If you’ve noticed your Shih Tzu starting to smell a little… off, you’re not alone. Shih Tzus are a high-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming, and even with regular baths, that smell can sneak in from time to time. But the truth is, it’s not always about being dirty. Most odors come from specific areas of your dog’s body that need extra attention, especially their ears, eyes, and mouth. These spots are prone to moisture buildup, bacteria, and other little things that can turn into big stink. The good news is you can fix most of it pretty easily once you know where it’s coming from and what to use.
Smell Around the Nose and Eyes
One of the most overlooked causes of odor is the area right behind the nose and around the eyes. Even if your pup doesn’t have visible tear stains, that region can still trap moisture and develop bacteria. It’s a sensitive spot, and regular wiping alone doesn’t always cut it.
What helps:
We love using PawTree’s Tear Stain Remover Solution along with their Tear Stain Chews. The solution helps clean and soothe the area, while the chews work from the inside out to reduce staining and smell over time. It’s a simple routine that keeps this whole area fresh and clear, whether you see stains or not.
Smelly Ears
Shih Tzus have drop ears that hang close to their heads, which means airflow is limited and moisture gets trapped. That’s the perfect setup for wax buildup, yeast, or bacterial infections, all of which can cause some serious odor. If your pup has a smell coming from their ears, it’s time for a cleaning.
What helps:
We recommend PawTree’s Ear Wash. It’s gentle, easy to use, and helps keep the ears clean and dry. A weekly ear rinse can prevent a lot of discomfort and stop the smell before it starts.
Bad Breath
If your Shih Tzu’s breath makes you want to look the other way, you’re not alone. Bad breath is common in small breeds and often linked to plaque, tartar, or even digestive issues. And it’s not just unpleasant, it’s also a sign that your pup might need a dental routine.
What helps:
Try PawTree’s Plaque Control. This powder goes right onto their food and helps break down tartar while supporting better overall dental hygiene. It’s an easy fix that works in the background every day.
In Conclusion
Bad smells are more than just annoying, they’re usually signs that something needs attention. Whether it’s ears that need a good rinse, eyes that need support, or teeth that need cleaning, the goal is always the same: keep your Shih Tzu feeling good and smelling fresh.
A Few Tips to Stay Ahead of the Stink
– Wipe around the eyes daily, especially after meals
– Use tear stain chews even if stains aren’t visible
– Clean ears weekly with a gentle ear wash
– Add Plaque Control to their food daily
– Keep up with regular grooming and brushing
Once you get into the habit, this kind of care becomes second nature, and it makes a big difference in your dog’s comfort and cleanliness. Because when your Shih Tzu feels good, they act like it too.You can find all of our favorite PawTree products right here. And if you have questions or need help picking what’s best, just reach out, we’re happy to help!
