smelly dog

Question
My Lhasa Apso is 13yrs old and for the last 3mths or so has started to smell terribly. He licks his front legs and chest constantly and won't stop no matter how we try. I have to bath him about twice a week as he is making the whole bungalow smell. I dry him well in all creases etc (with hairdryer). Nothing to do with ears or teeth, he had these both cleaned 5weeks ago while under for a small op on his paw. The vet said it would probably disperse once the bacteria in his mouth had gone but it hasn't. I've got to say that it is driving myself and husband crackers. He has always slept at our bedroom door in his dog bed and keeps us awake with the incessant licking. He does spend nearly all day either in his bed or on a dog cushion, he is not active at all  wants to go for a walk but can't manage far, I end up carrying him the rest of way home. I have told the vet all this but have got nowhere. Now my husband moans at him because of this. I am at my wits end. HELP PLEASE.

Answer
Boy, I couldn't begin to guess where his smell is coming from, except you have eliminated teeth and ears. I would keep him groomed short all over (particularly around his mouth), and maybe bathe him with a good medicated shampoo. Clean his ears more frequently and be sure to keep his nails cut short. Some of it could possibly be his anal glands.

As to his obvious pain issues, give him a good glucosamine/condroitin supplement every day, and maybe give him baby aspirin on the days he seems to be really bad. The licking can be due to pain issues. You might also want to consider getting him into a veterinary chiropractor; an adjustment just might help whatever is hurting him. http://www.avcadoctors.com/search_for_avca_certified_doctor.htm