Why is it that after trips to the dog park your shih-tzu gets a fishy smell her this happened twice now sign she could be going in heat?

There are a few reasons why your shih-tzu might have a fishy smell after trips to the dog park.

Anal glands

One possibility is that your dog's anal glands are expressing. Anal glands are small sacs located on either side of the anus that produce a strong-smelling fluid. This fluid is normally released when your dog defecates, but it can also be expressed manually or if your dog is stressed or excited. The smell of anal gland fluid is often described as fishy or musky.

Skin infection

Another possibility is that your dog has a skin infection. Skin infections can be caused by a variety of things, such as bacteria, yeast, or parasites. If your dog has a skin infection, it may have a fishy smell coming from the affected area.

Ear infection

Ear infections can also cause a fishy smell. Ear infections are often caused by bacteria or yeast, and they can be very painful for your dog. If your dog has an ear infection, it may shake its head frequently, scratch at its ear, or have a discharge coming from its ear.

Vaginal discharge

If your dog is unspayed, it is possible that she could be going into heat. When dogs go into heat, they produce a vaginal discharge that can have a fishy smell.

If you are concerned about the fishy smell coming from your dog, it is important to take her to the vet to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Here are some tips to help prevent your dog from getting a fishy smell:

* Express your dog's anal glands regularly.

* Keep your dog's skin clean and dry.

* Clean your dog's ears regularly.

* Spay your dog if she is not already spayed.