20 Adorable Dog Breeds With Not-So-Adorable Smells

Dogs are loyal, lovable, and often the best part of our day—but let’s be honest, not all of them smell like roses. Some breeds come with a little extra funk thanks to oily coats, skin folds, floppy ears, or even just their natural scent. While these pups may win your heart with their big eyes and wagging tails, they might also challenge your nose from time to time.

Whether it’s a hound’s powerful scent glands or a water-loving dog’s damp coat, certain breeds are just more prone to that classic “doggy smell.” It doesn’t mean they’re any less wonderful—it just means you might want to keep the dog shampoo close by.

Here are 20 dog breeds known for their strong, unique odors. Love them, cuddle them—but maybe crack a window, too.

1. Bloodhound: The Legendary Tracker With A Legendary Odor

Famous for their incredible tracking abilities, Bloodhounds possess more scent receptors than any other breed. Unfortunately, they’re also known for producing quite the smell themselves!

Their loose, wrinkly skin collects moisture and bacteria, creating that distinctive “hound odor” that permeates everything they touch. Their long, droopy ears trap moisture and limit airflow, becoming perfect breeding grounds for yeast and bacteria.

Regular cleaning of skin folds and ears is essential for these gentle giants. Without proper care, their natural oils combine with environmental debris to create an aroma that’s unmistakably Bloodhound – powerful enough to track from rooms away!

2. Beagle: Small Package, Big Fragrance

Beagles pack a lot of personality into their compact frames – including a distinctive scent that many owners recognize instantly. These hunting dogs were bred to track rabbits through any weather, developing oils that protect their coat but also create a unique smell.

Their floppy ears are prone to infections if not cleaned regularly, adding another dimension to their aromatic presence. Many Beagle owners report that even after bathing, that special Beagle bouquet returns within days.

The breed’s love for outdoor adventures means they frequently roll in interesting scents they discover, bringing these treasures home to share with their human families. Their natural enthusiasm for smelly things only enhances their own fragrant reputation!

3. Shar Pei: Wrinkled Wonder With Potent Perfume

The Shar Pei’s trademark wrinkles make them instantly recognizable and utterly adorable. However, those deep skin folds harbor moisture, debris, and bacteria that create a powerful odor if not meticulously cleaned.

Originally bred as fighting dogs in China, Shar Peis have a unique coat that feels somewhat bristly and produces a distinctive oil. This oil helps protect their skin but contributes significantly to their smell profile.

Many Shar Pei owners become nose-blind to their pet’s particular scent, while visitors might be caught off guard by the potent aroma. Regular fold cleaning, specialized shampoos, and sometimes medicated wipes are necessary parts of Shar Pei care to keep smells manageable.

4. Newfoundland: Gentle Giant With A Not-So-Gentle Smell

Known for heroic water rescues and a famously sweet nature, this gentle giant carries a lot more than love in its thick double coat. Designed to withstand icy waters, that dense fur also traps moisture like a sponge—leading to some truly powerful odors, especially after a swim or a rainy walk.

The classic “wet dog” smell? This breed takes it to the next level. Add in a generous helping of drool—often flung impressively far when they shake their massive heads—and you’ve got a scent situation that’s hard to ignore. Their saliva alone can leave a lasting impression on furniture, floors, and unsuspecting guests.

While regular bathing can help, their water-resistant coat resists deep cleaning too. Many owners turn to high-velocity dryers to make sure every inch is fully dry post-bath, which is essential to keep musty odors at bay. It’s all part of life with this lovable but notably fragrant companion.

5. Cocker Spaniel: Silky Coat, Surprising Scent

With their gorgeous flowing coats and soulful eyes, Cocker Spaniels embody canine elegance. Yet beneath those silky locks often lurks a surprising odor that catches many first-time owners off guard.

Their pendulous ears create the perfect warm, dark environment for yeast and bacteria to flourish. Many Cockers also have overactive sebaceous glands that produce excess oil, particularly around the face and paws. This oil has a distinct musty scent that becomes more pronounced if not addressed through regular grooming.

The breed’s long coat traps environmental odors and can quickly develop a funky smell if not bathed regularly. Professional groomers often recognize Cockers by scent alone before seeing them!

6. Mastiff: Massive Dog, Massive Aroma

Mastiffs command attention with their impressive size and noble bearing. What also commands attention is their distinctive odor, which seems proportional to their enormous bodies. These gentle giants have deep facial wrinkles that collect moisture, food particles, and debris.

Their short, dense coat traps oils close to the skin, creating that unmistakable “big dog” smell that permeates furniture, carpets, and car interiors. Mastiffs are also champion droolers, with saliva that quickly develops a strong odor if not wiped away promptly.

Many Mastiff owners keep special “drool rags” strategically placed around their homes. Despite their aromatic challenges, Mastiff lovers insist the breed’s loving nature and protective instincts more than compensate for their fragrant presence.

7. Pug: Adorable Face, Astonishing Aroma

There’s no mistaking that squishy face and those wide, soulful eyes—this small dog packs a big personality into a compact, comical body. But behind the charm lies a few… fragrant quirks. Deep facial wrinkles, while irresistibly cute, are notorious for trapping food, saliva, and bacteria. Without frequent cleaning, those folds can develop a strong, lingering odor that’s hard to miss.

Flatulence is another signature feature, thanks to a combination of sensitive stomachs and the way these dogs tend to inhale their meals. Many owners joke (only half-seriously) that their little clown could clear a room faster than a skunk.

Their short snouts can also lead to dental crowding, which often contributes to bad breath. Still, fans of the breed embrace it all—smells and snorts included—insisting that life with one of these lovable goofballs is more than worth the occasional olfactory offense.

8. Labrador Retriever: America’s Favorite With A Fragrant Twist

Labrador Retrievers consistently rank as America’s most popular dog breed, beloved for their friendly temperament and trainability. Their waterproof double coat helps them excel at water retrieving but also creates a distinctive odor, especially when wet.

Labs produce more sebum (skin oil) than many breeds, giving them that classic “doggy” smell even when clean. Their love for water compounds the issue – whether it’s lakes, puddles, or your toilet bowl, Labs find water irresistible and often carry those environmental odors home.

Many Labs also suffer from ear infections due to their love of swimming and their ear structure, adding another dimension to their aromatic profile. Despite these smelly tendencies, their loving nature keeps them firmly at the top of popularity charts year after year.

9. Bulldog: Wrinkled Face, Powerful Perfume

Few dogs turn heads like this stocky, flat-faced companion with a trademark waddle and endearing snore. Beneath that charming exterior, however, lies a breed that demands serious attention to hygiene. Deep facial folds, while iconic, are breeding grounds for yeast and bacteria if not cleaned regularly—resulting in some truly pungent smells. Many owners swear by daily wipe-downs just to keep things under control.

Their compact build and sensitive digestion also make them infamous for gas that can strike at any moment. Even with a carefully managed diet, these dogs have a reputation for filling a room with their… presence.

Panting and drooling are common too, especially in warm weather, often accompanied by distinct breath odors. But ask any devoted owner, and they’ll tell you it’s all part of the package—because when it comes to loyalty and love, this breed delivers in spades (scent and all).

10. Saint Bernard: Mountain Rescuer With Mountain-Sized Odor

Saint Bernards earned fame rescuing stranded travelers in the Alps. Their massive bodies are covered in thick double coats that trap moisture and develop strong odors, especially after getting wet. Imagine 170 pounds of wet dog smell!

Famous for their drooling capabilities, Saints produce copious amounts of saliva that quickly develops a distinct odor. Their jowls collect food particles, adding another dimension to their aromatic presence. Many owners keep “drool towels” throughout their homes.

Despite frequent bathing, Saint Bernards maintain their distinctive scent. The breed’s tendency to develop skin fold infections, particularly around the face and tail area, can intensify their natural fragrance. Saint Bernard lovers insist the breed’s gentle nature and devotion make the aromatic challenges worthwhile.

11. Boxer: Playful Personality, Powerful Pong

Full of energy, goofy charm, and a heart of gold, this high-spirited breed brings joy wherever it goes—but also a few unexpected smells. Despite a sleek, short coat that seems low-maintenance, their skin can produce oils that build up quickly, leading to a persistent musty odor without routine bathing.

Gassiness is another hallmark of this lovable canine. Known for their powerful flatulence, they’re often the source of surprise air-clearing moments that leave owners reaching for a fan—or an exit.

Though their wrinkles are more subtle than in some breeds, they still need regular cleaning to avoid bacterial buildup. Add in a tendency toward dental problems, and bad breath can become another scent to manage. Still, fans of this affectionate, playful pup agree: a little stink is a small price to pay for such a big personality.

12. Basset Hound: Low Rider With High-Impact Aroma

Basset Hounds captivate with their long, droopy ears and soulful eyes. Those magnificent ears, however, restrict airflow and trap moisture, creating perfect conditions for yeast and bacteria growth and the resulting powerful odor.

Like their Bloodhound cousins, Bassets produce a distinctive “hound odor” from their skin oils that permeates everything they touch. Their short legs don’t keep their long bodies far from the ground, so they pick up environmental odors easily during their scent-tracking adventures.

Many Bassets have skin folds around their face and body that require regular cleaning. Their tendency to drool adds another dimension to their aromatic presence. Despite these challenges, Basset lovers remain devoted to these gentle, melodious hounds, accepting their fragrant nature as part of their charm.

13. Yorkshire Terrier: Tiny Package, Surprising Stink

Don’t let the elegant coat and pint-sized frame fool you—this dainty-looking dog can pack a surprising punch when it comes to odor. That long, silky hair, while stunning, acts like a magnet for environmental smells and requires frequent washing to stay fresh.

Bad breath is another common issue, often tied to the breed’s tendency toward dental problems. Without regular brushing and vet checkups, even a tiny mouth can create a big stink.

Some individuals also struggle with anal gland issues, which release a sharp, fishy scent that’s unmistakable—and unpleasant. While professional grooming goes a long way, many owners quickly become experts in at-home care to keep their little companion smelling as lovely as they look.

14. Chow Chow: Fluffy Exterior, Funky Fragrance

Chow Chows resemble living teddy bears with their thick double coats and distinctive blue-black tongues. That magnificent fur traps moisture close to the skin, creating ideal conditions for bacteria growth and the resulting odor, especially in humid environments.

Their deep-set eyes and facial wrinkles require regular cleaning to prevent yeast infections that contribute to their aromatic presence. Many Chows suffer from skin conditions that can intensify their natural scent if not properly managed.

The breed’s small, upright ears might suggest fewer ear problems, but their thick fur around the ear canal can trap moisture. Regular brushing helps remove dead fur and distribute natural oils, but many Chow owners discover that a distinctive scent remains part of the package with these independent, dignified companions.

15. Shih Tzu: Royal Appearance, Less-Than-Royal Aroma

With a flowing coat and an air of nobility, this pint-sized companion carries the legacy of ancient Chinese royalty—but don’t let the royal roots fool you. Behind the luxurious appearance lies a breed that requires serious maintenance to keep odors at bay.

Long hair, especially around the mouth, easily traps food particles and moisture, creating the perfect environment for bacteria and unpleasant smells. Dental issues are also common, and without consistent care, bad breath can become a lingering concern.

Their prominent eyes and short muzzles often result in excessive tearing, which, if not cleaned daily, can leave a noticeable yeasty odor around the face. Despite their small stature, they’re fully capable of producing big smells—making regular grooming, face washing, and dental hygiene essential to keeping these regal dogs fresh and fragrant.

16. Dachshund: Long Body, Strong Stench

Dachshunds charm with their distinctive elongated bodies and playful personalities. Their floppy ears create warm, dark environments where yeast and bacteria thrive, often leading to infections and the resulting odor.

Many Dachshunds develop dental issues due to their long, narrow jaws, contributing to bad breath that can be quite powerful for such small dogs. Their short legs keep their bodies close to the ground, where they pick up environmental odors during their curious explorations.

The breed’s hunting heritage means they’re naturally attracted to strong smells and may roll in unpleasant substances given the opportunity. Despite these aromatic challenges, Dachshund enthusiasts remain devoted to these brave little dogs, accepting their occasional pungent nature as part of their unique charm.

17. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Royal Name, Commoner’s Odor

Few dogs match the charm and grace of this silky-coated snuggler, known for melting hearts with a single glance. But behind those sweet eyes and flowing ears lies a tendency toward some pretty noticeable odors. Those signature long ears may be beautiful, but they also trap heat and moisture—ideal conditions for yeast and bacterial infections that can create a strong, unpleasant smell.

Dental health can also be an issue, with many individuals prone to bad breath if teeth aren’t regularly cleaned. Add to that the long feathering around their paws, which easily collects debris and moisture, and you’ve got another source of scent to monitor.

Their love of close contact means natural skin oils can quickly end up on furniture and pillows. Fortunately, with consistent ear cleaning, dental care, and bathing, these aromatic challenges can be kept in check. Most owners agree: a little extra grooming is a small price to pay for such a gentle, loving companion.

18. American Coonhound: Hunting Expert With Hound Aroma

American Coonhounds excel at tracking raccoons through any terrain. Their incredible hunting abilities come with the classic “hound odor” that seems universal among scent-tracking breeds.

Their long, droopy ears create perfect environments for moisture retention and bacterial growth. Many Coonhound owners report that even after bathing, that distinctive hound smell returns within days.

The breed’s love for outdoor adventures means they frequently roll in interesting scents they discover, bringing these treasures home. Their natural skin oils serve an important purpose for hunting in various weather conditions but contribute significantly to their aromatic presence. Despite these challenges, Coonhound enthusiasts appreciate their melodious baying and tireless work ethic, accepting the distinctive smell as part of the package.

19. Spinone Italiano: Wire-Haired Wonder With Rustic Redolence

Rugged, affectionate, and built for the field, this Italian hunting dog carries a natural, outdoorsy charm—along with a few unmistakable odors. Its coarse, wiry coat and generous facial furnishings are ideal for withstanding the elements but notorious for trapping food, moisture, and dirt. Without regular cleaning, that rugged coat becomes a magnet for bacteria and strong, lingering smells.

Daily wipe-downs of the beard and mustache are essential, especially after meals, to prevent sour, food-related odors from taking hold. Owners quickly learn the value of keeping grooming wipes within arm’s reach.

With webbed feet and a love for water, this breed often emerges from puddles, lakes, or streams soaked and smelling like the great outdoors. Their thick undercoat retains moisture and can take ages to dry fully, compounding the scent issue. Still, fans of this gentle, soulful dog embrace the occasional funk as part of its rustic charm and working-dog legacy.

20. English Springer Spaniel: Energetic Hunter With Earthy Essence

English Springer Spaniels bound through life with endless enthusiasm and energy. Their medium-length coats trap dirt, debris, and environmental odors during their outdoor adventures, creating a distinctive earthy smell that many owners recognize instantly.

Their pendulous ears create warm, dark environments where yeast and bacteria thrive. Regular ear cleaning is essential for these active hunting dogs to prevent infections and the resulting powerful odors.

Many Springers love water and will find any puddle, pond, or mud hole to splash in, bringing those environmental smells home. Their natural oils help protect them in various weather conditions but contribute significantly to their aromatic presence. Despite these challenges, Springer enthusiasts cherish their versatile, eager-to-please companions.