Something smells, and this time you can blame it on the dog.

When bacteria and yeast on your pet’s skin starts to break down surface oils, the oxidation of the fat creates a foul smell. With healthy pets, this smell isn’t always offensive, but if your pet is spending extra time outdoors this summer, his odor may be reaching new levels of P.U. Washing your pet frequently can cause skin irritation or strip your pet’s coat of its natural luster and shine, which means you should only bathe your pet about once a month.

So how does a pet parent tackle the odor in between baths?

Grooming mists are an easy alternative that will keep your pet smelling clean and feeling fresh. While you can find conventional grooming mists at your local pet store, these are often filled with chemicals, such as phthalates and parabens that cause dry, itchy skin. By creating your own grooming spray with essential oils, you eliminate unhealthy chemicals and hydrate your pet’s skin, plus you get the added therapeutic benefits of essential oils. A winning combination! Try our easy, natural grooming spray recipe and check out the quick guide on choosing the perfect essential oil below.

Recipe for DIY Grooming Spray

You will need:

• 1 small spray bottle (about 1-2 ounces)
• 1 ounce of warm water
• 3-4 drops of an essential oil

Thoroughly wash your spray bottle with warm water and dry. Fill the bottle with one ounce of warm water and three to four drops of your favorite essential oil. Put the cap back on and shake vigorously (you will need to re-shake the bottle each time you use it). Mist your pet’s fur from about six inches away. Rub through his hair with your fingers or you can use a brush to spread the oils through the coat. The nose-worthy effects last about one week.

7 Essential Oils that are Best for Pets

Just like humans, pets will react to essential oils in different ways. Carefully observe how your pet reacts to an essential oil, especially with cats, as they’re generally averse to citrus essential oils. Avoid applying near the eyes, nose, anal or genital areas. Chamomile, Roman is effective for the relief of muscle pain. It has anti-inflammatory, anti-infectious and anti-parasitic properties. Eucalyptus helps with muscle aches and with breathing. The oil opens up the air passages and clears congestion. It also has a calming effect. Helichrysum is great for skin conditions, irritations and effective for pain relief. It is very therapeutic. Lavender is a gentle essential oil that is antibacterial. It is also nerve calming, a natural insect repellent and can be used for skin irritations. Niaouli is a powerful healing agent and is less likely to cause skin irritation. It's antihistaminic which it makes it great for skin problems caused by allergies. Peppermint is great for arthritis, dysplasia, sprains and strains. It stimulates circulation and the mind. Sweet marjoram has strong antibacterial properties and is a calming agent and muscle relaxant. It's good for bacterial skin infections, wound care and can be used as an insect repellant.