My little basset hound puppy has a pollen allergy. the vet prescribed some antibiotics to aid the healing of his skin which was sore from the itching. But can anyone offer an explanation why he smells like an old sock?? could the smell be linked to the allergy? is there anything i can do reduce the smell.

Has he had any thyroid testing?  I believe that allergy testing isn't always that acurate.  Just thinking re. the skin and smell could be a thyroid problem??  How are his ears?

Hiya,

Allergy testing is very much more accrate than it used to be, the specialists in this area used to say that the blood testing method was less effective than the skin tests but they have mostly done a u turn now with the advancement of the tests most recommend the blood tests and they are pretty accurate - though to be reliable they need to be done or re-done at a year old as the tests can be mis-leading before they are mature enough.

With regards to the smell, it's possible that his skin is infected, which would cause it to smell.  Lots of things can cause smell, like ear problems which are common in Bassetts, gastro problems, thyroid problems, probably worth checking with the vet.

To be honest his ears seem fine (touch wood). I've spoken with the breeder who has recommended giving half of a low dose Piriton tablet to combat the allergy, but only after about 3 days after he completes the course of anitbiotics. I'm also washing him down with Hibisrub which really does seemed to have helped him because is not iching so much now.

If he's smelling like an old sock LOL - love your description! It could be a fungal infection. The Ab's should clear the infection and it may be a good idea to start bathing him with a microbial balancing / anti fungal shampoo like Etiderm or Sporal D - I now use Sporal D every 3-4 weeks on my Cavalier who has pollen allergies which affect his skin and it works a treat. Ask your ve first though  :-)

Is he quite a wrinkly pup?  I would be tempted to have a look at his legs as they tend to be the wrinkliest part from what I've seen.

Yes he is quite wrinkly, lots of loose foldy skin. the vets advised i wash him down with hibiscrub, which I'm doing everyday & he seems better for it.

we're going to a puppy party tomorrow that being held at the vets, so I might ask her then about the shampoos ;o)

PS: thanks to everyone, being a first time dog owner I am abit paranoid and abit clueless too.