10 Interesting Facts About Shih Tzus

No one can resist adorable Shih Tzu puppies! That is just a fact! Whether you just enjoy watching videos of them or actually own one, Shih Tzu’s cuteness and charm always win everyone’s hearts. They are great companions and lap dogs. If you are thinking of owning one, here are some useful facts that can help you understand their breed as a whole.

Physical Characteristics

Shih Tzus are energetic snugly little dogs with a round head, black nose and plentiful beard and mustache. The hair on top of their nose grows upward and gives them a chrysanthemum face, which is a distinctive look among Shih Tzu puppies. They have a wide and round set of eyes that can be either dark or light colored.

Shih Tzus are categorized as a brachycephalic breed, which means that their muzzles are short, flat and smooth. Their large pendant ears are covered in hair and often blend into their body. Their tail is set high and curls over their back. A thick and long double layered coat that comes in all colors covers their entire body. Their coat can grow past their feet. They don’t shed a lot, making them suitable for people with light fur allergies.

Their average weight and height are usually around 9-16 pounds and 8-11 inches, respectively. Their length is slightly longer than their height but they are overall physically proportional.

History

Several documents from the 16th-century show pictures of dogs who look similar to Shih Tzus. They are said to have originated from the Pekingese, Lhasa Apso, and Tibetan mountain dog. Chinese royals used to value them a lot and refused to give them away for years.

First breeding started in England in 1930 when several Shih Tzu puppies were imported from China. Soldiers during World War II were charmed by their breed and decided to bring some of them to the US. Britain recognized them in 1946 and American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized their breed in 1969.

Health

The average life span of a Shih Tzu is usually around 11-16 years. Like several purebred dogs, they can be prone to a lot of hereditary ailments. Eye problems like retinal atrophy and tear production are the most common issues among these dogs. This can either result to blindness and proptosis where their eyeballs bulge out of its sockets.

Shih Tzu puppies can be born with renal dysplasia and it can affect them more than other breeds. This usually results in kidney failure and death during their early life. A genetic test can be done during their early age to manage this condition.

Diet

Like other young dogs, Shih Tzu puppies need plenty of food to eat during their first few months. A high-quality dog food is needed to assure that they receive all the nutrients they need. Lean meats, vegetables, fish, and starches are some of the ingredients that are vital in their diet. This should be carefully checked for in their food labels.

Age and weight should also be checked to determine how much serving the puppy needs to eat. During the first six months, it is recommended to feed them four times a day then two times a day after that.

Grooming

Grooming Shih Tzus often requires a lot of time and effort. Daily brushing is necessary to ensure that their hair doesn’t end up tangled. Brushing up to the skin is needed to properly remove all mats and tangles that can irritate their skin and develop into a skin problem.

Shih Tzu puppies’ nails grow quickly and have to be clipped regularly. Hearing clicks when they walk is a good indication that it is time to clip their nails. Hairs grow from the puppy’s ears as soon as they are born so it is a must to remove them to prevent infections. Ear cleaning should also be done on top of hair removal.

Exercise

Exercise is necessary but no more than a stroll in the nearby park or around the neighborhood is required.  Physical activities can also be done indoors by playing games like fetching. Shih Tzus are more of a walking than a running dog. Despite this, they can still be good companions during bike rides as long as there is a basket for them to settle in.

Personality

Shih Tzu puppies are generally good-natured and affectionate. They are gentle with people so they must be guided by trust, tolerance, and kindness. They can be a playful and lively companion too. They love to delight everyone with their charms and cheerful attitude.

Training

Housebreaking Shih Tzu puppies can be a pretty tricky job. Lots of patience and consistency are necessary. Starting the training immediately is recommended so the puppies can catch on fast. Since they have a small bladder, you need to take them outside more often. Creating a consistent schedule is necessary. Shih Tzus are naturally affectionate dogs so giving them rewards and treats can make training sessions more fun and enjoyable.

Care

It is important to remember that Shih Tzu puppies are fragile. especially the area around their neck. Collapsed trachea is a condition that affects several small breed dogs like Shih Tzu. Not putting too much strain on their neck can prevent this condition. Tight leashes and collars can highly contribute to this so it’s better to use harnesses instead. The harness allows the pressure to be distributed over the puppy’s chest and back so when it’s taken out for a walk, injuries can be prevented.

Check-Ups

It is important to go the veterinarian for regular checkups. Veterinary care should start the moment the puppy is born. A checkup is a routine visit to the vet where they check over the puppy. You can ask questions regarding the best diet for him, exercise and other specific matter.

Shih Tzu puppies should visit the vet once a month until they’re four months of age. It is necessary to keep them updated on their physical development and vaccinations. They are also checked for illnesses like distemper and parvovirus through blood tests.

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