Perfume for Pooches: Debate Erupts as Dolce & Gabbana Launches Canine Scents, Yet Many Vets Express Concerns
Dog owners might be tempted to share their favourite scents with their furry friends, but a new perfume for dogs, Fefe, has sparked controversy among vets and pet parents alike.
According to Federico Coccía, a vet based in Rome, dog perfume could pose a problem for veterinary diagnosis. The scent of a dog can help in diagnosing certain medical conditions, such as sebaceous dermatitis, but perfume can mask the natural smells that vets rely on to make diagnoses.
While some vets criticize dog perfumes, including Fefe, for potentially disrupting a dog’s sense of smell, others approve of the Fefe project. Domenico Dolce, the designer behind the perfume, is known for his love of dogs, and Fefe has been certified as suitable for animal use and follows the Safe Pet Cosmetic protocol.
Fefe features notes of ylang-ylang, musk, and sandalwood, and has been designed specifically for dogs. The fragrance, created by Emilie Coppermann, is alcohol-free and gentle on canine skin and noses, making it a safer option compared to human perfumes.
However, using perfume or cologne on dogs is generally not recommended unless the product is specifically formulated for pets. Strong fragrances and ingredients can cause irritation, allergic reactions, or even respiratory issues for dogs, whose olfactory systems are 40 times more sensitive than humans’.
Best practices for scenting dogs safely include using only pet-safe products designed for dogs, avoiding spraying near sensitive areas like the eyes, nose, mouth, or genital areas, testing new products on a small patch of skin first, preferring unscented grooming products or natural deodorizing sprays, and consulting your veterinarian if uncertain about any product.
In conclusion, while dog-specific perfumes and colognes can be safe when properly formulated and vetted, using human perfumes or unsuitably formulated sprays can negatively impact a dog’s health and comfort. Always choose products made expressly for dogs and consult veterinary professionals when in doubt.
[1] Source [2] Source [3] Source [4] Source [5] Source
- Despite the controversy, some pet owners might consider treating their beloved dogs to fashionable toys, like those found in the home-and-garden section, to enhance their pets' lifestyle.
- It's essential for pet parents to care for their cats' behavior and well-being, which includes providing them with appropriate toys to facilitate healthy playtime.
- When it comes to the fashion-and-beauty sector, many pet parents are increasingly prioritizing eco-friendly and sustainable pet products, such as organic, biodegradable toys, in their pets' lifestyles.
- A dog's sense of smell plays a crucial role in their overall well-being, and dog parents should be cautious about the kind of treats they offer their pets, as some human treats may pose a risk to their health.
- In addition to preventing the use of human perfumes and strong fragrances, pet parents should prioritize providing their pets with a clean and comforting home environment, which includes maintaining a clean home-and-garden space free of harmful chemicals.
