What do Beagles dislike
10 Smells That Dogs Hate: Dog-Repelling Scents and Odors
The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.
Learn moreDogs navigate their world with their noses. While humans have about 6 million sensory receptor sites in their nasal cavities, dogs have over 100 million sensory receptor sites1. This makes them much more sensitive to odors and scents than humans.
Dogs and humans also seem to have differing preferences for certain smells. Things that smell pleasant to us may not always smell pleasant to dogs. While more research needs to be done on scents that dogs prefer, there are some scents that are commonly known to be disliked by dogs. Here are some common smells that dogs dont particularly enjoy.
The 10 Smells That Dogs Hate
1. Citrus
One of the most common scents that dogs dislike is citrus. This includes lemons, oranges, and grapefruit. Most dogs will stay away from citrus fruits and wont eat them. Its possible that they dont like citrus because of its acidity and tart flavor. Since they dont like the taste of citrus, they wont particularly enjoy the smell of it either.
Fortunately, citrus fruit isnt toxic to dogs. So, you dont have to worry if your dog happens to eat a little bit of it. However, plant parts, the peel and seeds are toxic in large amounts and may cause an upset stomach, especially if your dog swallows a large piece.
2. Cinnamon
Most dogs dont like the smell of cinnamon and will avoid going near it and eating foods that contain it. While cinnamon isnt toxic to dogs, cinnamon powder can be an irritant for them. It should be placed in a safe, unreachable place for dogs to prevent them from inhaling it. It can cause them to choke, cough, or experience difficulty breathing.
3. Fresh Herbs
Dogs dont tend to like the smell of fresh herbs because of their strong scents. Herbs that dogs commonly avoid are cilantro, rosemary, and thyme. However, dogs have their own taste and smell preferences, so some dogs may not mind the smell of certain herbs and eating them.
Its important only to feed dogs safe and non-toxic herbs. Some herbs, like oregano, are harmful to dogs. So, make sure to check with a pet poison control registry to determine if an herb is safe or unsafe for your dog to eat.
4. Vinegar
Most dogs will stay away from the smell of vinegar. Its possible that they dont like vinegar due to its strong, sour smell. Dogs dont seem to particularly enjoy any variety of vinegar, including apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, and rice vinegar.
Dogs generally dont like the taste of sour foods, so it makes sense that theyll avoid most sour smells. Another reason why dogs may not like sour smells is because foods that have gone sour often indicate that theyre spoiled and no longer safe to eat.
5. Bitter Apple
Dogs generally dont enjoy bitter flavors. Bitter apple is a flavor thats commonly used to deter dogs from chewing certain objects. You can find bitter apple sprays sold in pet stores and spray them onto household objects that can be dangerous to dogs, like electrical wires.
Because dogs dont like the bitter flavor, many of them will stay away when they smell bitter apples. Theyll associate the scent with the unfavorable taste and avoid it.
6. Peppercorn and Hot Peppers
Dogs can get irritated by peppercorn because it contains piperine. Piperine is an alkaloid that acts as an irritant when its inhaled, and its what causes us to sneeze when we accidentally breathe in ground pepper.
Dogs also dont enjoy the smell of hot pepper varieties. This is because they contain capsaicin, which can irritate their nasal passages when inhaled and cause an upset stomach when ingested.
7. Pine Oil
Many dogs seem to dislike the smell of pine and will avoid pine-scented items. This is pretty fortunate because pine trees arent generally very safe for dogs. Dogs can experience an upset stomach if they ingest too many pine needles, sap, or oil. Some varieties of pine trees, such as Buddhist Pines, are mildly toxic to dogs. Theyll likely experience vomiting or diarrhea if they ingest any part of a Buddhist Pine.
8. Tobacco
Dogs can feel irritated by the smell of tobacco, and smoke from tobacco products can make breathing difficult for them. They can also experience the negative impacts of secondhand smoke. Dogs that are consistently exposed to secondhand smoke are more likely to have eye infections, allergies, and respiratory issues. Theyre also at higher risk of developing lung cancer and nasal cancer. Dogs with longer noses, such as Collies, Labrador Retrievers, and Dobermans, are more likely to develop nasal tumors when they live in smoke-filled environments.
9. Potpourri
Potpourri may smell nice to us, but it can be too strong for some dogs sensitive noses. Both dry and liquid potpourri can be irritating to dogs. So, if you like using potpourri, make sure that its placed in a well-ventilated space and make sure to lay out small portions at a time. Its also important for your dog not to be confined in a room with a bowl of potpourri, as the smell can be too overwhelming for them.
10. Perfume and Cologne
Since perfumes and colognes often contain scents and essential oils that dogs dont like, its common for them not to enjoy the smell of many of these fragrances. You may notice that your dog will stay away from you right after you spray perfume or cologne.
Perfumes and colognes can be too strong for a dogs nose. So, its important to remember not to hold them or pet them right after you put some on. The fragrance can rub off on your dog and stick to their coats, and this will only further irritate their noses.
Conclusion
Dogs have their own tastes and preferences when it comes to scents and flavors. Getting to know what your own dog likes and dislikes can help you ensure that you avoid putting certain types of fragrances in your home. So, make sure to pay attention to what your dog likes and what your dog seems to avoid. Your dog will appreciate the effort youve put into ensuring your home smells pleasant and is free of any possible irritants.
Featured Image Credit: Ivanova N, Shutterstock
Why do Beagles Howl so much and How to Stop Them
The common problem for every new beagle parent, including you, is the constant howling of the dog. To find the solution to this, you first need to understand the problem. So why do Beagles Howl so much?
Beagles are known to be very vocal about their feelings, and howling is one of them. The most common reason for a beagle to howl is to grab your attention and proclaim its presence. They also howl when they are alone and bored.
Common reasons why Beagles Howl
Grab your attention
Beagles love to play with humans. And when they get bored wandering around and playing with toys, they will come for you. As I said, the most common reason for the beagles howling is to grab your attention.
My beagle cannot see me sitting and not doing something else. He would do anything to grab my attention. He usually howls and jumps.
Express Separation Anxiety
If one day, your neighbor comes to you with a complaint that your dog howls every day when you are at work, then this is due to separation anxiety. In the past, beagles used to hunt in packs. They have always been a social breed. And they dont do well if left alone for a long time. Your beagle might start destroying your furniture due to separation anxiety. Consider leaving him at a friends place when you are at work. You can also hire a dog-walker who would take your dog on a long walk on your behalf.
Express Pain
Your dog might be howling because he is in pain. Howling could be his way of vocalizing pain. If you notice excessive howling, then take your pal to the veterinarian and have him checked.
Fear
Fear triggers beagles to howl. Beagles do get scared, but they are no cowards. They will face their fears and start howling. They also respond to loud noises like thunder or siren.
Just for Fun
I have noticed that my four-legged friend sometimes howls while playing with his favorite toy. I created a poll on Instagram, asking other beagle owners if they have seen something similar. Quite a few parents have noticed their beagle howling when playing.
How to Stop a Beagle from Howling?
It is necessary to train your beagle not to howl in different situations. You dont need a trainer. Beagles are clever. You can teach them yourself. It will also strengthen the bond between you and your pal.
Stop your beagle from Howling for Attention.
Suppose you are watching Netflix, and suddenly your dog looks at you and starts jumping and howling. He is not angry; he is just trying to grab your attention.
It is prevalent for beagles to howl when they are bored and want your attention. Its not something to be entertained. You need to prevent this kind of behavior. Lets go through this step by step and find out how to stop your beagle when he is howling for your attention.
Step 1: Ignore when your Beagle howls
You have to clarify that howling is not the right way to grab your attention. So ignore your little pal. DO NOT respond to his howling. Do not even look at your dog. Any type of reaction from your side will encourage this habit.
NOTE: Even scolding or punishing is a type of reaction and could encourage the beagles behavior.
Step 2: Reward when the dog gets quiet
Once your dog is silent for more than 5 seconds, reward him. During the initial period, keep your beagles treat close. You will need them more often while training him. Sooner or later, your dog will figure out the connection between being quiet and getting a treat.
Do not treat him immediately after his howling; wait for 5 to 10 seconds. Slowly and gradually increase the wait time.
Step 3: Quiet your dog on command
You must teach your beagle discipline. Train him to follow your commands. Train him to howl when you say speak, and train him to stop and be quiet on a hush command.
Training your Beagle to howl on your command:
- When you think your dog is about to make any noise, say speak and let him howl.
- When he starts howling on your speak command, praise him and give him a treat.
- And when he howls without a command, ignore your little pal, do not even look at him.
- This will stop your beagles howling without the command.
Training your Beagle to be quiet on your command:
- When your dog stops howling, say quiet, and praise him, reward him with a treat.
NOTE: Be patient and dont give up. It might take more than a few tries to train your beagle to these commands. But he will learn eventually.
Stop your beagle from Howling when he is lonely.
If you find out that your beagle howls when you are away, then this is due to separation anxiety. As I said before, beagles are social animals. They are used to living in packs, and they might not deal with loneliness properly.
The best method to help your dog overcome separation anxiety is by associating good things with separation. For instance, give your beagle a toy right before you leave. Give him a Food puzzle toy, the best thing for my beagle when he is alone. You can stuff some healthy and delicious food in a Food puzzle toy and give it to your beagle before you leave. The toy will keep him occupied for 30 minutes easily. Make sure you take the toy away as soon as you return home. Be consistent and repeat this for a while. And gradually, your beagles separation anxiety will disappear.
If your beagles separation anxiety continues, consult a vet, dog behavioral expert, or a certified dog trainer.
Over the top, spend quality time with your beagle when you are back home. Take him for a walk, play with him, and teach him some tricks. It will surely help your beagle overcome separation anxiety.
Stop your beagle from Howling when he is afraid.
Environmental triggers such as thunder can also cause your beagle to howl. During such a situation, sit next to your dog and calm him down. Try to distract him by playing fetch or some other game.
If your beagle is sensitive to some specific noises (for instance, the sound of a hairdryer), then it is necessary to teach him not to react to it. You can play that particular noise purposely and let him howl, and once he is calm and quiet, reward him with a treat. Do it consistently, and your dog will get used to that sound.
And if your beagle is sensitive to environmental triggers like thunder, then what you can do is Youtube scary thunder sound and play it at low volume. He most probably wont react to that slow sound; reward him with a treat. Gradually increase some volume and teach him to tolerate it. Do is consistent until your beagle gets used to unpleasant sounds.
Donts
Dont Yell at your Beagle
Never yell at your beagle, especially if he is a puppy. Puppies are not familiar with the concept of yelling. Your yelling will give the wrong impression that you are joining him, making him more excited. It may encourage him to howl more.
Dont use Shock Collars.
NEVER USE shock collars or any other type of remote shock punishment. Not just are they inhuman, but they will scare your beagle mentally for life. Such punishments could make your dog more aggressive. They will create fear in your beagle and make him act formally. DO NOT EVER USE ANY SHOCK PUNISHMENTS.
Some Final Thoughts
Beagles are the lovely bread of dogs, and they love to vocalize their feelings. Sometimes beagle would just howl out of joy. Sometimes I feel like, I and my beagle are singing some song together, not even kidding (btw, will be uploading a video of us soon). Love your beagle and sometimes let him howl and sit there and enjoy his howling.
