Smelly Belgian Shepherd

Question
Hi there,  I own a beautiful Belgian Shepherd female who is 7 and a half years old.  She still has thick glossy black fur but for the past year has developed a bad doggy odour.  I got her when she was 1 year old and never ever had any problems like this.  I would bath once a month, although it seemed like she didn't need it because she was virtually smell free.  I have tried a few different anti-bacterial washes and have recently started using a soft brush to massage down to her skin.  Even a $50 professional wash didn't help.  She smells just as bad within a couple of days.  I'm embarrassed when people comment about my smelly dog.  What can I try next?  She insists on living inside which doesn't help, I feel like I live in a dog kennel and am constantly cleaning!  thanks in advance for your advice. Anne

Answer
It sounds like your animal could possibly have a yeast infection of the skin. This condition has a characteristic odor and is hard to get it to go away. Your veterinarian should be able to give medicine to help if indeed this is the problem. He/she may reccomend medicated shampoos that are by prescription only. You also can try bathing once a week, or even every other day with the medicated shampoos that you are currently using, each time you bath the dog be sure to let the shampoo sit on the animal for at least 10-15 minutes so it has time to work. Hope this helps.