Shih Tzu : Dog Breed Characteristics & Care
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The Shih Tzu is a little dog that is strong and has a thick, long double coat. This breed is favored by fans of toy dogs because of its alert, self-assured, lively, and brave temperament. Shih Tzus are an ancient breed that have a long history of serving as nobles' lap dogs.
Shih Tzus may be amazing companions if taught and cared for properly. This breed is perfect for flats and other tiny living places due to its little stature. The Shih Tzu is a brachycephalic breed due of its head shape and short, "smooshed" face, so be prepared for some snoring and snorting. Overall, the majority of Shih Tzu owners will agree that this breed is a really lovely canine.
Breed Overview
GROUP: Toy
HEIGHT: 8 to 11 inches
WEIGHT: 9 to 16 pounds
COAT: Long double coat
COAT COLOR: Found in nearly any color, most commonly in black, white, blue, gold, liver, or combinations
LIFE SPAN: 10 to 16 years
TEMPERAMENT: Friendly, intelligent, playful, alert, loyal, lively
HYPOALLERGENIC: Yes
ORIGIN: Tibet
Characteristics of the Shih Tzu
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Shih Tzus are well-known for their endearing and lovable personalities. They adore attention and will demand a lot of it, and they adore nothing more than spending time with (and sitting on) their humans. They are friendly toward strangers and adapt well to both big and small families and homes.
Affection Level : High
Friendliness : High
Kid-Friendly : High
Pet-Friendly : High
Exercise Needs : Low
Playfulness : High
Energy Level : Medium
Trainability v Medium
Intelligence : High
Tendency to Bark : Medium
Amount of Shedding : Low
History of the Shih Tzu
Since the breed resembles a lion, the name Shih Tzu is derived from the Chinese word for "lion." It is possible to find evidence of the Shih Tzu's origins in older breeds, particularly in Tibet. According to DNA testing, the Shih Tzu and Lhasa apso are more closely related to wolves than most other dog breeds.
There are conflicting timelines over the last 1,100 years regarding the precise beginnings of the Shih Tzu as a pet in Chinese royal households. As a result of its use as a royal house pet by Ming Dynasty royalty from the 14th to the 17th century, the breed came to be renowned as a noble dog in China. In the late 1800s, they were also a favorite of the Empress T'zu Hsi.
The Shih Tzu has never been bred for any other known purposes; it has only ever been kept as a house pet and lap dog. This sets the breed apart from the Lhasa apso, which was used to guard temples. Perhaps for this reason, among the toy dog breeds, the Shih Tzu continues to be one of the most adored and well-known.
The dog has never been traded outside of the nobility by Chinese kings in the past. The first Shih Tzus were imported into Europe not until 1930. They then arrived in the country following World War II, and the American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized them in 1969.
Shih Tzu Care
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Shih Tzu dogs are quite simple to teach and take care of because of their small stature and high level of intelligence. A happy and healthy dog can be yours for years to come if you remember just a few crucial care requirements.
Exercise
The Shih Tzu requires regular exercise due of its average energy level. Your Shih Tzu might benefit from regular walks and entertaining pursuits like games to keep both their minds and bodies active. When given adequate time for vigorous play, they adjust to apartment life very well. However, due to their flat features and predisposition for heat exhaustion, Shih Tzus will not fare well in very hot situations or weather.
Grooming
The Shih Tzu is widely regarded as a hypoallergenic dog breed because of its continuously growing coat and very little shedding. However, keep in mind that the allergens still exist in dander and saliva, so there will still be some in the area around the dog. The loose hairs are more likely to be trapped in the coat than in the air. Before getting a Shih Tzu, it's a good idea if you're sensitive to see if this breed makes you allergic to anything.
The hair of dogs is frequently kept short by owners, giving it a curled or fluffy appearance. Some people like to maintain their coats long and plush. The Shih Tzu absolutely need routine maintenance due to their coat type. They should be clipped every few weeks, and they should be combed once or twice a week (up to once a day if the coat is kept long). Some Shih Tzus may wear a topknot or a bow because, if their facial hair isn't kept in check, it can bother their eyes.
About once a month, you should trim your dog's nails, and you should brush your dog's teeth frequently to promote good oral hygiene.
Training
Maintaining your Shih Tzu's happiness and socializing requires proper training and socialization. Simply because the Shih Tzu is a small dog, you shouldn't neglect these routines. Although the breed is rather intelligent, it also has a little bit of a stubborn side.
You must be persistent in teaching your dog from an early age because Shih Tzus can be challenging to housebreak. They can also be taught to use a litter box indoors, but you will need to keep your dog's area clean because they have a tendency to consume their own (and other dogs') waste.
This breed gets along well with other friendly dogs and cats in a multi-pet home, especially if they are raised together. As long as the youngster is old enough to handle a dog gently and properly, Shih Tzus get along fine with kids. The Shih Tzu is a little dog that can be easily hurt by hard play.
Common Health Problems
Breeders that practice responsible breeding work to uphold the highest breed standards as set forth by organizations like the AKC. These breeding guidelines reduce the likelihood of inheriting health issues in dogs. Shih Tzus, however, are susceptible to some inherited health issues. You should be aware of the following circumstances:
_Brachycephalic Syndrome: This condition, which is common in breeds with flat faces and results from faulty airway structure, makes breathing difficult. Snoring, noisy or laborious breathing, an inability to exercise, and nasal discharge are typical symptoms.
_Intervertebral Disc Disease: often known as "slipped disc," is a condition of the spine that develops with aging. Pain, an unusual walk or limping, shivering, and trouble standing are also symptoms.
_Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca : is a fancy name for dry eyes, which in Shih Tzus is frequently brought on by an autoimmune condition. Thick eye discharge, eye redness, crusting in the eyelashes, and excessive blinking are all signs.
_Distichiasis: Another eye condition, this one characterized by excessive crying, is prevalent in breeds with flat faces, such as the Shih Tzu. Eye redness, pawing at the eyes, squinting, and difficulty seeing are symptoms.
Shih Tzu :Diet and Nutrition
Shih Tzus are little dogs that only require up to 1 cup of dry dog food each day. The precise amount is determined on the dog's age, degree of activity, size, and health conditions. It's crucial to keep an eye on your dog's weight and take action if you notice it's getting too heavy. Consult your veterinarian about the best nutritional approach to receive advice.
Where to Adopt or Buy a Shih Tzu
When planning to adopt or purchase a dog, there are many economic considerations to keep in mind, including the price of the puppy, supplies, and veterinary expenses. Shih Tzu dogs typically cost between $850 and $1600. Finding a trustworthy breeder or adoption agency is crucial, and you can do it by contacting the following Shih Tzu associations:
"Shih Tzu Rescue"
"American Shih Tzu Club"
If there are any Shih Tzu rescues in your region, you can also contact a nearby animal shelter to inquire.
How do you groom a Shih Tzu?
Shih Tzus require frequent brushing due to their long, fluffy coats, as well as bathing and grooming every few weeks. Despite the fact that you can always hire someone to do it for you, it's simple once you get the feel of it.
How many puppies can a Shih Tzu have?
Unless it's the mother's first litter, Shih Tzu litters typically contain three to four puppies. If so, it's either one or two.
How do you train a Shih Tzu?
Training Shih Tzus is notoriously difficult. Even though you can complete the task on your own, you may wish to seek assistance through online training, suggested reading, or even by engaging a trainer in person.
