Survey Reveals Surprising Rankings of Dogs' Favorite and Least Favorite Scents

In a fascinating survey conducted by Eight Inc., based in Minato, Tokyo, 366 dog owners shared insights into their pets' favorite and least favorite scents. The findings reveal a deep connection between dogs and their olfactory preferences, indicating that scents significantly affect their behavior and well-being. Survey Highlights According to the results, a notable 78% of respondents reported that their dogs have preferred smells, while 55% noted their pets have undesirable odors. This suggests that dogs, similar to humans, have distinct likes and dislikes when it comes to scents. Most Liked Scents The most favored scent, according to the survey, is meat or the aroma of grilled dishes, attracting 44 votes. This indicates a strong association between dogs and the smell of food, which likely evokes excitement and anticipation. Following closely, the smell of dog food or treats received 35 votes, further affirming that dogs are naturally drawn to food-related scents. Interestingly, both family members' scents and the smell of feet, socks, and shoes garnered 25 votes, showing that dogs find comfort in familiar, everyday odors, despite their unusual nature. Other notable mentions include: - Paw scent: 13 votes - General food aroma: 13 votes - Natural scents such as plants and soil: 12 votes - Citrus scents: 10 votes Dogs also showed an affinity for their own scent (9 votes) and various types of clothing, including underwear (8 votes), alongside baked goods like bread and dairy products. Least Liked Scents On the flip side, the survey revealed that dogs have a clear aversion to some odors. Unsurprisingly, the top disliked scent was that of excrement and urine, with 21 votes, likely due to their innate cleanliness instincts. Alcoholic beverages and any stimulating smells followed closely behind, capturing 17 votes, while citrus scents appeared again here, with 16 votes, indicating a split opinion on this particular scent. Other unpleasant odors assessed include: - Artificial scents from perfumes and air fresheners: 12 votes - Generally offensive smells: 10 votes - Tobacco: 9 votes - Acidic smells: 9 votes - Spicy odors like horseradish: 8 votes Additionally, strong animal odors and sweat were also noted, reflecting dogs' preferences for cleaner environments. The survey results intact suggest that while dogs generally have contempt for pungent or offensive odors, there exists individual variation that can complicate understanding their scent preferences. Conclusion The study offers valuable insights into the sensory world of dogs and highlights the importance of recognizing their scent preferences and aversions. Understanding these preferences can aid in providing a more comfortable and enjoyable living environment for dogs, enhancing their well-being and happiness. For dog owners, knowing what scents they should introduce or avoid can deepen the bond between them and their pets. To learn more about these findings and for detailed data, check out the full article here.

About the Survey

Conducted on May 16, 2025, the survey utilized an internet-based approach, confirming a diverse range of opinions from male and female respondents across various age groups. For a deeper dive into dog food options that cater to these preferences, explore our related articles, including a list of highly palatable and safe dog foods available here.