Things to check before raising a Shih Tzu
Things to check before raising a Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a small, affectionate, and charming breed that has been beloved for centuries.
Originally bred for companionship, these dogs are perfect for families and individuals who can dedicate time to their care and grooming.
However, raising a Shih Tzu requires attention to their physical characteristics, personality traits, common health concerns, and activity needs.
Below is an in-depth guide to understanding and caring for this delightful breed.
Physical Characteristics of Shih Tzus
The Shih Tzu is a toy breed, typically weighing between 9 to 16 pounds (4 to 7 kilograms) and standing about 9 to 10.5 inches (23 to 27 cm) tall at the shoulder.
They have a distinct appearance, characterized by:
Double Coat: A luxurious, flowing double coat that can be kept long or trimmed short for easier maintenance.
The coat is silky and can tangle easily, requiring daily brushing to prevent mats and ensure it stays healthy.
Their coat comes in various colors, including gold, white, black, brindle, and combinations of these, making each dog unique.
Flat Face: Their brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure gives them a distinctive look but can lead to breathing difficulties, especially in hot or humid weather.
This requires owners to monitor their activity levels and avoid strenuous exercise during peak temperatures.
Large Eyes: Shih Tzus have big, round eyes that are expressive and full of character.
However, their prominent eyes are more exposed and susceptible to dryness, scratches, and infections.
Regular check-ups and cleaning around the eyes are crucial.
Short Muzzle: Their short muzzle contributes to their adorable appearance but can lead to issues like snoring, difficulty breathing, and overheating.
Special care should be taken during feeding and exercise to prevent overexertion.
Shih Tzu Personality Traits
Shih Tzus are known for their friendly, affectionate, and outgoing nature.
They are loyal to their families and tend to get along well with children and other pets.
Some key personality traits include:
Loving Companions: Shih Tzus thrive on human interaction and enjoy being the center of attention.
They are happiest when they are around their family and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
Low Prey Drive: Unlike some breeds, Shih Tzus do not have a strong hunting instinct, making them less likely to chase smaller animals.
This makes them ideal for homes with cats or other small pets.
Stubborn but Trainable: While intelligent, they can be stubborn, so patience and positive reinforcement are essential during training.
Use treats, praise, and consistency to encourage good behavior.
Alert but Not Yappy: They make good watchdogs, alerting their owners to strangers, but they are not excessive barkers when properly socialized.
Early exposure to various sounds and situations can help them remain calm.
Common Health Issues in Shih Tzus
Shih Tzus are generally healthy, but they are prone to certain genetic and breed-specific health problems:
Brachycephalic Syndrome: Their flat faces can cause breathing difficulties, especially in hot or humid weather.
Avoid excessive exercise during heat and ensure they have a cool environment.
Providing a harness instead of a collar during walks can reduce pressure on their trachea.
Eye Problems: Shih Tzus are prone to eye injuries, infections, and conditions like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) or dry eye.
Regular cleaning and use of vet-recommended eye drops can help prevent issues.
Hip Dysplasia: Though less common in small breeds, some Shih Tzus may develop this condition.
Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding high-impact activities can reduce the risk.
Dental Issues: Small breeds like the Shih Tzu are prone to dental problems, including tartar buildup and gum disease.
Brush their teeth daily using a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste.
Consider dental chews and regular professional cleanings.
Allergies and Skin Problems: Their sensitive skin may develop allergies or irritation, often due to poor grooming, diet, or environmental factors.
Regular grooming, hypoallergenic shampoos, and a vet-recommended diet can help.
Patellar Luxation: A condition where the kneecap dislocates, causing discomfort or lameness.
Regular vet check-ups can help detect this early, and surgery may be required in severe cases.
Shih Tzu Activity Needs
Shih Tzus are not highly active but do require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Here’s how to manage their activity needs:
Daily Walks: A 20-30 minute walk each day is sufficient. Keep walks moderate, as they are not built for intense exercise.
Be cautious of extreme weather conditions, especially heat, due to their brachycephalic nature.
Playtime: Shih Tzus enjoy interactive toys, fetch, or gentle indoor games.
Puzzle toys can also stimulate their minds and prevent boredom.
Indoor Activities: They adapt well to apartment living and can expend energy indoors with toys and brief play sessions.
Keep an eye on their weight, as they can become sedentary if not encouraged to move.
Grooming Requirements for Shih Tzus
Shih Tzus require significant grooming to keep their coat and skin healthy:
Brushing: Brush their coat daily to prevent matting and tangles, especially if kept long.
Use a high-quality pin brush and comb for best results.
Bathing: Bathe them every 3-4 weeks using dog-specific shampoo and conditioner to keep their coat clean and shiny.
Avoid over-bathing, as it can dry out their skin.
Trimming: If maintaining a shorter coat, regular visits to a groomer are necessary.
Many owners opt for a "puppy cut" to make maintenance easier.
Eye and Ear Care: Clean their eyes daily with a damp cloth to remove debris and prevent staining.
Check their ears weekly for wax buildup or signs of infection, and clean them with vet-approved products.
Nail Trimming: Trim their nails every few weeks to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.
If you can hear their nails clicking on the floor, it’s time for a trim.
Training and Socialization Tips for Shih Tzus
Early training and socialization are key to raising a well-behaved Shih Tzu:
House Training: Use positive reinforcement techniques and be consistent, as Shih Tzus can be slow to housetrain.
Crate training and a regular schedule can help.
Basic Commands: Teach commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come” using treats and praise.
Short, engaging sessions work best to keep their attention.
Socialization: Expose them to different people, pets, and environments to build their confidence and reduce anxiety.
Early socialization helps prevent fearfulness and aggression.
Preventive Measures for Shih Tzu Care
To ensure your Shih Tzu remains healthy and happy:
Routine Vet Visits: Schedule regular check-ups to monitor for potential health issues.
Vaccinations, deworming, and flea prevention should be kept up to date.
Weight Management: Prevent obesity by feeding them a balanced diet and monitoring treats.
Overweight Shih Tzus are more prone to health problems.
Environmental Safety: Protect them from extreme temperatures and rough handling due to their small size.
Always supervise interactions with young children.
Dental Care: Prioritize dental hygiene to avoid costly and painful oral issues.
Regular brushing and dental treats are essential.
Conclusion: Things to check before raising a Shih Tzu
Raising a Shih Tzu requires dedication, patience, and attention to their unique needs.
By understanding their physical characteristics, personality traits, health risks, and grooming requirements, you can ensure they live a long, happy, and comfortable life.
With proper care, a Shih Tzu will reward you with endless love and companionship.
They are not just pets but cherished family members who thrive on the love and care you provide.
This concludes our look at the things you absolutely must check before raising a Shih Tzu. I hope this article was of some help to those raising puppies, and I would appreciate it if you could share this article with anyone who needs it.