Mary Allen
What is the reason behind Frito feet?
Have you ever noticed a distinct smell coming from your dog’s paws that resembles the aroma of corn chips? This unique scent has been nicknamed "Frito feet" by dog owners everywhere. While it may seem strange, there is a scientific explanation behind this phenomenon. The odor is caused by a combination of bacteria and yeast that grows on your dog’s paws.
Understanding the science behind it
The bacteria and yeast that cause Frito feet are naturally present on your dog’s skin. However, when they thrive in the warm, moist environment of your dog’s paws, they can begin to produce a strong odor. This smell is often described as musty or cheesy, but it resembles the scent of corn chips to many people. The scent is more noticeable when your dog has been walking or playing for a while, as their paws become warm and damp.
Bacteria and yeast on dog paws
Dogs are naturally covered in bacteria and yeast, just like humans. However, the types of microorganisms that live on dogs are different from those that live on people. When these microorganisms grow out of control, they can cause skin infections and other health problems. It’s important to keep your dog’s paws clean and dry to prevent the overgrowth of bacteria and yeast. Regular paw cleaning can also help reduce the odor associated with Frito feet.