How to keep Shih Tzu smell good

Shih Tzu Odor

#1 Regular Bathing and Grooming

Baths: Regularly bathing your little guy or gal helps remove accumulated skin oils and other stinky elements. Most Shih Tzu dogs do well with a bath once every three weeks, but if your sweetie tends to get smelly in between baths, you can increase this to every one to two weeks. Be sure to use an effective shampoo that rinses away body oil without causing dryness. And follow with a wash-out conditioner. For Shih Tzu dogs that tend to get smelly, we loveEarthbath Mediterranean Magic Deodorizing Dog Shampoo. This can be followed with their Oatmeal & Aloe conditioner.

Brushing: Regular brushing is essential to keep the coat clean and odor-free. This also gives you the chance to check for any skin problems that might be causing odor. For shaved or short coats, brush your Shih Tzu once a week. Long coats often require a full combing and brushing one to three times a week.

Body Wipes:Baths are an important foundation to keeping a Shih Tzu smelling nice, but not all puppies and dogs will stay odor-free in between baths due to urine splashes, specks of feces sticking to the coat and more odor-causing cling-on elements. For this reason, spot-cleaning can be very helpful in preventing and resolving bad odors. A grooming wipe likeEarthbath Green Tea Awapuhi Wipes are formulated clean and deodorize with all-natural ingredients.

Coat Spray: A coat spray can have a lot of benefits including protection from the summer sun's UV rays and winter's arid air, repelling irritants, and keeping hairs soft and shiny. And another great aspect is a fresh, pleasant fragrance. While this cannot take the place of regular baths and cleanings, a light spritz of a leave-in product can be just the thing to keep a Shih Tzu smelling pleasant.

One that we really love is theBark2Basics Salon Pets Grooming Sprays that are limited-ingredient, made-in-the-USA handcrafted spritzes with pretty amazing scents including blueberry pie, citrus & pomegranate, coconut & pineapple, peach, passion fruit, sweet Italian lemon and lavender & chamomile.

Maintaining your dog's dental hygiene is crucial and if a stinky odor is originating from your Shih Tzu's mouth, this is your sign that dental care needs to be better addressed. Since a strong unpleasant smell from the mouth can be sign of infection or tooth decay, the first step should be a vet visit to have potential dental issues ruled out.

Once that is complete, regularat-home dental care including brushing of your Shih Tzu's teeth with canine toothpaste, using dental sprays and providing dental chews, will help prevent tartar buildup and gum disease, thus reducing bad breath. For brushings, one product we like is theArm & Hammer for Pets Clinical Care Dental Kit; it contains a toothbrush, a safe paste and a fingertip brush and is sized well for most Shih Tzu dogs.

If your Shih Tzu's bad odor is coming from their behind and has a strong rotting fish or metallic smell, it may be anal glands. Anal glands are small glands located near the anus. They secrete a fluid that is unique to every dog and serves as a means of communication andterritorial marking. However, when these glands become impacted or infected, they can create significant discomfort, leading to behaviors like scooting (dragging their rear on the ground). The scooting can cause rupture and fluid leakage. One of the most noticeable signs is a fishy or metallic odor that is particularly strong and unpleasant.

Issus with broken skin should be treated by the veterinarian. And prevention by means of expressing these glands is a delicate process, typically done by a vet or a professional groomer.

A 'wet dog smell' often puzzles pet owners, especially after their dog has had a bath or been out in the rain. This odor is due to bacteria and yeast on the skin releasing unpleasant scents upon contact with water. To tackle this, it's vital to use an effective shampoo (refer to Step 1:Regular Bathing and Grooming) and ensure your Shih Tzu is thoroughly dried after getting wet, whether from a bath or rain. Here are some key tips:

• Towel Drying: Begin by using highly absorbent towels to gently but thoroughly blot and dab your Shih Tzu's coat. It's important to cover all areas, including the underbelly, paws, and ears. Microfiber towels like theBone Dry Pet Grooming Towel can be particularly effective as they are more absorbent and gentler on your dogs skin and coat.
• Using a Dog-Specific Hairdryer: For Shih Tzu dogs with longer coats, a towel might not be enough. In these cases, using a dog-specific hairdryer can be beneficial. These dryers are designed to be quieter and less intense than human hairdryers, which can be too hot and frightening for dogs. When using a dryer, keep it on a cool or low-heat setting to avoid overheating or burning your dog's skin.
• Technique Matters: Start from the back and move towards the front, drying in the direction of hair growth. This helps to avoid matting and tangles. Pay special attention to areas that retain more water, like the undercarriage and around the ears and tail.
• Ensure Complete Dryness: Ensure that your Shih Tzu is completely dry, not just on the surface, but also at the roots of their hair.

Maintaining a clean living environment for your Shih Tzu plays a crucial role in controlling and reducing odors. Dogs spend a considerable amount of time in their bedding and living spaces, and these areas can harbor odors if not cleaned regularly. Here are a few tips:

• Bedding Maintenance:Wash your Shih Tzu's bedding frequently. Use a mild, pet-safe detergent and ensure the bedding is completely dry before using again. This helps eliminate odors and prevents the growth of bacteria and yeast that can contribute to bad smells.
• Clean Living Spaces:Regularly clean the areas where your little guy or gal spends most of their time. This includes floors, carpets, and any furniture your dog has access to. Vacuuming carpets and upholstery can remove pet hair and dander that contribute to odors. Using pet-safe cleaning products can further help neutralize and eliminate odors.
• Air Quality: Ensure good ventilation in your home to help disperse any lingering odors. An air purifier can also be effective, especially in rooms where your Shih Tzu spends a lot of time.
• Regular Grooming Space Cleaning: Make sure to regularly clean and disinfect the area where you groom your Shih Tzu. This includes washing any towels, brushes, orgrooming tools used during grooming sessions.

A well-balanced diet plays a role in managing your Shih Tzu's overall odor. The right food not only meets their nutritional needs but also affects their skin and coat health, which in turn can influence their natural scent. Here are some tips:

• Quality of Dog Food: Opting forhigh-quality, balanced dog food is essential. Look for foods that contain the right balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals suited to your dog's breed, age, and health status. Premium dog foods often contain additives that improve skin and coat health, reducing odors.
• Fish Oil Supplements:Fish oil is known for its beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, which promote healthy skin and a shiny coat. However, its important to be cautious with the dosage. Excessive fish oil in a dogs diet can lead to a noticeable fishy smell emanating from their skin. This is because the fatty acids in fish oil, while healthy, can produce a strong odor when they are metabolized and excreted through the skin.
• Observation and Adjustment:Pay close attention to how dietary changes affect your Shih Tzu. If you notice an increase in odor after introducing new foods or supplements, it may be necessary to adjust their diet again.

#7 Address a Skin Yeast Infection

Skin yeast infections can be a common cause of unpleasant odors in Shih Tzu dogs. These infections are typically caused by an overgrowth of naturally occurring yeast (malassezia pachydermatis) on the skin. This overgrowth can be triggered by various factors including allergies, hormonal imbalances, or a weakened immune system.

• Symptoms of Yeast Infection: The most noticeable sign of a yeast infection on a Shih Tzu's skin is a strong, musty odor, often compared to moldy bread or cheese. Other symptoms can include itching, redness, irritation, and flaky or greasy skin. You may also notice changes in the coat, such as dullness or excessive shedding.
• Areas Affected: Yeast infections commonly affect areas that are warm and moist, such as the ears, between the paw pads, under the armpits, and around skin folds. These areas provide an ideal environment for yeast to thrive.
• Diagnosis and Treatment:If you suspect your Shih Tzu has a yeast infection, a visit to the veterinarian is recommended. The vet may take skin scrapings or swabs for testing. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications, either topical or oral, depending on the severity of the infection. If your Shih Tzu has has yeast infections before, and you are sure you recognize it as such, you can oftentreat this skin issue at home.

#8 Address Other Possible Health Issues

Persistent odors in Shih Tzu dogs, even with good grooming habits, may indicate an underlyinghealth issue. So, for stubborn odor issues that do not respond to the listed remedies, it's crucial to consult a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Some common health problems not mentioned above that can lead to unusual odors include:

• Bacterial Skin Infections: Bacterial infections in dogs often emit a foul or musty odor, varying with the bacteria type and infection severity. Infections impacting oil glands may produce a rancid smell, while a pungent scent from wounds suggests a serious infection needing urgent veterinary attention. Additionally, skin allergies can cause infections and odor due to persistent scratching and irritation.
• Ear Infections: Chronic ear infections, often more prevalent in dogs with floppy ears, can emit a strong, unpleasant smell and require medical attention.
• Metabolic Disorders:Conditions like diabetes or kidney disease can change a dog's bodily odors. For instance, diabetes can give the breath a sweet or fruity smell.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Problems in the digestive tract, including infections or dietary intolerances, can lead to bad breath or other body odors.

A veterinarian can perform a thorough examination and run necessary tests to determine the cause of the odor. They may recommend changes in diet, medication, specialized grooming routines, or other treatments based on the specific health issue. Addressing these underlying conditions is essential not just for controlling odors, but also for your dog's overall well-being and quality of life.

A Final Note

Having a canine family member that smells bad can affect the whole household and make cuddling a challenging task. Most odor problems can be remedied at home, but if your Shih Tzu does not respond, do please seek diagnosis and treatment from the vet.

Why Do Shih Tzus Stink?

In reality, your Shih Tzu shouldnt smell bad, so if it does it means something isnt quite right. So, if youre wondering why do Shih Tzus stink, it could be due to one of the following reasons.

Common Reasons Why Your Shih Tzu Smells Bad

Shih Tzus are cute and adorable little dogs which means we all like to pet and cuddle them and even sleep with them. So, if their odor is a bit off and doesnt smell great, we tend to notice that right away.

In general, if your Shih Tzu is healthy and clean it shouldnt be stinky. If yours is smelly, it could be from due to one of these common reasons.

Skin Conditions

Shih Tzus often have dry skin or other skin related issues. This can include Cushings Disease or Seborrhea.

I know that my Shih Tzu, Truman has yeast issues that can make him smell like cheese popcorn. (You can learn more about Truman here at Trumans Corner.)

If your dog is licking or scratching a lot, you should have your vet check them out for skin issues.

Allergies

If you have had your Shih Tzu for every long, you will have noticed that their eyes tend to drain, a lot. They can get a build-up of nastiness from their eyes and that can smell due to bacteria that thrive in a wet, warm environment.

This can be caused by seasonal allergies, allergies to their food, or other eye health issues.

Keeping this area clean will give your Shih Tzu some relief and reduce the smell.

You might also enjoy:

Why Do Shih Tzus Dig?

Why Do Shih Tzus Snore?

Why Do Shih Tzus Lick so Much?

What They Eat

A lot of dog foods are full of fillers, chemicals, and preservatives. These can cause issues for your Shih Tzu.

These issues can include intestinal issues that lead to gas. Your dogs food can also cause your Shih Tzu to exude more oil into its coat than it should. While these oils are necessary, if there is too much it can lead to bad odors.

Changing your dogs food can help with this issue. You can read about the top 9 dog foods for Shih Tzus here.

Your dogs food should contain both omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. Vitamin B is also good and will help improve your Shih Tzus skin.

Tooth Decay

You should have your vet keep a close eye on your Shih Tzus oral health. Just like humans, if your Shih Tzu has tooth decay it can lead to bad breath.

Periodontal disease can lead to plaque buildup and even tooth loss.

Your dog should have regular dental check-ups just like you.

Health Issues

Your Shih Tzu might be experiencing health issues. These can include:

• Ear infection
• Eye infection
• An anal gland issues
• Skin issues

It is always best to have your vet take a look at your Shih Tzu when you have concerns or if you think there might be underlying health issues. Keep in mind, your Shih Tzu shouldnt smell bad, so there is something going on that needs to be looked at and taken care of.

They Need to be Groomed

It may just be time for a bath. If your Shih Tzu doesnt have any health issues, skin issues, or eye issues, they might just need a bath.

I take Truman to the groomers about every six weeks, but you can give your Shih Tzu a bath in between grooming sessions if they need it.

A bath every three weeks wont hurt your Shih Tzu. Just be sure to use bathing products that are sensitive to the skin.

How Do You Keep a Shih Tzu Smelling Good?

Once you have made sure your Shih Tzu doesnt have any underlying health issues that are causing the odor, there are things you can do to make sure your Shih Tzu is smelling good, so those cuddles can continue.

There are several things you can do.

Brush Their Teeth

This is never an easy process as some dogs just simply wont allow it. However, if you can, you should brush your Shih Tzus teeth using a small toothbrush and toothpaste for dogs.

Dont use human toothpaste as it contains fluoride which is toxic to dogs.

You can try the Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Dental Kit. It will contain the right sized toothbrush as well as the correct toothpaste for your Shih Tzu.

Clean Their Face

As you well know, your cute little Shih Tzu does get a lot of gunk around their eyes.

I know Truman has a lot of issues with this. His eyes are large even by Shih Tzus standards and they tear a lot.

The best way to get rid of all of the tear stains and the discharge build up is with a face wipe. One product made for just this situation is the Arava Pet Eye Wipes. It will remove both the dirt crust and discharge.

Ive used them for a while now and have found they work really well.

Wash Their Ears

Youd be surprised how common it is for a Shih Tzu to get an ear infection. Not to mention, dirt in your dogs ear can lead to bad odors as well.

Every week, you should take a few minutes and clean the underside of your dogs ear.

You want to use a wipe that isnt too moist as excess moisture can lead to ear infections.

One wipe that works well is the Earthbath All Natural Hypo-Allergenic Grooming Wipes. They are good for adult dogs.

Clean Their Coat

You dont want to give your Shih Tzu a bath too often, but you do want to comb their hair daily or at least every 2 to 3 days with a good brush such as the Chris Christensen Original Little Wonder 20mm Pin Brush.

While you are combing them, you can add a leave-in spray that will keep them smelling fresh between shampoos. One option is the Buddy Splash Dog Deodorizer & Dog Conditioner.

A second option is using a grooming wipe. You will want to start at the top of the head and move downwards over your dog. Be sure to get the underside as well.

Related Questions:

Why Does My Shih Tzus Face Stink?

Both the food and the water you give your Shih Tzu gets stuck in the hair on their face. Over time, it drys and begins to smell.

Also, bacteria can grow on these food particles which also causes a nasty odor.

Why Does My Shih Tzus Breath Stink?

According to the American Kennel Club, The most common causes of bad breath in dogs are bad oral hygiene and periodontal diseaseIf your dog is not a chewer and you do not regularly brush his teeth or have his teeth cleaned, then the most likely cause of his bad breath is plaque build-up. Over time, poor oral hygiene can lead to periodontal disease.

To Sum it All Up:

There are a lot of reasons why your Shih Tzu might stink. They range from underlying health issues to skin issues, and even eye issues. See your vet when in doubt, and then consider adding additional grooming products to keep your Shih Tzu smelling great all the time.

Please Note:

This article is informational only and does not substitute for veterinary advice. Always check with your veterinarian if you are concerned about your Shih Tzus behavior or health. This article should not be considered in any way as veterinarian advice.