Some dog breeds are particularly sensitive to strong scents, which can cause discomfort or even health issues. Knowing which breeds are more reactive can help pet owners create a safer environment for their furry friends. Here’s a list of 11 dog breeds that may react to perfumes and air fresheners, along with tips on what to remove first to keep them comfortable.
Basenji
The Basenji, often known as the “barkless dog,” has a keen sense of smell. Its elegant stature and alert expression make it a unique companion. Basenjis can be sensitive to aromatic products due to their heightened olfactory faculties.
Known for its independence, this breed thrives in a clean, scent-free environment. Removing air fresheners and strong perfumes can help keep your Basenji comfortable.
Did you know? This ancient breed has origins in Central Africa and was prized for its hunting prowess.
Finnish Spitz
With a vibrant orange coat, the Finnish Spitz is Finland’s national dog. Renowned for its lively bark, it’s also known for sensitive sniffers that can react to overpowering scents.
Creating a neutral-scent environment can help this breed stay happy and healthy. Start by removing strong-smelling air fresheners.
Fun fact: This breed’s alert barking was historically used for hunting, guiding hunters to game hidden in dense forests.
Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo, a dedicated truffle hunter, boasts a curly and woolly coat. Its nose is not just for show; it’s finely tuned for finding treasures underground. This sensitivity extends to synthetic scents, making perfumes a potential irritant.
To protect your Lagotto’s delicate senses, limit exposure to fragrant candles and sprays.
Did you know? This breed hails from Italy and has been used to sniff out truffles since ancient times.
Portuguese Water Dog
Known for its aquatic skills, the Portuguese Water Dog is a spirited and intelligent breed. Its keen olfactory senses make it sensitive to strong aromas.
It’s advisable to avoid using heavily scented cleaning agents around them. Air fresheners should be minimized to maintain their comfort.
An interesting tidbit: These dogs were historically used by Portuguese fishermen to herd fish into nets.
Spanish Water Dog
The Spanish Water Dog, with its distinctive curly coat, is both energetic and alert. Their acute sense of smell means they can be easily overwhelmed by strong household scents.
Opting for fragrance-free products can help these sensitive noses. Removing scented candles is a good start.
Fun fact: This breed’s versatility made it a jack-of-all-trades on Spanish farms, herding sheep and retrieving game.
Basset Fauve de Bretagne
With short legs and a big heart, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne is an endearing breed. This hound’s sensitive nose can find both scents and trouble.
Overpowering perfumes can cause irritation, so it’s best to keep the environment scent-neutral. Consider removing strong room sprays first.
Did you know? This breed is celebrated for its tenacity and was originally used for hunting in the dense forests of Brittany.
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a lively and adventurous small hound. Its keen sense of smell makes it susceptible to strong fragrances.
Eliminating scented fabric sprays can help maintain a comfortable home for them. Their joyful nature thrives in scent-free surroundings.
Fun fact: This breed was developed in France to track rabbits, using its acute sense of smell.
Cirneco dell’Etna
The Cirneco dell’Etna, with its sleek and elegant form, is a sight to behold. Its sensitive nose often reacts to artificial fragrances.
To ensure their comfort, consider ditching scented laundry detergents. Their well-being is best supported by minimal aromatic exposure.
Did you know? This ancient breed hails from Sicily and was originally used for rabbit hunting on the slopes of Mount Etna.
Norwegian Lundehund
With an uncanny ability to climb and a unique six-toed paw, the Norwegian Lundehund is truly one-of-a-kind. However, its nose is highly sensitive to strong scents.
Avoid using powerful air fresheners to ensure a calming environment. Their health thrives in a neutral-scent atmosphere.
Did you know? This breed’s extra toes helped it climb rocky cliffs to hunt puffins, its traditional quarry.
Kooikerhondje
The Kooikerhondje, a charming Dutch breed, is known for its striking orange and white coat. Its sensitive nose is prone to reactions from intense fragrances.
Keeping your home free from scented candles can help this breed thrive. Their contentment lies in a scent-free domain.
Fun fact: They were once used as duck decoys in the Netherlands, luring ducks into traps with their lively movements.
Canaan Dog
Hailing from the deserts of the Middle East, the Canaan Dog is known for its vigilance and agility. Its sense of smell is acute, making it susceptible to strong household scents.
To ensure comfort, avoid using potent perfumes and air fresheners around them. A neutral environment supports their well-being.
Did you know? This breed was initially used as a guard and herding dog by Bedouins.