What Does It Mean When Dogs' Feet Smell Like Corn Chips? Here's When To Worry

Frito feet (also known as corn chip feet or popcorn paws) is just one of the many aromas that emanate from dogs, all of which can have different meanings. Two types of bacteria are responsible for the corn chip odor, pseudomonas and proteus, and they are both normal. Because they don't sweat in the same way humans do, "The only place dogs have to cool down is on the bottom of their feet," Dr. Amy Attas, VMD, explained to the American Kennel Club (AKC). Bacteria thrives in moist environments, so a dog's paws are the ultimate habitat.

The level of corn chip smell often depends on the type of canine. "Certain breeds of dogs are more prone to this smell than others," Dr. Audrey Wystrach told People. "For example, breeds with excessive skin folds, such as bulldogs, pugs, and Shar Peis, are more likely to develop this smell ... Additionally, breeds with heavy coats, such as golden retrievers, Labrador retrievers, and Saint Bernards, are also more likely to develop this smell as the fur can trap moisture and bacteria."

So, don't worry if your pups' paws remind you of Tostitos. It's pretty standard (and it's also okay for you to purposely take a whiff anytime you want). That said, you'll want to seek medical help if you notice redness, swelling, bumps, discharge, hair loss in the footpad area, excessive licking, or a different smell coming from their paw. Any of those symptoms can indicate a more serious issue, like a doggy yeast infection, that requires treatment.

Maybe you don't love the smell of bacteria in your face and you're wondering how to get rid of Frito feet. Well, there's good news and bad news. The bad news is, as Dr. Attas laid out for AKC, "Dogs want to smell like dogs. You don't want to mask the odor or add something to it." You really don't want to mess with your pup's natural scents too much.

The good news is there are a few things you can do to control corn chip feet a bit, such as using unscented wipes made especially for dogs that can help mitigate some of the smell and keep your pooch's paws squeaky clean. If it's really overwhelming, you can also talk to your vet about medicated wipes or other topical treatments. Dr. Lori Teller assured Houston Public Media, "It's definitely something that can be addressed and dealt with."

Even though dogs should smell like dogs, it's always a good idea to make sure they are properly bathed and groomed. This can help with corn chip feet, but it's also important for their overall health. Giving your pup a little extra pampering when it comes to their paws may lessen the Frito smell, but it will also keep your dog's feet in good shape.

To do this, you have to make sure your pup is comfortable with you handling their paws. It's best to get them used to you rubbing their footpads, spreading their toes, and trimming their nails when they're as young as possible, so they don't give you a hard time. Then, Dr. Dwight Alleyne told the AKC that he suggests washing their paws with a shampoo made for dogs and trimming any excess fur between their toes.

It's also important to keep your dogs nails short and dry their paws thoroughly after bath time is over to prevent bacteria from growing. It's not necessary to wash your pup's paws after every walk, but it's a good idea to give the them some love during their regular baths, and use those unscented wipes if you come back from a particularly muddy or dusty trip outside.