Why Do My Dog’s Feet Smell Like Fritos?
Have you ever noticed that your dog’s feet smell like Fritos or corn chips? Often referred to as ‘Frito’ feet, its term for the corn chip smell that comes from a dog’s paws.
At Lone Tree Veterinary Medical Center, we never shy away from life’s tough questions! Read below as we tackle the strangely pleasant phenomenon of why your dog’s feet smell like Fritos.
What Causes a Dog Feet To Smell Like Fritos?
The answer to why your dog’s feet smell like Fritos is relatively simple. Naturally occurring bacteria cause that corn chips smell. Pseudomonas and Proteus are the bacteria that emits the yeasty odor and corn chip smell. Both are completely harmless.
Even healthy dogs have normal bacteria on their feet and skin. Several different substances come into contact with dogs’ feet. Walking on various surfaces, licking their paws, and moisture create the perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to grow.
Yeast and Allergy Connection to Frito Feet
Most pet owners don’t mind the subtle smell of Frito Feet. If the smell becomes overwhelming, it could indicate to something more serious.
Yeast overgrowth is a potential problem that can lead to secondary infection. It typically affects pets with compromised immune systems or allergies.
Signs of possible of yeast and/or allergy infections:
- Corn chip smell coming from the ears
- Excessive licking/chewing at the paws or other parts of the body
- Raw or red ears or skin
- Injury to the paws
- Hair loss
- Skin lesions or bumps
Getting Rid of the Corn Chip Smell
If you want to keep your dog’s paws at their cleanest, the best way to do this is with grooming and proper paw care.
Treatments for Frito Feet:
- Regular Baths: (at home or by professional groomers). Each dog has different bathing needs. We can recommend the appropriate bathing frequency.
- Dog Shampoo: We recommend using shampoos that address your dog’s needs. We carry a large variety of shampoos and our grooming staff can help with selecting the right one.
- Always dry your pet’s feet after a bath.
- Trim fur: Trim the fur between your dog’s toes.
- Trim toenails: Trim your dog’s toenails regularly.
- Clean wet paws: Wipe clean and dry wet or muddy paws each time your dog comes in from outdoors.
Don’t Fret About Fritos Feet
Your dog’s paws play an important role in your dog’s comfort and life-long mobility. Let’s keep them healthy! Don’t hesitate to give us a call for more information or to schedule an exam with our veterinarian or a grooming appointment in our Grooming Salon. We are always happy to help your pets have great lives!
