What does your basset smell like (on a good day)?

I read somewhere that the hound stink is something to do with oils on their skin and regular dog shampoo can make it worse

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It is the oil itself but the bacteria and yeast that feed off of it that is the source of most odor. Keep in mind some bacter and yeast on the skin is normal and th imune system normally keeps them in check. but thinks like allergies, seborrhea deeper skin fold and the like can create an in blanace and allow the yeast and/or bateria to proliferate,

While it is poissible that over bathing with a harsh shampoo could dry out a dogs skin causing it to release more oils to hold in moisture. which then becomes even more food for bacteria and yeast this is rarely what happens.

Frequent shampoos are the mainstay in treating many dernalogical condition revoling around odor, bacteria and yeast. It is best if the shampoo is ph balanced for a dog 7 rather than a human 5 but provided it is rinsed well . That is the secret to prevent the skin from drying out Rinsing the dog well until all traces of the shampoo are removed. If this is done there is little likelihood a shampoo would lead to excessively dry skin. Using a medicated shampoo and leaving in contact for at least 15 minutes can dramatical reduce the bacteria/and or yeast population on the skin resolve odor issues for a longer period of time. Grooming aid ie doggie wipes, hound glove etc can remove excess oil and some wipes also contain antimirobial agents that help keep yeast and bacteria in check. There a medical/dermalogica issues that can only bew resolved through frequent bathing like seborrhea which basset are more prone to than the average dog.

Notice the so callled hound odor fie. frito smell occurs and is stronger in those areas where yeas and bacteria tend to proliferate, ears, toes and skinfolds. it is not mearly coincidence,