If your dog has an unpleasant odor, consult your veterinarian. “Dog odors are often due to medical conditions such as bacterial or yeast skin infections, allergic skin conditions, or hormonal disorders,” says Kimberly Coyner, DVM, of the Dermatology Clinic for Animals in Las Vegas. If your dog is healthy, try identifying the activities associated with her worst odors. For example, is your dog smelly after a swim? “Increased moisture may allow a superficial overgrowth of skin organisms,” Coyner says. “After your dog swims, bathe her with a medicated shampoo containing chlorhexadine for bacteria or ketoconazole for yeast.” Allergic dogs may have a body odor that worsens after exercise or increased skin heat, so an oatmeal or mild shampoo bath may help. For bath preparation brush your dog thoroughly and bathe her no more than once a week. Avoid harsher drying shampoos that contain tar or benzoyl peroxide. Body sprays may help, but use them cautiously. “Sprays can be irritating to some dogs’ eyes, skin, and respiratory passages,” Coyner says. Pet wipes are practical between baths, but individual dogs may be sensitive to ingredients in the wipes such as lanolin or fragrance. A warm washcloth wipe is an economical between-bath tool.