Shih Tzu dogs
Thinking about
Shih Tzu dogs as a companion?
Height: 27cm (10.5 inches) at the
shoulder Group Lifespan: 12-16 years Who is the Shih Tzu?An affectionate, friendly and lively little dog, the sweet temperament and elegant coat of Shih Tzu dogs have earned them a place as one of the world's most popular puppy breeds. Regular brushing can reduce the Shih Tzu's shedding to almost nothing, so the breed may be suitable for people who are allergic to dogs. However, if you are allergic to dogs, you should always take an allergy test as allergic reactions can differ from person to person. Breed historyShih Tzu dogs are an ancient breed, closely related to other ancient Tibetan small dog breeds such as the Lhasa Apso and the Pekingese. It became a cherished pet of the Chinese nobility and would be carried about by its owners to show off to friends. The name Shih Tzu means 'lion dog', possibly for its vaguely lion-like look. Personality
Good with children?Yes. Shih Tzu dogs brought up with children will adore them but young children should be taught that the dog, though small, is not a toy.Exercise needsThe Shih Tzu loves a daily walk but is perfectly happy living in small spaces. HealthAs an ancient breed, the Shih Tzu is generally a healthy dog and many individuals reach 16 or 17 years of age. As they are brachycephalic (they have a short, snub-nosed skull), they can be sensitive to high temperatures and find it difficult to breathe in these conditions. They should be kept cool inside during hot weather. Shih Tzu dogs can also be sensitive to red dye #40. Symptoms include scratching obsessively, even if the dog has no fleas. Avoid pet foods that contain this colouring agent. Possible health problemsLiver shunt (a bypass of the liver by the body's circulatory system) Renal dysplasia (a renal disease characterised by abnormal cellular differentiation of renal tissue - typical symptoms include weight loss, loss of appetite, depression, and increased water consumption and urination) Hip and elbow dysplasia (a disease that can cause lameness and arthritis in the hips or elbows) Eye problems Good breeders should x-ray or test their dogs for
as many of these
conditions as possible before
breeding, or should avoid breeding from dogs that display the
conditions. GroomingShih Tzus can be kept long haired (this is a requirement for show dogs) or can be clipped short, particularly in summer. If kept long-haired, frequent brushing is required to care for the long, silky coat. Regular brushing (preferably daily) of the long coat can reduce the Shih Tzu's shedding to almost nothing, so the breed may be suitable for people who are allergic to dogs. However, if you are allergic to dogs, you should always take an allergy test as allergic reactions can differ from person to person. As Shih Tzu dogs have a lot of hair around the eyes, the eyes should also be gently wiped clean regularly. The long hair between the pads of the paws can become matted, causing the dog irritation and discomfort. Regular clipping of the hair between the paws will keep this in check. When grooming, remember to check the paws, ears and coat for grass seeds. Also check for any minor injuries and check the teeth to see if they need cleaning. More information for new puppy owners:Want to know more about buying, raising and caring for a Shih Tzu puppy? Check out these PuppyPrimer.com pages: Ideal ownerThe ideal Shih Tzu owner will recognise that their dog is a house dog, not an outdoors dog, and will allow it to spend most of its time inside. However, the breed will still enjoy a daily walk and loves to play. Shih Tzu dogs were bred for no other purpose than to provide company - your dog will bark to alert you to strangers but will quickly make friends with whoever comes in the door. Return to the top of Shih Tzu dogs Go back to Puppy Breeds |
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