Why Your Pet's 'Stinky Dog' Smell Won't Go Away

STORY AT-A-GLANCE

• Many dogs suffer from yeast infections of the skin and ears; they’re often caused by a type of yeast known as Malassezia pachydermatis (M. pachydermatis)
• It’s normal for these organisms to inhabit your dog’s skin, but when they begin to reproduce uncontrollably, infection develops
• If your dog is immunocompromised or on antibiotic therapy, she may be unable to control yeast overgrowth
• The most common spot for yeast infections is the ears; itching is a common yeast infection symptom, which can range from mild to severe
• The most important element to addressing a chronic yeast infection is diet; dogs with yeast need an "anti-yeast diet," which is also anti-inflammatory and species-specific
• You’ll also need to disinfect that area of your dog’s body where the yeast is present on a regular basis, via ear cleaning, bathing and/or foot soaks
• Many dogs with yeast infections improve solely from dietary changes and baths two to three times a week; it takes time and dedication but is effective and less toxic than using antifungal drugs