Shih Tzu dog breed guide overview
Shih Tzu dog breed guide: The Shih Tzu is a small buddy dog loved for its loving nature and beautiful look. Coming from very old Tibet and China, this dog has a history linked with palaces and temples. Today the Shih Tzu is still a dear family pet around the world appreciated for its loyalty and ability to adjust.
History of the Breed
Early dogs of the Shih Tzu family were loved by Tibetan monks and Chinese emperors over 1000 years ago. Today’s Shih Tzu came from mixes of Tibetan Lhasa Apso and Pekingese breeds during the Tang dynasty period. Dog clubs in Europe first registered Shih Tzu in the early 1930s. The American Kennel Club accepted the breed in 1969 allowing its quick growth in fame across North America.
Physical Characteristics
Grown-up Shih Tzu are eight to eleven inches tall and weigh about nine to sixteen pounds. Their two layers of fur have a soft bottom layer and longer outer fur in many colors such as gold and white or brindle and black or solid colors. Their face has large round eyes set below a rounded head and a short snout. Their strong body makes them look solid even though they are small size.
Temperament and Lifestyle
Shih Tzu are friendly dogs that love being with people. They do well in apartments and bigger houses too. Training needs patience because they can show a bit of stubbornness. Regular using treats and praise help them feel confident and listen better. Early exposure to children strangers and other pets helps a well balanced adult personality.
Exercise Needs and Environment
They need moderate exercise. Two or three times of light playtime or short walks each day usually meet their needs without making breathing hard in warm weather. Indoor puzzle feeders and hidden toy games provide mental exercise when outside play is not possible. Owners should watch for getting too hot and give cool places to rest in summer.
Care and Maintenance
Brushing every day is needed to stop mats and knots. Many owners choose a shorter puppy cut for easier care while maintaining the soft look they are known for. Brushing ears regularly and wiping around the eyes helps stop infections and stains. Brushing teeth a few times a week helps prevent mouth disease which is common with teeth crowding in short nosed dogs.
Everyday Signs of Health or Illness
- Coat looking dull or shedding too much
- Watery or thick eye gunk
- Sneezing coughing or loud breathing
- Sudden loss of appetite or noticeable weight change
- Unusual tiredness or not wanting to play
What to Do
- Take your dog to a vet if it has trouble breathing or keeps coughing
- Keep up regular brushing to avoid skin irritation
- Feed a healthy balanced diet and watch for weight gain
- Give daily light exercise in the cooler parts of the day
- Keep a simple health diary and share notes at vet visits
Common Health Considerations
The Shih Tzu’s short snout can lead to breathing problems. Eye problems such as dry eye and sores on the surface of the eye may appear due to their prominent eyeballs. Gum disease is another concern because of teeth crowding. Responsible breeders follow health tests to reduce inherited conditions but owners must stay alert for early warning signs and get help quickly.
Training and Socialization
Training with treats and praise works best for Shih Tzu. Short lessons with treats and praise help them pay attention and feel safe. Showing commands such as sit stay and come in small steps stops frustration. Puppy play classes and meeting new places help them feel less shy and more sure of themselves.
Choosing a Responsible Breeder and Lifespan
Shih Tzu live on average twelve to sixteen years. When you look for a puppy choose a breeder who gives health checks for parents and lets you see where the dogs grow up. Ask about eye health tests breathing checks and teeth checks. A trusted breeder will offer help and information through your dog’s life.
Conclusion
The Shih Tzu combines royal history with friendly buddy traits making it a perfect pet for many homes. Understanding its brushing needs exercise levels and health issues helps ensure a happy long life together. With careful care and routine vet visits your Shih Tzu will be a loving friend for years to come.
Sources : American Kennel Club, World Small Animal Veterinary Association, American Animal Hospital Association
Discover another article in this category for more Shih Tzu care tips: Boxer Dog Breed Guide