Healthy Shih Tzu dogs usually have cool and moist noses. If you see any unusual dryness in the nose of your Shih Tzu, this could indicate a health issue. Remember, if your dog's nose is consistently dry and your pet shows other symptoms, the advice of a vet should be sought.

Here are 5 things that can contribute to dry nose in dog, and how you can prevent it from happening again.

1. Check whether your Shih Tzu has just woken up after a nap or not

Shih Tzus, or dogs in general, will have a dry nose for about 30 minutes after waking up. This is most common among deep-sleeping dogs that do not wake up several times while sleeping. If your dog has just woken from a night of slumber or even a midday nap, simply wait for about thirty minutes and check his or her nose again for dryness.

2. Has the Shih Tzu been near a source of heat?

If your Shih Tzu has been lounging near a source of heat, such as a fireplace or radiator, his or her nose could be dry. The heat emitted from these sources has the ability to suck out the moisture. If you see your Shih Tzu lying close to a heat source, you may consider moving his bedding or other items to a different part of your home.

3. Is your Shih Tzu still drinking normally?

If your pup is not well-hydrated, his nose will become dry. It is important to keep fresh water out for your Shih Tzu at all times. It is also important to ensure that your pet is drinking plenty after being outside in hotter weather or after an exercise or play session. Dehydration can be extremely dangerous for dogs, so make sure to always keep fresh water available. If your dog doesn't seem interested, you may want to invest in a pet fountain that keeps the water flowing and is appealing to some pets.

4. Allergies can also cause dry nose among Shih Tzu dogs

You need to check your home for anything that could trigger allergies in your Shih Tzu. Plastic bowls can be a culprit, so you may want to consider switching to stainless steel, which also don't harbor as much bacteria as plastic. You can also evaluate your pet's food, treats, toys, and even bedding to see if any of these cause alleries that have lead to dry nose.

5. Overexposure to the sun is another prominent reason behind dry nose in Shih Tzu dogs.

Oxerexposure to the sun can impact a dog's nose. If it is cracked or peeling, this is a sure sign of overexposure. Remember, Shih Tzus are more prone to heat exhaustion, so make sure to limit your pup's time in the sun, particularly on very hot days.

Tips For Shih Tzu Dry Nose Issues

2. Has the Shih Tzu been near a source of heat?