It's in the name of energy ratings; using less water at a colder temperature will reduce energy usage.
As for the smell "wet dog smell" is usually mold; rinse your plates of food remains before putting it in the dishwasher, clean out your filters regularly (not as necessary if you rinse beforehand), and run a hot, empty cycle with soda crystals. Also, leave it open to air out if it's not running (doesn't need to be open all the way, just enough for the insides to stay dry). All of that also applies to washing machines. Basically, moisture in a closed space will cause mold and smells.
I wouldn't worry about the rinsing thing with modern machines. Leaving the machine open to avoid mold is definitely advisable, though (some machines have vents for this, but most don't).
As for the smell "wet dog smell" is usually mold; rinse your plates of food remains before putting it in the dishwasher, clean out your filters regularly (not as necessary if you rinse beforehand), and run a hot, empty cycle with soda crystals. Also, leave it open to air out if it's not running (doesn't need to be open all the way, just enough for the insides to stay dry). All of that also applies to washing machines. Basically, moisture in a closed space will cause mold and smells.