Dogs are considered a man’s best friend, and there is no doubt that they are loyal companions. But let’s face it, they can get a little stinky from time to time, which leaves many people wondering if they can spray perfume on their dog. While this may sound like an absurd idea at first, it may surprise you to learn that there are doggy perfumes available.
Is it bad to spray your dog with perfume?
According to Patricia McConnell, a specialist in animal behavior, dogs do actually like to influence their own scent. In her book, The Other End Of The Leash, she details that while humans prefer a pleasing composition of notes, dogs like to cover themselves in somewhat questionable odors such as waste. But to a dog, that’s perfect.
If your dog comes in from the yard with a rather intense aroma, it can be all too tempting to grab your favorite bottle of Dior perfume and spritz it all over your canine companion. But perhaps this might not be the best idea. The scent of some perfumes might be overwhelming to a dog and the chemicals in the fragrance may not be suited to your dog’s skin.
Dogs have more than 300 million smell receptors, whereas humans have a mere six million. When you think about how strong fragrances smell to us, that must be incredible for a dog. So while human perfumes might not be the answer, there are many perfumes for dogs used by professional groomers and owners alike.
Can I spray my dog with my own perfume?
If you spray a very tiny amount of human perfume on your dog once, it is unlikely to do much harm. That said, getting into the habit of regularly using perfume on dogs could be detrimental to your pup.
You should avoid spraying human perfume on your dog owing to the intensity of its scent, which will appear much stronger to the sensitive nose of your dog. What’s more, since human perfume contains high levels of alcohol, this could irritate your dog’s skin. If the dog grooms itself and ingests the fragrance, this could cause health problems. Instead, try using a perfume explicitly designed for dogs.
Introduction to dog perfume
With global celebrities like Ellen Degeneres jumping on the doggy perfume bandwagon; and being very successful with it, it comes as no surprise that these products are becoming more popular. But what exactly is dog perfume?
Whether you are looking for a deodorizer to get that stench off of Fido or simply a fragrance to make your pet smell as fresh as a daisy, you have options. These sprays are much gentler than their human equivalents and won’t irritate the dog’s skin. That said, it is always worth checking in with your vet before you start using a new product.
You may find that some dogs have an allergy to certain human fragrances, which isn’t limited to perfumes. With their sensitive olfactory systems, strong smells like pepper, citrus, and mothballs can all invoke a reaction in your dog. However, doggy perfumes are designed to be much gentler on the nose and are unlikely to cause any reaction.
Unlike human perfumes, which tend to be alcohol-based, the dog alternatives usually feature a water-base.
Top 10 best dog perfumes
Knowing that it is possible to purchase a fragrance for your dog, you’re likely wondering what the best dog perfume is? While there are lots to choose from, we love the following fragrances.
1. TOP PAW Sugar Cookie Dog Perfume
If you want your pooch to smell as though she just came home from a professional groomer then this is a great fragrance. It perfectly resembles that ‘just groomed scent and is gentle to your dog’s skin and coat.
Top Paw contains no soap or parabens and won’t leave behind a greasy residue. This is a water-based fragrance yet still does an excellent job of covering up unpleasant doggy odors. If you love a sweet scent, Top Paw should be your go-to.
2. Bodhi Dog Natural Dog Perfume
Suitable for dogs and various other pets, Bodhi Dog’s Natural Perfume doesn’t just mask odors; it eliminates them, leaving your dog smelling fresh and clean. It contains completely natural ingredients, giving you the confidence that your pet won’t have an adverse reaction.
Bodhi Dog comes in a choice of fragrances, including baby powder, sugar cookie, lilac, and patchouli. No matter your preference, you will be able to find a canine scent that you and your pup love.
3. CK-9 Designer Dog Perfume
A clever take on the popular CK range from Calvin Klein, CK-9 has a striking resemblance to this well-loved human fragrance without any harmful effects for your pet. What’s truly remarkable about CK-9 is that it is a very long-lasting fragrance, and just a few spritzes will keep your pet smelling beautiful all day.
If you have been a perfume fan for a long time, the bottle that CK-9 comes in will likely give you a nostalgic 90s feel. It’s a win-win for pets and owners.
4. Gerrard Larriett Aromatherapy Freshening Dog Perfume
Containing all natural ingredients with no parabens or other nasties, this is a lovely fragrance that you can feel confident about using on your dog. The scent of lavender and chamomile is known for its relaxing properties so this is perfect for those calm moments between you and your doggo at the end of the day.
Gerrard Larriett Aromatherapy Dog Perfume promotes a shiny coat as well as a delightful aroma. The scent is known to reduce anxiety in dogs, so it is great if your pet is a little nervous.
5. Lambert Kay Baby Powder Dog Perfume
Who doesn’t love the smell of baby powder? If you are a fan, this comforting pet perfume by Lambert Kay will be just what you have been looking for. You can purchase the fragrance on its own or as a trio with two other extraordinary scents.
Not only does Lambert Kay leave behind a delicate fragrance, which is ideal for those with a sensitive nose, but it will also promote a healthy coat. Natural ingredients will condition and protect your dog’s coat leaving them looking and smelling incredible.
6. Paleo Pets Let’s Dream Dog Scent – Organic Dog Perfume
Where human perfumes might encourage dry skin, this olive oil-rich cologne for pets will nourish and repair your dog’s skin. It is also enriched with lavender, chamomile, and sage essential oils, each of which has its own healing property.
Most notable, these fragrances will reduce anxiety in nervous dogs, and a noticeable difference can be seen in as little as three weeks. Moreover, all three scents are very easy on the nose and will leave your pup smelling pristine.
7. Ancol Kennel No 5 Dog Perfume
Ancol produces a range of human-inspired doggy scents, and Dog Kennel No 5 is one that heavily resembles Chanel. The fragrance will soothe and refresh the skin, leaving a pleasing aroma that will last as your pet goes about their day.
The spray bottle features a non-aerosol pump, ideal for anyone who is conscious about using responsible products. What’s more, the bright design gives instant appeal.
8. Four Paws Magic Coat Red Dog Cologne
Coming in a bottle that could easily be mistaken for a high-end human cologne, Four Paws cologne acts as a fragrance and deodorizer; ideal for stinky pets. With a longevity to rival even the most exclusive human perfumes, Four Paws will last a minimum of 24 hours. In some cases, the scent will go on for days.
While there are four fragrances in this line, the red perfume for dogs is ideal for pets with an oily coat.
9. Chadog Oh My Dog! Perfume
Imagine the scent of the fair; caramel and apples. Now imagine that on your dog. If this sounds like the stuff of dreams, Oh My Dog can make it a reality. This sweet fragrance will appeal to dogs and owners alike and is made with 100% dog-friendly ingredients.
Oh My Dog offers a very long-lasting fragrance in an easy-to-use bottle. Simply spray a few squirts onto your pet and enjoy. The perfume is not greasy, nor will it leave behind a sticky residue.
10. Pawfume Premium Grooming Spray
If you are looking for a dog perfume that will condition your pet’s coat and is easy to use, Pawfume Premium Grooming Spray could be what you have been searching for. It can be brushed in for maximum effect and will leave behind a delightful scent that goes on for days.
For dogs that are a little sensitive, Pawfume is ideal since it is 100% hypoallergenic and has been certified by professional vets.
What’s more, since it promotes a more conditioned coat, Pawfume will make brushing much easier.
