Why Does My Shih Tzu Smell? 6 Common Causes and Fixes
How we researched this guide: This article is based on VCA Animal Hospitals, a 2024 Royal Veterinary College VetCompass study of Shih Tzus, and American Shih Tzu Club grooming advice. Last reviewed: September 2026.
A clean, healthy Shih Tzu should not smell bad. If your dog has a strong odor even after a bath, something is usually causing it, and many causes are treatable. Here are the most common reasons and what to do about each.
Common Causes of Odor at a Glance
| Where the smell is | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Mouth | Dental disease | Vet dental exam, daily brushing |
| Ears | Ear infection | Vet exam and ear cleaning plan |
| Rear end, fishy smell | Anal sac problems | Vet check |
| Skin, musty or greasy | Yeast or bacterial skin infection, often linked to allergies | Vet exam and medicated shampoo |
| Face | Food, tears, or moisture trapped in facial hair | Daily face cleaning and trims |
| Whole coat | Dirt, mats, or rolling in something | Bath, brushing, and mat removal |
1. Dental Disease
Bad breath is often the first sign of gum disease. A 2024 Royal Veterinary College study found periodontal disease was the most common specific problem in Shih Tzus, affecting 9.5 percent in a single year. See our teeth care guide.
2. Ear Infections
Ear disorders affected 5.5 percent of Shih Tzus in the same study. A yeasty or sour smell, head shaking, scratching, redness, or discharge all need a vet visit. See our ear care guide.
3. Anal Sac Problems
A strong fishy smell, scooting, or licking under the tail can mean the anal sacs are full or impacted. Anal sac impaction was the second most common specific problem in the RVC study, at 7.4 percent. Your vet can empty the sacs and check for infection. See our poop and anal gland guide.
4. Yeast and Skin Infections
VCA Animal Hospitals lists the Shih Tzu among the breeds prone to yeast dermatitis. Signs include itching, redness, a musty odor, and scaly, flaky, or greasy skin. VCA notes that yeast problems are often linked to allergies and increased oil production in the skin, and are usually treated with medicated shampoos, sometimes with oral medicine. Read our itchy skin guide.
5. A Dirty Face and Tear Stains
Food, water, and tears can collect in the hair around the mouth and eyes, where moisture leads to odor. Wipe the face daily with a soft, damp cloth, dry it well, and keep the hair around the eyes and mouth trimmed. If eye discharge is heavy or colored, see your vet. See our eye care guide.
6. Coat Care and Bathing
Mats trap dirt, moisture, and odor against the skin. The American Shih Tzu Club suggests a bath about every three weeks for a pet Shih Tzu, with thorough brushing before the bath and complete drying afterward. Use a gentle dog shampoo, never human shampoo. See our shampoo guide and brush guide.
See your vet if: the smell returns within days of a bath, your dog is itchy or has red, greasy, or flaky skin, you see ear discharge, your dog is scooting, or bad breath comes with drooling or trouble eating. Strong odor is often a sign of a treatable health problem.
How to Keep Your Shih Tzu Smelling Fresh
- Brush daily and check for mats.
- Bathe about every three weeks, or as your vet advises.
- Dry the coat fully after baths and walks in the rain.
- Wipe the face daily.
- Brush teeth daily.
- Check ears weekly.
- Wash bedding regularly.
- Keep a short sanitary trim around the rear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Shih Tzu smell bad even after a bath?
Odor that returns quickly usually has a health cause, such as a yeast or skin infection, ear infection, dental disease, or anal sac problems. See your vet.
Why does my Shih Tzu smell like fish?
A fishy smell often comes from the anal sacs. Scooting or licking under the tail are other signs. Your vet can check and empty them.
Are Shih Tzus prone to yeast infections?
Yes. VCA Animal Hospitals lists the Shih Tzu among breeds prone to yeast dermatitis, which causes itching, redness, and a musty smell.
How often should I bathe my Shih Tzu?
The American Shih Tzu Club suggests about every three weeks for a pet Shih Tzu, with a full brush-out before and complete drying after.
Why does my Shih Tzu’s face smell?
Food, water, and tears can collect in the facial hair. Wipe the face daily, dry it well, and keep the hair trimmed. See your vet if eye discharge is heavy.
Sources
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Yeast dermatitis in dogs
- Dale F, Brodbelt DC, West G, Church DB, Lee YH, O’Neill DG. Demography, common disorders and mortality of Shih Tzu dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK. Companion Animal Health and Genetics, 2024
- American Shih Tzu Club: Grooming the companion dog
This article is for general information. It is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Read our medical disclaimer.
