Have you ever lifted your dog's paw and caught that weirdly familiar smell-corn chips or Fritos? You are not alone; several dog owners have a similar complaint of the "Frito feet" phenomenon, but why does it smell weird, and do they worry?
What is the Cause of Fritoodor?
The feet of dogs are mostly covered in native bacteria and yeast that reside on the skin. Just like humans, they too possess a microbial ecosystem on their skin called a microbiome, which helps keep things balanced. On the paws of dogs, these bacteria are popular stinkers resembling corn chips or Fritos, Proteus, and Pseudomonas. These are normal flora that are harmless in small amounts.
With sweaty palms, dogs perspire from their feet-not all humans sweat all over, just as dogs do, but it does comprise special places within the dog's body. Mix sweat, dirt, moisture, and lack of ventilation between toe surfaces, creating a condition perfect for bacteria and yeast. With these metabolic by-products, smells could get very close to those that smell like corn chips, and thus, one might get the typical Frito feet aroma.
Is it Normal?
For the most part, normal. This is one of those wacky things that goes with owning a dog. Just as "puppy breath" or "wet dog smell," so too about Frito feet; they're usually not signs of anything really harmful. Some dogs may stink more than others, depending on what breed they are, how clean they tend to be, and where they live. So, if your dog's occasionally nosy paws give off that fed snack smell, it's often nothing of concern.
Now, however, the jarring contrast is there between the mild yeast scent and something more intense or foul. If the scent increases in heaviness or falls within those extremes, or if your dog usually licks or chews his paws, the situation could mean that something is wrong.
Under what conditions should you be concerned about your dog?
Frito smell got some diagnosis, and generally, it is not an alarming condition at times. The serious diseases of the problem may even be followed by these signs:
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Redness or swelling in the area between the toes
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Cracked, dry, or flaky skin
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Persistently licking, chewing, or biting at the paws
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Sour foul or strong odor
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Visible discharge
These symptoms might indicate infections, either bacterial or yeast, allergies, or even a foreign object lodged in the paw. Dogs walking on sharp terrain or hot pavement or those that get wet are prone to paw problems. This is why the above signs must be noted and then taken to your vet for evaluation.
How to Handle and Prevent the Smell
If the Frito feet of your dog annoy you, then you should really try to avoid doing anything about that. If, instead of that, you would rather minimize the smell or keep your paws clean and healthy, consider the following easy pointers:
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Wipe Their Paws Regularly: Clean off dirt and bacteria with wipes safe for your dog after you take your pups out for a walk or through outdoor playtime.
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Wash Their Feet: Just like their bodies, bathe occasionally and keep the paws clean with a mild dog shampoo approved by a vet.
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Hair Trimming Between Toes: Keeping fur short between the paw pads improves airflow and thus moisture buildup.
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Bedding Cleanliness: Wash often the bedding of dogs because bacteria from their environment can contribute to lingering odors.
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Thoroughly Dry Their Paws: After any rainy day, after baths, or after walking in wet areas, these are to be dried always between the toes to prevent moisture collection.
Conclusion
Thus, why do your dog's feet smell like Fritos? Strange but true-the harmless bacteria residing in the skin will usually manifest this symptom, but as a general rule, pharmacies should not be concerned unless the dog shows signs of irritation, suffering, or infection. Just one of those strange things from being a dog owner - could be yet another reason to give those paws a sniff and a smile.
