Some vets and pet-owners skeptical of Dolce & Gabbana’s new perfume for dogs

ROME — Fashion house Dolce & Gabbana has made headlines with the launch of a new alcohol-free perfume for dogs named ‘Fefé’, inspired by Domenico Dolce’s beloved poodle. While the luxury fragrance has been certified safe for animal use and received positive feedback from some pet owners and veterinarians, not everyone is convinced of its safety and appropriateness.

The perfume, priced at 99 euros ($108) for 100 milliliters (3.4 ounces), has undergone rigorous testing to ensure its suitability for pets. Dolce & Gabbana stated that the product follows a Safe Pet Cosmetics protocol, which guarantees a level of safety comparable to that required for human cosmetics. Bureau Veritas Italia, a reputable company specializing in inspection and certification services, has recognized the compliance of the perfume with this protocol.

According to the company, dog owners who have tried ‘Fefé’ report that their pets find the fragrance gentle and enjoyable. Veterinarians have also given their approval, as indicated on the dedicated webpage for the product. However, some veterinarians caution against the use of perfumes on dogs, citing concerns that they may interfere with the animals‘ sense of smell and mask odors that could be indicative of underlying health issues.

Federico Coccía, a veterinarian in Rome, emphasized the importance of dogs‘ sense of smell in their daily interactions and health assessments. He explained that dogs rely on smells to recognize people and detect potential health problems, making it crucial not to disrupt their natural olfactory abilities. Covering up odors with perfume could potentially hinder the diagnosis of dermatological conditions and other health issues.

Despite differing opinions among veterinarians, groomers like Aliof Rilova Tano at La Boutique delle Birbe in Rome express support for using fragrances on pets. Tano believes that a pleasant scent can enhance the bond between dogs and their owners, especially for those who consider their pets as part of the family. Grooming customers, such as Mariarita Ricciardi, appreciate the added touch of a fragrance that contributes to the overall well-being and appearance of their pets.

On the other hand, some pet owners, like Francesca Castelli, view the use of perfumes on animals, particularly high-end brands, as an unnecessary form of humanization. Castelli and others who share her perspective prefer to maintain their pets‘ natural scent and avoid potentially altering their behavior or health with artificial fragrances.

In conclusion, the introduction of ‘Fefé’ by Dolce & Gabbana has sparked a debate among pet owners, veterinarians, and grooming professionals regarding the use of perfumes on dogs. While some embrace the idea of enhancing their pets‘ grooming routine with a luxurious fragrance, others remain cautious about potential risks and the impact on animals‘ well-being. As the discussion continues, it is essential for pet owners to consider their pets‘ individual needs and preferences when deciding whether to incorporate perfumes into their care routine.