Smelly dogs may break up couples and drive friends away

Almost a third of owners admitted that their pets' bad habits had prevented friends and family from coming to their homes, the 'Daily Mail' reported.

More than half said they had not been invited to other people's houses for fear that they would bring their dog, according to the survey by UK-based hygiene firm, Byotrol.

The most offensive bad odour was said to come from animals who had rolled in something nasty outdoors. Other passion-killers included the smell of wet dog, flatulence and musty ears, the paper quoted Daily Telegraph as reporting.

Disgruntled friends and relatives objected to both the smell and the unpleasantness of stray hair covering sofas and carpets.

As many as 110 out of 2,000 dog lovers said arguments over the smell of their beloved furry companion had forced them to say goodbye to a loved-one for good.

Animal behaviourists believe dogs roll in faeces or decomposing material to 'scent camouflage' themselves and avoid being detected by their prey.

Other bad odour hazards can include dietary or intestinal problems, bad breath and gum disease.

Londondogforum.Co.Uk advises owners to regularly brush and bath their pets to keep them in a healthy condition.

Pungent paws or musty-smelling ears can be a sign of a yeast infection.