Bassets with bad smell

Question
We have 2 lovely 2 year old bassets-brother and sister-they have been spayed/neutered.We brush them and feed them expensive import dog food for sensitive tummies but no matter what we do they have a seriously bad smell.This is offensive to anybody who walks into our home and we cannot keep the pets outside all the time.The smell is like stale hoover bags combined with salty over sterilised water.I don't know what to do anymore.We cannot pinpoint the smell to ears or skin-it just seems a general bad odour.There cushions/covers also have this smell even if you wash it.What can we do-please advise urgently.Sonya

Answer
Hi Sonya,

BH's, like scent hounds, produce an oil in their skin/coat which enables the scent to 'stick'.  This can make them smell like stale cheese.  :)

A good bath once a week (if they really stink) or every other with a gentle shampoo will help.  You can use babywipes in between bathing, paying special attention to the armpits and any skin folds around the head and neck.

I put goldbond powder in mine's armpits (it's his deodorant) and that seems to help as well.  The warmer it is outside the worse they seem to smell.

I have also found that not using any type of pet bed helps.  I have comforters, pillows and blankets piled up for them to use as beds because I can toss them in the wash once a week (or more if need be) and keep up with it.  There is no stuffing for the smell to seep into.  You may just have to throw away what you've got and start over.

I don't know what kind of charity shops or second hand markets you have but those are great sources for cheap blankets!