Some dogs just stink—and we love them anyway.
It’s not their fault. Genetics, habits, and yes, even the weather can turn these pups into little stink machines. But here’s the thing: we wouldn’t trade them for anything.
From the unmistakable odor of a wet dog to the more persistent smells that follow certain breeds, some dogs come with their own scent that’s hard to ignore. But don’t be fooled. Beneath the smell is loyal love, endless affection, and a heart full of joy.
So, if you’re ready to embrace the smell and the love that comes with it, here’s a list of 20 dog breeds that might leave you sniffing—but absolutely adoring them nonetheless.
Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are known for their droopy eyes, long ears, and, unfortunately, their distinct smell. Their dense, oily coat often traps odors, requiring regular grooming. Despite the smell, their gentle nature and loyalty make them a popular choice among dog lovers.
Bassets are social animals, known for their friendly disposition. They thrive in family environments and are excellent with children. Owners often find their unique howl charming, adding to their appeal.
Regular baths and ear cleaning can help manage their odor, ensuring their lovable personality shines through without too much of a stink.
Bulldog
Bulldogs are iconic, recognized for their wrinkled faces and stocky builds. They also have a reputation for having a strong odor, largely due to skin folds that trap moisture and bacteria.
Despite this, their laid-back and friendly nature makes them wonderful companions. Bulldogs are known for their loyalty and are quite the couch potatoes, making them ideal for indoor living.
Regular cleaning of their skin folds and proper diet can help mitigate their smell, allowing their charming personalities to shine. Owners cherish their calm demeanor and loving nature.
Bloodhound
Bloodhounds are famous for their incredible scent-tracking abilities, but they also carry a strong odor. Their oily skin helps protect them in the elements but can lead to a noticeable smell.
These dogs are known for their perseverance and gentleness. They make excellent family pets and are especially good with children. Bloodhounds are active and require regular exercise.
To keep their odor at bay, regular bathing and ear cleaning are essential. Their loyal and affectionate nature makes them well-loved, odors and all, by those who appreciate their unique traits.
Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels, with their wavy coats and soulful eyes, are adored by many. Their coat, however, requires regular grooming to prevent matting and odor buildup.
These dogs are known for their playful and affectionate demeanor. They enjoy being part of family activities and are often seen as perpetual puppies due to their energy.
Regular grooming sessions, including baths and brushing, help maintain their coat and reduce odor. Owners love their cheerful nature and willingness to please, which easily outweighs any grooming demands.
Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are gentle giants with a significant presence, both in size and smell. Their thick coats can harbor odors if not properly maintained.
These dogs are known for their calm and friendly nature, making them excellent family pets, especially with children. They are protective and loyal but require space due to their size.
Regular grooming, including brushing and bathing, helps manage their odor. Saint Bernard owners appreciate their affectionate demeanor and enjoy the companionship of these loving, albeit sometimes smelly, dogs.
Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are known for their large size and friendly disposition, but also for their strong odor. Their thick, water-resistant coats can retain smells if not properly cared for.
Despite their size, they are gentle and excellent with children, often referred to as ‘nanny dogs.’ Newfies love water and are strong swimmers, adding to their appeal.
Regular grooming, including thorough drying after swims, helps keep their odor in check. Owners value their patient and protective nature, forming strong bonds with these loving companions.
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds, known for their friendliness and intelligence. However, they can have a distinct smell, especially if they enjoy swimming.
Labs are active and thrive in environments where they can play and exercise. They are excellent family dogs and are great with children and other pets.
Regular grooming, including baths and ear cleaning, helps manage their odor. Their playful and loyal nature makes them beloved pets, with many owners overlooking the occasional smell for their companionship.
Shar Pei
Shar Peis are unique with their wrinkled skin and calm demeanor. These wrinkles can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to a noticeable smell.
Despite this, their loyalty and protective nature make them wonderful family pets. Shar Peis are reserved but form strong bonds with their families.
Regular cleaning of their skin folds and proper skincare can help manage odor. Owners admire their independence and gentle nature, finding their companionship worth a bit of extra grooming effort.
Beagle
Beagles are small, energetic dogs known for their merry personalities and strong scent detection abilities. They also have an innate smell that some owners notice.
These dogs are great with families and are especially good with kids. Their playful nature and curiosity make them fun companions.
Regular grooming and proper diet can help manage their odor. Beagle owners appreciate their lively and affectionate nature, finding joy in their antics despite the occasional whiff.
Foxhound
Foxhounds are active, energetic dogs with a strong hunting instinct. They are also known for having a distinctive smell that requires regular attention.
These dogs thrive in active households where they can participate in outdoor activities. They are friendly and sociable, making them great companions for those who enjoy an active lifestyle.
Regular grooming and baths help keep their odor in check. Owners appreciate their joyous spirit and endurance, making the occasional smell a small price to pay for such vibrant companionship.
Pug
Pugs are charming, small dogs with big personalities and a tendency to develop a strong odor. Their skin folds can trap moisture, leading to a noticeable smell.
Despite their odor, Pugs are loved for their playful and affectionate nature. They make excellent companions for families and individuals alike, often providing endless entertainment.
Regular cleaning of their skin folds and maintaining a healthy diet can help manage their smell. Owners adore their quirky and lovable nature, finding that their companionship outweighs any pungent challenges.
Boxer
Boxers are energetic, playful dogs known for their strong build and love for family. They can develop a strong smell, especially without regular grooming.
These dogs are loyal and protective, often forming strong bonds with their families. Boxers require regular exercise to remain happy and healthy.
Routine baths and attention to their coat help reduce odor. Owners enjoy their energetic and loving nature, finding their companionship enriching despite the need for regular grooming.
Mastiff
Mastiffs are imposing, majestic dogs known for their gentle demeanor and strong odor. Their skin folds and drool can contribute to a noticeable smell.
These dogs are loyal companions, known for their protective instincts and loving nature. They do well in homes with space to accommodate their large size.
Regular cleaning of their skin and maintaining a healthy diet can help control odor. Mastiff owners cherish their calm and devoted nature, valuing their presence despite the grooming demands.
Chow Chow
Chow Chows are distinguished by their lion-like mane and aloof demeanor. They also have a reputation for having a strong smell due to their thick coat.
Despite their aloofness, Chow Chows are loyal and protective, forming strong bonds with their families. They require regular grooming to maintain their coat.
Routine brushing and bathing help manage their odor. Owners appreciate their unique personality and striking appearance, finding their companionship rewarding despite the grooming effort required.
Dachshund
Dachshunds, with their long bodies and playful nature, are adored by many. They can develop a noticeable smell if not regularly groomed.
These dogs are spirited and enjoy exploring, often bringing joy to their families with their antics. They make excellent companions for those who enjoy outdoor activities.
Regular baths and ear cleaning help manage their odor. Dachshund owners find their lively and affectionate nature appealing, making the occasional smell a minor issue compared to their companionship.
Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are cheerful, small dogs with fluffy coats that can trap odors if not properly groomed. Their coat requires regular maintenance to prevent matting and odor.
These dogs are known for their happy and sociable nature, making them great companions. They thrive in family environments and enjoy being the center of attention.
Routine grooming, including brushing and bathing, helps keep their coat fresh. Owners love their playful spirit and affectionate nature, finding their companionship delightful despite the grooming demands.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are small dogs with big personalities and a potential for odor if not regularly groomed. Their silky coats require attention to prevent tangles and smells.
These dogs are energetic and make excellent companions for those who enjoy a lively pet. They are known for their courage and tenacity, often acting much larger than their size.
Regular grooming, including haircuts and baths, helps manage their odor. Owners appreciate their bold and loving nature, finding that their companionship far outweighs any grooming challenges.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are known for their luxurious coats and charming personalities, but their coats can trap odors if not properly maintained.
These dogs are affectionate and love being part of family activities. They are excellent with children and often act as loving companions.
Regular grooming, including brushing and bathing, helps manage their odor. Shih Tzu owners adore their sweet and friendly demeanor, finding their companionship rewarding despite the need for regular grooming.
Hound Mix
Hound mixes often inherit the distinct smell of their hound ancestors. Their diverse genetics make them unique, but some may have a stronger odor.
These dogs tend to be friendly and adaptable, fitting well into various family settings. They thrive with regular exercise and mental stimulation.
Regular baths and grooming help manage their smell. Owners find hound mixes to be loving and loyal, appreciating their individuality and the joy they bring, despite any odors.
Poodle Royale
The Poodle Royale is a breed that exudes elegance and sophistication, yet it’s known to carry a distinct aroma that most owners find endearing. Often touted for its hypoallergenic coat, the Poodle’s dense curls can sometimes trap smells from the environment.
Despite its fragrance, this breed is celebrated for its intelligence and loyalty. Poodles are highly trainable, making them a favorite in dog shows. They’re also family-friendly, with a playful demeanor that endears them to children.
Regular grooming is key to managing their scent, and their noble presence often overshadows their aromatic nuances.