Understanding and Fixing Your Shih Tzu's Stinky Face

If you're a Shih Tzu owner, you're likely familiar with the infamous "stinky face" that can come with owning one of these adorable dogs. The truth is, Shih Tzus are prone to facial folds, which can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to a strong, unpleasant odor.

This is due to the breed's unique facial structure, which features deep folds on the face. As mentioned in the article, "Shih Tzus have a flat, short muzzle and a distinctive facial profile, with a short, upturned nose and a prominent underbite."

To keep your Shih Tzu's face smelling fresh, regular cleaning is essential. Regularly wiping down your Shih Tzu's face with a damp cloth can help reduce the risk of bacterial buildup and keep their face smelling sweet.

Broaden your view: Shih Tzu Face

A stinky face on your Shih Tzu can be a real problem. The smell might be coming from their face or mouth, or it could be present elsewhere on their body.

See what others are reading: Shih Tzu Clean Face Cut

Skin fold infections and pyoderma on their face are common causes of stinky face. These conditions can cause a strong, unpleasant odor.

Dental problems, ear infections, and wounds under their fur can also cause a stinky face. A quick visit to the vet will help determine the cause.

A general strong or unpleasant odor around their face and body, particularly their back end, could be a sign of digestive tract issues, a UTI, or impacted anal glands.

Expand your knowledge: How to Trim a Shih Tzu Face

If you're having a hard time getting rid of your Shih Tzu's bad odor, it's essential to seek professional help. Your veterinarian can provide guidance and advice on how to address the issue.

Reaching out to your veterinarian is crucial if the bad odor is caused by a health condition or infection. The longer it goes untreated, the worse it will get.

Don't delay in addressing the stink, as it can have a significant impact on your dog's overall health. The sooner you can get your dog the help it needs, the better.

See what others are reading: Shih Tzu Dog Characteristics

Shih Tzus are prone to dental issues due to their small mouths and overcrowded teeth, which can lead to bad breath and gum disease.

Bad breath is a common cause of a smelly dog face, and you might be able to see calculus buildup on your Shih Tzu's teeth when they open their mouth.

Inflamed gums are another sign of dental problems, and if left untreated, it can lead to serious issues.

Skin problems, such as red, hairless, moist, or crusty areas, can also cause a stinky dog face, often due to allergies or parasites.

Shih Tzus are also prone to eye problems, which can lead to ocular discharge or epiphora, and if left untreated, can cause severe problems such as corneal ulcers.

Eye problems can be common in Shih Tzus, Pekingese, and Bulldogs, and it's essential to visit your vet if you notice any issues.

Shih Tzus have skin folds on their face that can get moist and infected, leading to nasty odors, and regular cleaning is necessary to prevent this.

Their shallow eye sockets can also lead to eye infections and problems with tear drainage, both of which can cause stinky smells.

For another approach, see: Shih Tzu Skin Problems Black Spots

Dental Issues can be a major contributor to a stinky dog face. Research from the Royal Veterinary College found that dental disease was the most commonly reported disorder of Shih Tzus in the UK.

Dental disease develops because an overgrowth of bacteria forms plaque, which then leads to tartar buildup. This results in gum disease (gingivitis) and bad breath. Shih Tzus are prone to dental disease due to their small mouths and overcrowded teeth.

Preventing dental issues is easier than treating them, so make regular tooth brushing a priority from a young age. Schedule regular checkups with your vet to spot dental issues before they become serious.

Eye problems can be a common cause of a stinky dog face, especially in breeds like Shih Tzus, Pekingese, and Bulldogs.

Certain eye disorders in dogs can lead to ocular discharge or epiphora, causing tears and mucoid discharge to crust around your dog's eyes, resulting in a smelly smell.

For another approach, see: Shih Tzu Eye Issues

Conjunctivitis, inward-growing eyelids, and damaged tear ducts are all eye issues that can cause a stinky smell.

If you notice this problem, it's essential to visit your vet, as the itchiness and discomfort can make your dog rub and scratch their face, leading to severe problems like corneal ulcers.

The stinky smell from eye problems can be accompanied by other signs, such as redness and swelling around the eyes, and discharge coming out of the eye canals.

In some cases, you might see goop or gunk in your dog's eyes, which is a clear sign of eye problems.

Eye problems can be a serious issue, but with prompt attention from your vet, you can help your dog feel more comfortable and prevent further complications.

Intriguing read: Shih Tzu Eyes Pop Out

You'll need to take your Shih Tzu to the vet to figure out the cause of the stinky face.

Fleas, mites, and ticks are common external parasites in dogs that can be treated with anti-parasite medication.

Your vet will discuss possible treatment and management options with you, from food trials and hypoallergenic diets to specific treatments aimed at reducing itching and infection.

In some cases, a referral to a veterinary dermatologist may be required to help manage your dog's allergy.

Medication to control itchiness and antifungal/antibiotic medication may be prescribed to deal with the infection.

Your vet will also recommend a medicated ear drop and an ear cleaner to resolve ear infections and inflammation.

Topical medication, anti-inflammatory meds, and antibiotics might also be prescribed.

To prevent ear problems, keep your dog's ears clean and dry, especially after swimming.

You can use pet-safe wipes to clean skin folds and prevent infections.

Regular grooming can help prevent tear staining and skin fold infections.

Keep your dog's hair groomed away from their eyes to avoid irritation.

If your vet diagnoses your dog with an ear infection, they may prescribe medicated ear drops to treat the infection and get rid of the smell.

It usually takes a few revisits to make sure the ear infection is successfully treated.

In severe cases, surgery may be recommended, but this is usually after conventional treatment is unsuccessful.

Don't wait to contact your vet if you notice signs of ear problems, such as head shaking, discomfort, discharge, redness, or malodour.

Recommended read: Shih Tzu Bumps on Skin

Stinky Dog Face can be a serious issue if left unaddressed. Regular visits to veterinary clinics can help prevent the buildup of fungi, bacteria, and parasites in your Shih Tzu's skin.

Bugs in your dog's teeth, ear canals, and inside the skin can lead to serious medical conditions.

A thorough check-up at the vet can ease off the pain and help your furry friend avoid costly vet checks.

Home remedies can be good for dealing with the consequences of a stinky dog face, but they often don't address the root cause.

You can try getting rid of the stinky face by showering your Shih Tzu's coat, removing the crust, or cleaning their teeth.

Most home remedies are good for dealing with the signs, but not the root cause.

Home remedies can be effective in the short term, but a vet visit is still necessary to ensure your dog receives proper medical attention.

A vet consultation typically doesn't take long, lasting around 15-30 minutes or less.

This quick visit won't make your dog feel uncomfortable.