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Odor

19 15:58:52

Question
Vixxen is a 17 month old boxer who seems to have an odor problem. She smells like a wet dog even when she is dry. We thought it might me due to an ear infection she had but after relieving her of that problem she continues to smell. Nothing we can't handle of course, just a nuisance is all. Can you tell me why this is, or recommend something I can do to rid her and us of this issue? Or Are boxers just naturally stinky?

Answer
Hi Mark,

No, Boxers are not normally stinky, providing she's a full bred Boxer.  Bassett Hounds are a bit odorous because they produce an oil in their skin...Boxers don't.  You may want to have her skin scraped and tested for mange, staph or yeast just incase.  You can ask your vet if one of these conditions may be the problem.

Many skin problems are caused by allergies, food allergies included.  You may want to try to switch her food to a higher quality food such as Solid Gold, Canidae or California Natural.

Bathing her more frequently may help as well.  If she has skin irritations, an oatmeal shampoo may help her out.

I would talk to your vet and see what he/she suggests.  Don't let them tell you that all dogs stink (they don't) or that Boxers are naturally smelly (they aren't).