We’re not saying we regularly keep our eyes glued to our dogs’ paws. But, how could we not? We do! They’re adorable and grinch-like with the fur tufts. Why do they appear to smell like corn chips? Do we think they are conjuring up the smell of Frito in their shoes?
We’re not making up our minds that Frito feet (um, isn’t a term used in the technical field) are a frequent occurrence in dogs; however, it’s not too harmful. You need to be aware of this and when to contact your vet.
Why Do Dogs’ Paws Smell Like Corn Chips?
In a video produced by National Geographic, veterinarian Dr. Courtney Campbell explains that dogs have Eccrine glands in their paw pads and noses. “They secrete a little fluid to keep the skin moist and supple. And sometimes, if bacteria grow in there or debris, it can smell like…corn chips.”
So, should your dog’s scent be slightly off, There’s no reason to be concerned. It’s a normal event, and there’s no need to take him to the vet.
What Is “Frito Feet?”
Frito feet are an imaginative way to describe the distinctive scent of dogs with paws. It’s close to having the same smell as your favorite popcorn chips, Fritos and Doritos. However, out of the many smells your dog could have (like wet dog or simply funny), what is the reason for chips?
The Fritos feet are a natural
“Fritos feet” is standard in the world of pups, and that scent is not something to worry about.
“It is likely from a small amount of yeast or bacteria that normally grows in the dark, moist environments — [like] the space between your dog’s toes,” Dr. Gary Puglia, a veterinarian at BluePearl Specialty and Emergency Pet Hospital, explained to The Dodo.
In reality, the Fritos mystery stems from a particular bacteria known as Pseudomonas and Proteus that emit a yeasty smell that may remind you of the delicious corn chips you enjoy.
The bacteria are usually harmless and live happily between your dog’s toes.
The Curious Case of the Corn Chip
Dogs can smell funny occasionally; however, the yeasty smell emanating from their paws is definitely a bit curious.
The positive side is this smell is not a problem and is common in healthy dogs. The root of the smell of corn chips is a bacterial issue. Bacteria in balance are healthy and normal; however, when you mix yeasts and bacteria, this mixture produces an odor of a corn chip.
The bacteria involved are Pseudomonas and Proteus and Proteus, which produce that distinctive scent. Along with yeast and bacteria on your body, the pet swerves through various things outdoors, from dirt debris to garbage and animal waste.
Why Do Your Dog’s Feet Smell Like Fritos?
Your pet’s feet smell like Fritos is sweet and short. Our dogs move across and around many different surfaces each day and acquire naturally occurring germs on the pads of their feet. Two kinds of bacteria, Pseudomonas and Proteus, are the most common culprits behind the smell of corn chips combined with saliva from grooming and sweat that is normal on the pads of their paws.
Keeping Your Dog’s Feet Clean
The best method to avoid Frito feet or any other infection is to ensure your pet’s feet are as clean as possible.
Here are some tips to be aware of:
Make sure to bathe your dog frequently with particular attention paid to its paws and between its pads. Ensure not to bathe more often than once a month unless your vet instructs you. Bathing too often can dry out the skin and strip away the oils that protect it.
Keep your pet’s feet dry.
Cut long fur off their feet and their paws.
Ensure your pet’s feet are clean after being in dirt, grass, mud, or other filthy environments.
Think about using pet booties to ensure your dog’s feet are well-maintained and free of injuries.
What Can I Do About Dog Frito Feet?
Wiping your pet’s feet clean with a non-scented pet wipe, especially when they’ve been outside playing or splashing around in the water or engaging in activities that can cause them to sweat a bit – can aid in reducing the smell and also regularly cleaning their feet with shampoo for pets. Doctor. Wooten also recommends keeping the hair under and between the toes to prevent the accumulation of any bacteria that might increase the smell.
With just a bit of foot care, the next time you’re on your couch and you catch the scent of popcorn, the smell might emanate from the bowl of snacks. The bowl is just a snack.
What Causes a Corn Chip Smell in Dog Feet?
Many people know that dogs sweat through panting, but the primary method they cool down is via their feet. The sweat glands release it, which causes moisture between the pads of the paws and toes. When heat and moisture mix without drying out frequently, yeast or bacteria can be present. This is very typical in dogs because they have fur that is wet. In combination with sweating could be a problem for a dog who regularly licks its feet or is immersed in the water. Specific yeast and bacteria can create a corn chip smell on dogs’ feet.
Tips to Reduce Stinky Feet in Dogs
You can lessen the smell by cleaning your pet’s feet with shampoo for dogs. If your dog isn’t cooperating, take a treat or two so that he will begin to associate washing his feet with positive things.
You can also lessen the smell by washing your pet’s feet following any exercise that may cause sweating. This can include outdoor activities and swimming. Make sure you use non-scented pet-safe wipes.
It’s wise also to ensure that the hair under and between your dog’s feet is shorter. This will stop it from catching bacteria that could cause a smell. Similar to bathing, a treat for your dog can be a great way to get your pet comfortable with having his hair cut. Let the grooming service at West Palm Beach handle this job for you is also possible.