our black labs odor

Question
For the last month or so our 10 yr. old lab Rocket has had a very offensive odor. We thought it was because he lays in mulch sometimes, but that is not the culprit. We walk about 4 miles 5 times a week and Rocket has 2 ponds he swims in along the way.Rocket also loves the pool! Since he has had this odor we have bathed him at least once a week. Any information you could give us would greatly be appreciated. We have an appointment with our vet. next week so hopefully we will resolve this. Thanks so much, Shelley Colona & Rocket too!!!  

Answer
Check his ears.  Some ear infections create a horrible doggy odor that you may not realize comes from the ears.  It is easy to pick up the infections from swims in the ponds.  Some antibiotics from the vet should clear it up.  I think odor problems are worse as a dog ages.  My 12 year old Aster seems to produce a lot of stinky ear wax, although she really doesn't have an ear infection.  My friends have a younger half sister with the same problem.  Their 14 year old mother doesn't seem to have the problem.  You may need to clean his ears a couple of times a week.  You can use commercial ear washes or water with a good shot of vinegar to make it sterile.  

Frequent brushing should control the odor in a healthy dog.  Too frequent baths dry the skin.  Fanatic rinsing and conditioner help.  Baths can also lead to stinky ear infections.  

Post back and let me know what the vet finds.  My Aster loves visits to the river when I let her swim.