Do Cockapoos Smell Worse Than Other Dogs? Vet Reviewed Facts & What to Do

Cockapoos are a well-known crossbreed that originated in America and won the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. The Cockapoo's unwaveringly friendly temperament isn't the only positive that draws people to them; they're generally regarded as hypoallergenic and non-smelly dogs compared to some other breeds. They do not, in general, smell worse than other dogs, but their coats can become smelly if they’re not groomed properly.

While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, Cockapoos can be a good option for some people with allergies, as most inherit their Poodle parent's curly coat.

This coat holds a lot of hair and dander, but the general "doggy smell" is significantly reduced in the Cockapoo compared to other breeds. However, your dog must be washed and groomed frequently to minimize odors.

Tips for Combating Bad Odors in Dogs

To minimize unpleasant odors in dogs, establish a regular bathing and grooming routine. Bathing your pet with dog-friendly shampoo every 1 to 2 months is essential, though dirtier or greasier dogs may need more frequent baths. Pet wipes are great for quick cleanups to freshen your dog’s coat and clean delicate areas in between baths. Additionally, maintain dental health with regular tooth brushing and dental chews to prevent bad breath.

When it comes to choosing the right grooming products for cleaning your pup to prevent dog odors and avoid skin irritation, there are two products we cannot recommend highly enough. The Oatmeal Pet Shampoo from Hepper is formulated with aloe and oatmeal to soothe skin and hydrate the coat; and for a convenient on-the-go option to quickly refresh sensitive areas, Hepper's Wash Wipes will help you keep your dog clean from head to tail with moisturizing ingredients. Both products are pH-balanced and formulated with pet-friendly ingredients, free of harsh soaps, chemicals, and dyes. Give this duo a try to soothe, heal and nourish your dog's coat, and leave them with an irresistible just-left-the-spa cucumber and aloe scent.

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What Can Make A Cockapoo Smell?

Several circumstances can make your Cockapoo smell, some of which are medical and some environmental. Like any dog, Cockapoos love to explore and use their noses to find treasures, even if those treasures smell terrible.

Anal gland problems and ear infections are also some of the medical issues your Cockapoo can face, which can make them very smelly, but they aren't limited to just the Cockapoo.

If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your pet, seek veterinary advice for the best course of action.

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Smelly Substances

Fox poop, cat poop, and garbage are all contenders for the smelliest substances a dog absolutely loves to get into, and if not cleaned off properly, they can make them smell awful for days. Because Cockapoos have curly fur, removing all traces of a bad smell can be trickier. Regular grooming is critical for the Cockapoo's coat health.

While owners don't have to clip them as regularly as Poodle owners, Cockapoos need bi-weekly brushing for the straighter-coated varieties and daily grooming for tightly curled coats. Inadequate grooming eventually causes them to smell and can also cause painful matting of the fur that can only be removed by shaving the area.

Ear Infections

While grooming your Cockapoo, checking their ears for signs of infection (and a bad smell) can help you identify a problem. Ear infections are often painful and can cause hearing loss, smelly discharge, and excessive dark ear wax.

Regular ear cleanings (never use a cotton bud on your dog's ears, as it can damage them) can help prevent infections and keep bad smells at bay.

Tooth Decay

Bad breath isn't inevitable for a dog. Good oral hygiene can keep a dog's teeth clean and healthy; gum disease and tartar build-up can cause smelly breath and painful problems such as inflammation of the gums.

Anal Glands

All dogs, including Cockapoos, have two glands on either side of their anus. These glands hold a very smelly substance that almost all dog owners will recognize. This substance usually empties from the glands on its own when a dog poops, but sometimes the glands don't express adequately, meaning they overfill, and blockages can occur.

Any discharge from these sacs is pungent and will cling to fur, meaning that your Cockapoos curly fur may potentially hold more unpleasant smelling fluid. If you suspect your dog has problems expressing their anal glands, such as redness or swelling of the area, or if they're "scooting" their bottoms on the ground, they should be seen by a veterinarian.

Do Cockapoos Make Your House Smell?

The scent will linger if a Cockapoo smells due to poor hygiene, lack of grooming, or a medical condition. Washing your dog's bedding and fabric toys in a pet-safe detergent will significantly reduce odors that may stay in your home. Still, ultimately, dogs do have a natural odor that some people notice more than others.

Final Thoughts

Cockapoos are a "designer" dog breed known for being friendly, low shedding, generally suitable for families, and less likely to smell. As long as their basic hygiene is looked after and your Cockapoo is regularly bathed and groomed, they shouldn't smell any more than the average healthy dog. However, very offensive smells may be the result of an ear infection or dental issue, which requires veterinary treatment.

Featured Image Credit: shaymen99, Pixabay