Why Do Yorkies Stink? Things To Know!

Non-Yorkie owners are probably expecting Yorkies to smell like angels. Their royal appearance, smooth, silky coat, and even their manners are just projecting the “ladies and gentlemen” feeling. Although many believe that Yorkshire Terriers are angels bathing in perfumes, sometimes, it gets a little uncomfortable living with these little ones. So, why do Yorkies stink?

A lot of people assume that because Yorkies are small and don’t have a typical “dog smell,” they should never stink. Unrealistic expectations like this can lead to frustration when their adorable pooch comes back from playtime smelling, well, less than fabulous. Dogs have natural oils on their skin, they roll around in mystery spots at the park, and yes, they occasionally have bad breath.

It’s important to remember that occasional smells are totally normal. Instead of expecting your Yorkie to smell like a bed of roses 24/7, focus on understanding the reasons behind any odors and addressing them with the right care. A little stink here and there doesn’t mean your Yorkie isn’t healthy or happy—it just means they’re a dog!

Why do Yorkies stink? What could be the reasons?

Yorkies aren’t smelly by their nature, but, firstly, they are dogs. They do not have a bath every day, they are playing in parks, with other dogs. So, if you are worried about your cutie smelling bad, you should know something about the reasons behind that.

Yorkies have human-like hair

Yorkies are one of a kind for many reasons but their coat is especially interesting. Unlike many breeds with double coats, Yorkies have a single layer coat that’s more like human hair than dog fur. But this special coat comes with some high maintenance quirks.

Since their hair grows continuously it’s prone to trapping dirt, oils and debris from their adventures. While these oils are good for their skin, too much buildup can lead to an unpleasant smell if not managed. Think of it like not washing your own hair for a bit too long – not ideal right? As one of the best Yorkie shampoos you can use for washing their ”hair” is the 2-in-1 Yorkie Shampoo and Conditioner. It features Coconut oil that is known for its calming effect. It release itchiness and makes a dog’s skin look elastic and healthy. Thanks to a conditioner that comes in the same bottle, you’ll get rid of knots and matted hair.

Yorkies also have active sebaceous glands that produce oils to keep their skin and coat healthy. But if grooming isn’t done regularly these oils can collect, mix with dirt and create an odor. And let’s not forget: Yorkies have sensitive skin, so not grooming or using harsh products can cause irritation or infections making odors worse.

It needs to be brushed frequently, and your dog needs a bath once a week, or at least once in three weeks. Their hair gets wet and dirty from time to time, so sometimes the result is a bad smell. Also, your dog can be allergic, which causes the level of skin oil to increase. For example, while some dogs are not sensitive to fleas at all, others smell extremely bad because of just one flea. A reaction to fleas sometimes means the dog is allergic to the fleas saliva. 

Diet and Your Yorkie’s Stink

Who would have thought what your Yorkie eats has so much to do with how they smell? If their diet is full of junk, they can have stinky breath, skin problems and even a little extra gas (yes, Yorkies can clear a room too!).

Low quality dog food is full of fillers, artificial flavors and preservatives that don’t do your pup’s digestion or overall health any good. Skin issues from food allergies or intolerances can cause excessive oil production and a greasy coat and a not so pleasant smell.

To keep the stink at bay, choose high quality, hypoallergenic dog food with real ingredients like lean proteins, whole grains and veggies. Many Yorkies do well on a diet rich in omega-3s which help with healthy skin and a shiny coat. If you’re not sure where to start, your vet can recommend options for your pup.

And don’t forget to watch out for sneaky treats or table scraps! A balanced diet can go a long way in keeping your Yorkie fresh from the inside out.

Environmental Factors

Yorkies may look like they belong on a velvet throne but they’re still dogs at heart and dogs love to get dirty. If your Yorkie spends time outside (and they should for their health and happiness) they’re going to pick up a little “eau de nature” along the way.

Rolling in grass, digging in dirt and even meeting other pups at the park can all leave your Yorkie smelling less than fresh. Wet environments like playing in puddles or getting caught in the rain can also make their coat a breeding ground for bacteria and that dreaded “wet dog smell.”

Environmental allergies are another factor. Pollen, mold or even certain plants can irritate your Yorkie’s skin, causing itching and oil production. This irritation not only makes your pup uncomfortable but can also lead to stronger odors.

To minimize environmental smells wipe your Yorkie down with a damp cloth after outdoor adventures especially their paws and belly. Regular grooming and the occasional use of a deodorizing spray can also help keep that fresh smell intact. And if allergies seem to be an issue your vet can help identify triggers and recommend treatments to keep your little explorer happy and odor free.

Allergies can be related to plants, specific food, or ingredients. If you have any suspicion that the skin is the source of bad smell, visit the vet because it can be a skin infection.

Dental Problems in Your Yorkie

Other than skin and hair, the source of a bad smell can also be your Yorkie’s mouth. The reason is clear – there are some issues with Yorkie’s teeth. Food leftovers and bacteria can cause some serious dental problems and a bad smell with them. The fastest way to clean your Yorkie’s teeth is to give them dry food because the crunchy texture will keep them clean. Also, chewing toys are great for the Yorkie’s dental health. They are a small dog breed, which means dental issues are not strange to them. Some owners don’t believe it but, your Yorkie needs its teeth brushed! Brush them daily, and use appropriate dog toothpaste. Brushing Yorkie’s teeth and making sure it is eating healthy and proper food will keep their teeth strong, and fortunately, not smelly!

Why Dental Care Matters:

• Plaque buildup turns into tartar, causing inflammation and bad breath.
• Gum disease can lead to infections that may even affect their internal organs.
• Food debris left between their teeth promotes bacterial growth and stinky breath.

How to Keep Those Teeth Clean:

• Brush Daily: Use a dog-safe toothpaste and a small toothbrush. Make it part of their daily routine.
• Dental Chews: Offer chews designed to clean teeth and massage gums.
• Professional Cleanings: Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings with your vet.

A clean mouth equals a happy Yorkie—and fewer reasons to ask, “Why do Yorkies stink?”

Anal Gland Maintenance

Yes, this is a gross topic, but it’s important! Your Yorkie’s anal glands, located near their rear, produce a scent for marking territory. If these glands don’t empty properly, they can become impacted or infected, leading to an awful smell. All dogs have anal sacs and glands, which they inherited from wolfs. The only usage of these parts is territory marking. That is actually the reason why dogs are smelling each other’s bottoms when meeting. An inflammation or another issue can happen in this area, which, apart from the bad smell, causes severe pain to your dog. In this case, you should consult your vet, as soon as possible. There are some more health problems causing smells and odors, such as ear infection. If your dog keeps smelling bad even after a bath, a medical issue is probably the cause. 

Signs of Anal Gland Problems:

• Scooting their bottom on the floor.
• Excessive licking around the tail area.
• A foul, fishy odor that lingers even after a bath.

If you notice these signs, it’s time to visit your vet or groomer. They can safely express the glands and check for infections. Keeping your Yorkie on a high-fiber diet can also help prevent gland issues.

Addressing Ear Infections in Yorkies

Yorkies have adorable floppy ears, but these can trap moisture and wax, creating the perfect environment for infections. Ear infections are a common reason why Yorkies stink.

What Causes Ear Infections?

• Wax buildup or debris.
• Moisture from baths or swimming.
• Ear mites or allergies.

Ear Cleaning Routine:

1. Use a vet-approved ear cleaning solution. Our recommendation is to use the Yorkie Ear Cleaning Solution. It effectively cleans the ear canal, removes debris and excessive ear wax. Besides, it really smells great.

1. Gently wipe the outer ear with a cotton ball—never go too deep!
2. Dry their ears thoroughly after baths to prevent moisture buildup.

If your Yorkie is shaking their head or scratching their ears excessively, it’s time to see the vet.

READ ALSO: Do Yorkies Love to Wear Clothes?

How to Identify Other Health Issues

Sometimes, bad smells are a symptom of underlying health issues. Here are some conditions that might make you wonder, “Why do Yorkies stink?”:

• Diabetes: Sweet-smelling breath could indicate blood sugar problems.
• Kidney Disease: A strong ammonia-like smell may point to kidney trouble.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Chronic gas or bad breath might be linked to digestion problems.

Regular vet checkups are crucial for catching these issues early and keeping your Yorkie healthy and happy.

Why do Yorkies stink? Wrapping up

So, have in mind that your loved Yorkshire Terrier is a dog. Sometimes it just smells bad, because of natural skin oils, or because of the dirt accumulating on its hair. But still, some basic hygiene needs to be maintained. Give your dog a bath once a week if possible, if not, once in three weeks. Groom and brush that gorgeous hair. Take care of their little teeth. Yorkies like showing them! Brush them daily and feed your dog according to its needs and nature.

Always consult with your vet, and make a visit on a regular basis. If your Yorkie likes wearing cute outfits, wash them properly and frequently, especially if it gets wet and dirty outside. Yorkshire Terriers are one of the most demanding little creatures, the biggest drama queens, and high-maintenance cuties. Who knew someone so tiny needs so much attention and care? No, that’s the wrong way to think about it. Keep your glass half full. Yorkies are the gloriest among the dogs, and there is not a level of care and treatment high enough when it comes to them!