Dog Smells Like Popcorn When Sleeping

After doing some research, it has become apparent that there are many dog owners that have come forward to say that their dog smells like popcorn. There have also been other people that have stated that their dog smells like other food-associated things, and thankfully, there is a reason for this. If you have ever wondered why your dog smells like popcorn or any other food, we are going to explain the reasoning behind it in this article. 

Dogs, like people, produce their own smells from a variety of different bodily functions, and we are going to explain some of these here so that you can better understand why these smells are more common than you might think. If you have ever been sat next to your dog and noticed a strange smell or popcorn, chips, or even more specifically, Fritos, then you are not alone in this.

Why Do My Dog’s Paws Smell Like Popcorn?

Interestingly, there has been a lot of concern expressed about the smell of dog’s paws, and scientists actually hold all of the answers that you have been searching for. There is a Proteus bacteria that produces a sort of sweet-smelling popcorn smell. Dog owners everywhere have been confusing this smell of popcorn with the very real smell of bacteria, which is a sign that this bacteria is actually growing between your dog’s toes. 

This is why their feet, in particular, smell like popcorn, when the rest of them might not. Another part of the body that is commonly associated with this popcorn smell is the ears, as this is another place that this bacteria can grow. Essentially, the paws and ears are the two main places where this bacteria can grow, so if you are smelling a popcorn smell, then this is likely the problem.

It is not typically unknown that bacteria and fungi can live on the skin of healthy animals, like dogs, but their paws are the one part of them that is constantly on the ground, trailing through everything that they come across. They can pick up lots of things on their paws when going about their normal daily routines, which makes them more likely to pick up these kinds of bacteria. 

Your dog is also likely going to lick their paws at some point, and the tongue of a dog actually contains even more microbes, so these are the reasons why your dog’s paws have that popcorn smell, even more so than other parts of their body. In most cases, this is nothing to worry about, but if you are concerned, it won’t hurt to consult a vet for some advice.

Why Do My Dog’s Paws Smell Like Corn Chips?

There is also another type of bacteria that is called Pseudomonas, which can be known to give off a yeasty smell that is typically associated with corn chips. Microbiologists have stated that this smell could simply be the bi-product of bacteria growth, and though it isn’t a strong smell for all dogs, it could definitely be the case for your dog. So, this means that the popcorn smell that you are getting could be due to an overgrowth of different bacteria, and this smell is commonly more often associated with areas like the paws and ears. Within the feet, this smell will more likely appear in areas that are moister. 

There are some bacteria, such as the ones above that we have just mentioned, that have a really strong odour and some people have said that this can smell like bubblegum as it is sweet, yet there is something a little off about the smell. However, the majority of people have reported that this smells exactly like that of popcorn, which is sort of sickly sweet. The more yeasty-scented bacteria are often compared to the smell of corn chips.

Can The Smell of My Dog Tell Me Anything About Their Health?

The smell of any dog can also be caused due to the combination of different fats and oils that are present in their sebum, and the number of microbes that are on the skin. If you didn’t already know, sebum is an oily and waxy substance that is produced by the body’s sebaceous glands, and it will coat, moisturize and protect the skin and coat. This is nothing to worry about, and sebum is a part of the body’s natural oils. 

Microbes will help to breakdown the fats and oils, which will lead to what we can smell. Every dog will smell different, with varying levels of intensity, and this is an important part of the connection made with other dogs. These differences in smell are much harder for humans to detect than they would be for dogs, as we have a much poorer sense of smell in comparison. However, there are some people that might notice these changes in smell.

Any changes that are present within the balance between the skin, the microbes, and the sebum, will change the smell that is produced. Sometimes, this smell will become more pungent and strong, but not always. Interestingly, these changes in smell can be an indicator for different types of skin infections, other infections, or hormone issues. You might also find that your dog smells more when they are wet, and the changes in smell should be checked by a vet if you are concerned about them, or if they are particularly strong. 

Why Do Dogs Smell More When They Sleep?

Most dogs will have some sort of smell to them most of the time, and the reason that you might smell this more when they are sleeping probably isn’t why you are thinking. One of these reasons could be due to the fact that they are simply in closer proximity to you, and another could be that there is an absence of other smells that are masking your dog’s scent. In the daytime, there are lots of smells present within the home that are produced from things like cooking and cleaning, but in the evening, these smells are less common. This will make your dog’s smell stand out more. 

Why does my dog smell like biscuits?

If you have noticed that your dog smells like biscuits, it is likely due to all of the reasons that we have already mentioned above. The smells that dogs produce can be interpreted differently by people, and while some relate this smell to popcorn or corn chips, others might compare it to that of biscuits. Interestingly, many people have said that their dog specifically smells like digestive biscuits or cookies, and this is due to the build-up of yeast and bacteria. All of these are likely to develop in moist areas like the paws and ears. 

Can I get Rid of These Smells?

The smell that you have noticed is typically nothing to worry about, and it isn’t something that you can fix, either. Yeast and bacteria can get trapped in places like the paws every time your dog goes for a walk, and a lack of air circulation and increased moisture can make these smells much stronger. Such places are ideal areas for this bacteria to grow, and there isn’t much that you can do about it. This is a common and natural process, and it is more than normal unless it becomes particularly pungent and overwhelming. Another sign that you have a problem is if your dog is excessively licking at their paws, and if this is the case, you should consult with your vet.

Why Does My Dog’s Fur Smell Weird?

If your dog’s fur smells, it is probably due to the fact that they are overdue for a bath. When they are out and about in your garden, or when they are going for a walk, they are picking up lots of dirt and other debris that gets stuck in their fur and on their skin. If your dog has gotten to the point where their fur smells really bad, then all you need to do is give them a bath. This should get rid of any unpleasant smells. 

Why Does My Dog Smell Like Fish?

If your dog smells like fish, then they probably have an issue going on with their anal glands. This could be due to an infection, or it could be on the way to one if they have not been able to empty their anal glands sufficiently. Your dog will naturally empty their anal glands when they have a bowel movement, but sometimes, this process isn’t occurring, which can cause pain, itching, ad discomfort. Thankfully, you can take them to a vet, who will be able to manually express their anal glands and help to solve the problem.

Why Does My Dog Smell Like Cheese?

The cheesy smell that is coming from your dog is more than likely due to the fact that they have a yeast infection, or maybe even an allergic reaction to something that they have eaten. Another thing that could be the cause of this problem is a poor diet. This will probably result in a trip to the vet, who will be able to give your dog the medicine that they need to clear any infection, or they will be able to help you find the source of the food that is causing an allergic reaction.

Why Does My Dog Smell Like Vinegar?

If you have recently noticed that your dog smells like vinegar, then this could actually be a sign that they have diabetes. It is also not uncommon for dogs that are experiencing issues with their kidneys to smell like vinegar, especially if the vinegar smell is coming from their breath.