Dogs have many more olfactory cells than humans (about 300 million receptors versus just 6 million), so they are able to perceive odors more intensely and at a greater distance. It is easy for them to recognize and distinguish different aromas but these are not always completely pleasant. In fact, there are many smells that annoy dogs and, in this article, we will show you the most interesting ones.
In addition to physiological differences, the sense of smell of dogs and humans also differs with respect to tastes . It is possible that you love a particular smell or fragrance and, at the same time, it is very unpleasant to your four-legged friend.
What are the smells that annoy dogs?
Citrus fruits
That of lemons, oranges or grapefruits is almost a scent for humans. They give a feeling of cleanliness and, most likely, it is a typical fragrance in the products you use for home hygiene. No wonder they are the favorite and best-selling in supermarkets, but be warned: the smell of citrus bothers dogs .
You got it right: if you have a dog, you better change cleaning products. If you know the strength of the smell of lemons and oranges, try multiplying that same fragrance by 40 : in this way you will realize what your best friend feels in smelling the floor just washed with a citrus cleaner.
The smell may be so strong that it can even damage your nose and airways. In short, it is necessary to choose alternative products.
The fact that dogs hate the smell of citrus fruits can turn into an advantage . For example, if you want to prevent your pet from urinating in a certain area of the house or garden , just sprinkle a little lemon juice and that’s it.
Vinegar
Remaining on the subject of domestic cleaning, it may be that some of our readers are used to using vinegar: even in this case, it will be necessary to change the product. Dogs ca n’t stand this smell . As with citrus fruits, you can still use it as a deterrent by making your dog avoid urinating in certain places. A natural and easy to use remedy.
There are also particular types of this extract, such as apple cider vinegar , which is very good for your dog, as it is very effective in fighting allergies, constipation and that it removes parasites, ticks and fleas.
Chili pepper
This smell is one of the most irritating to dogs. If there is any area of the house that you do not want your pet to enter, just use a few grams of chili. Of course, avoid leaving it close at hand.
In addition, it can cause respiratory problems, itchy nose and constant sneezing. Therefore, if you have cooked with chilli, do not forget to wash your hands thoroughly before touching your dog, as the residues of this plant could easily come into contact with the mucous membranes and create many problems.
Ammonia
If a dog could scream , they would scream when they breathe in ammonia… An incredibly annoying smell to them. This highly toxic nitrogen compound produces a very pungent odor that will keep any pet at a clear distance.
Ammonia produces two main effects, nose irritation and sneezing . But be careful: according to some, ammonia has a smell similar to urine and this could tempt the dog to pee where it smells the product.
Mothballs
Let’s finish the list dedicated to the main unpleasant odors for dogs, talking about mothballs. Everyone uses the famous moth balls in their homes, made with this well-known aromatic hydrocarbon. In addition to causing discomfort in the sense of smell, mothballs can cause the death of the animal if it is ingested. This is due to its high degree of toxicity and, in less severe cases, severe liver and nervous system damage will still be caused .
How to keep moths away and protect woolen items in wardrobes? If you have dogs, it is better to use natural remedies , such as tea bags with simple dried lavender inside.
Now that you know the 5 smells that annoy dogs, you can improve the health and well-being of your four-legged friend at home by limiting the use of chemicals and eliminating those fragrances that will annoy your beloved pet.
