Dachshunds, the easily identifiable wiener dogs, are friendly little pooches with lively personalities. Doxies don't generally need bathed often, and are not prone to the “doggie smell” that many breeds develop over time. If your stretched pooch starts to emit a distinctive odor, see your vet for a checkup.
Odor Equals Trouble
Unlike many dog breeds, you won't decide it's bath time for little Oscar just by the way he smells. Doxies typically don't have a doggie odor and can usually go months between baths. Any unusual odor typically means there's something medically amiss, and you're smelling the results of the issue. Sniff around your doxie to see if the smell emanates from any particular area, as that can help you narrow down what the issue may be. Visit your vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan to heal your doxie and help him smell fresh as a daisy once more.
Flappy Ear Follies
Your doxie's ears are long and flappy, which add to his overall cuteness but they can also easily lead to ear infections. Their heavy, floppy nature prevent proper air circulation, meaning any moisture trapped inside creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and yeast. Ear mites can move in, creating a coffee ground-like discharge as they feed off his ear wax and oils. Your vet will prescribe medications to correct the problem, and you can help prevent a recurrence by checking his ears once a week and wiping them clean with a damp cotton ball.
Skin Issues
If the stink seems to hover around your pooch like a cloud, he may have developed a skin infection. Doxies are prone to skin issues, and can develop them sometimes without rhyme or reason. Yeast infections create greasy, hairless areas with a particularly yeasty smell. Seborrhea can cause dry or greasy flakes on the skin, sometimes accompanied with an odor. Your vet may prescribe medications to help combat the problem and suggest a change in your doxie's diet to help offset these issues in the future.
Dental Drama
Stinky breath generally comes with the territory when you have a dog, but doxies are prone to dental problems more than other breeds. Tartar build-up leads to gum infections and causes tooth decay. This can result in unusually stinky breath and even lead to kidney, liver or heart damage from tooth loss. If your doxie's breath could wilt flowers, see your vet for a complete dental exam and treatment plan. Once his chompers are taken care of, have your vet clean your doxie's teeth once or twice a year, and brush them every day at home to keep them healthy.
Always check with your veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet, medication, or physical activity routines. This information is not a substitute for a vet’s opinion.
References
Writer Bio
Jane Williams began her writing career in 2000 as the writer and editor of a nationwide marketing company. Her articles have appeared on various websites. Williams briefly attended college for a degree in administration before embarking on her writing career.