Dolce and Gabbana’s luxury perfume for dogs is causing quite a stir, with concerns raised by some animal welfare organizations. The high-end fragrance, inspired by Fefé, the pet dog of brand-owner Domenico Dolce, comes with a hefty price tag of over $100. While the perfume is marketed as alcohol-free and safe for pets, questions have been raised about the potential impact on animals.
The scent of the perfume boasts a blend of “fresh and delicate notes of Ylang Ylang, Musk, and Sandalwood” and is housed in an elegant green lacquered glass bottle with a 24-carat gold-plated paw. While the product has been certified as safe for animal use by the Safe Pet Cosmetics program, experts have raised concerns about the implications of using perfumes on dogs.
According to Donald Maurice Broom, a professor of animal welfare at the Cambridge Veterinary School, strong scents like those found in the perfume can have a negative impact on dogs’ ability to interpret their environment. Dogs rely heavily on their sense of smell to communicate and navigate the world around them, and overpowering scents can disrupt this vital process. Broom compares the effect of strong odors on dogs to being surrounded by blindingly bright light, making it difficult for them to distinguish important olfactory information.
While concerns have been raised about the potential negative effects of perfumes on dogs, some experts point out that certain scents can have a positive impact on canine behavior. For example, lavender and ylang ylang are known for their calming effects on dogs when used in moderation. These “lightly-scented products” can have a soothing effect on dogs without interfering with their sense of smell.
As the debate around Dolce and Gabbana’s perfume for dogs continues, it is essential to consider the potential implications of using such products on our furry friends. While some scents may have positive effects on dogs, it is crucial to be mindful of how overpowering fragrances can impact their well-being. Animal welfare organizations remind us to prioritize our pets’ natural senses and avoid anthropomorphizing them with unnecessary products.