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My Shih Tzu puppy's ear smells bad. What should I do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | 3 months and 19 days old

Is it normal that my shih tzu's ear smell Not so bad but it has this odor, his ear does not have any discharge or whatsoever, his 4mos. And i havent cleaned his ear since then

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on May 17th, 2017

It is a possible sign of otitis, inflammation of the external ear canal.
If you notice brown wax-like ear discharge, it could be compatible with yeast infection, very common in dogs. On other hand yellow discharge could be due to a bacterial infection. You can clean the ear canal (just the external part) with specific products (like cleanaural) but if there is an infection medications will be needed.

Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on September 10th, 2018
This sign is compatible with a external ear canal inflammation/infection. Usually strong smell comes from an yeast or bacterial type of proliferation.
A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics ear drops may be needed.
Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on October 26th, 2017
It looks as though there may be an infection brewing in the ear. I would recommend an examination with your veterinarian to confirm infection and and rule out mites or foreign objects in the ear. Best of luck and I hope he improves soon.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jessica Desrosiers
Veterinary Technician
Published on January 2nd, 2020
You can try cleaning out his ear with an ear cleaner, however if it is smelly and bothersome, it likely needs to be seen by a vet to be cleaned thoroughly and antibiotics ear ointment started. I would let the people that own him know and see if you can get into his regular vet for care.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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