume: A unique luxury perfume with lavender and chamomile, offering aromatherapeutic benefits and a calming effect.
• Arm & Hammer Super Deodorizing Spray: Utilises baking soda, a powerful natural deodoriser, to neutralise unpleasant dog odours effectively.

Cautions when using dog colognes and deodorants

When using dog colognes and deodorants, it is important to use them sparingly and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Do not use human perfumes or colognes on dogs, as they can be harmful. Always prioritise your dog's safety and well-being.

Additionally, if your dog has sensitive skin or is prone to allergies, it is advisable to introduce new products gradually and monitor their comfort level. Discontinue use and consult your veterinarian if any signs of irritation or discomfort occur.

You should test a dog cologne on yourself before using it on your dog

When it comes to dog cologne, there are a plethora of options to choose from. However, before you spritz your dog with any scent, it is highly recommended that you test the cologne on yourself first. While dog colognes are designed to be safe for canine use, it is always better to be cautious. By testing the cologne on your own skin, you can ensure that it won't cause any adverse reactions for your furry friend.

Dog colognes are typically formulated with the understanding that a dog's sense of smell is far more sensitive than that of a human. As such, these colognes tend to have milder scents and fewer chemicals. However, every dog is unique, and some may still be sensitive to certain ingredients. By testing the cologne on yourself first, you can identify any potential allergens and avoid causing discomfort for your pet.

Additionally, testing the cologne on yourself will give you a better idea of the scent's strength and longevity. You don't want to accidentally overpower your dog, or anyone who comes into close contact with them, with a strong or long-lasting fragrance. Testing it on your own skin will give you a more accurate impression of the scent's intensity and how long it lingers.

When selecting a dog cologne, opt for one that is alcohol-free to prevent drying out your dog's skin. Natural ingredients are also preferable, as they are less likely to irritate your dog's skin and nose. Always follow the application guidelines provided with the cologne, including performing a spot test on your dog before full application.

Remember, while you may want your dog to smell pleasant, it is crucial to prioritise their health and comfort. If you have any concerns or your dog has sensitive skin, consult your veterinarian for advice on using cologne safely.

Frequently asked questions