Luxury for the Four-Legged Friend: A Scented Business or an Olfactory Dilemma?

The renowned fashion company Dolce & Gabbana recently introduced a new line of fragrances specifically for dogs: the "Fefé" perfume. Equipped with "enveloping and warm notes of Ylang-Ylang, the clean and enveloping touch of musk, and the woody, creamy undertones of sandalwood," this fragrance is explicitly aimed at well-scented canines. The price of 99 euros (109 dollars) clearly signifies that it is a true luxury item. With a splendid advertising campaign that showcases the perfectly styled dog, Dolce & Gabbana pulls out all the stops. However, while the eyes of onlookers sparkle, experts raise a cautionary finger: "This is entirely for the benefit of the owner, not the dog," explains Daniel Mills, Professor of Veterinary Behavioral Medicine at the University of Lincoln in England. Dogs possess an exceptional sense of smell that helps them understand the world around them – whether through scents from other dogs, humans, food, or even potential dangers. Applying strong odors could overwhelm these subtle signalers, leading to social confusion and problems among dogs. Moreover, there is a risk that altered scents could mislead other dogs, potentially causing misunderstandings or even aggression. Mills emphasizes that the perfume is thus more aligned with the aesthetic preferences of the owners rather than the well-being of the animals.