All About Bloodhounds

All About Bloodhounds

Check out this answer from Consensus:

The research provides valuable insights into the bacterial causes of malodour in bloodhounds and demonstrates the efficacy of a topical essential oil-based treatment. These findings open up new avenues for odour control in bloodhounds and potentially other dermatological conditions involving microbiota. Further investigation into the interaction between topical treatments and cutaneous microbiota could enhance our understanding and management of such conditions.

Bloodhounds are renowned for their exceptional sense of smell, which makes them highly effective in tracking scents over long distances. This unique ability is attributed to their large nasal cavities and the high number of scent receptors. However, like many breeds, bloodhounds can experience specific health and hygiene issues, including cutaneous malodour.

Malodour in Bloodhounds

Recent research has explored the causes and potential treatments for cutaneous malodour in bloodhounds. Unlike in humans, where Staphylococcus and Corynebacterium spp. are linked to axillary malodour, these bacteria were not associated with malodour in bloodhounds. Instead, Psychrobacter and Pseudomonas spp. were found to be significantly more abundant in malodourous bloodhounds, suggesting a novel association of these bacterial genera with the condition1.

Study on Malodour Treatment

A study involving 27 bloodhound dogs from a boarding facility in South Texas investigated the effects of a topical product composed of essential oils and plant-derived essential fatty acids on malodour. The study was randomized, blinded, and placebo-controlled, ensuring robust results. Dogs with malodour were divided into treatment and placebo groups, receiving four weekly applications of either the topical product or a placebo1.

Results and Findings

The study found that the topical essential oil-based product significantly improved malodour in the treatment group. This improvement was accompanied by a shift in the bacterial community structure on the dogs’ skin. The treatment reduced the abundance of odour-causing bacteria, highlighting its potential as an effective solution for managing malodour in bloodhounds1.