All kinds of worms and bugs can invade your Shih Tzu's body, inside and out. This is a really friendly and playful dog breed as they tolerate children, other dogs, and strangers really well. Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and get along just fine. These are common signs of patellar luxation. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. The history of the Shih Tzu goes back at least a thousand years. These dogs nostrils are often too small, and sometimes the trachea, or windpipe, is narrow and undersized as well. Their coats can be kept long or groomed shorter depending on your lifestyle and preferences. This makes them suitable for living in most environments including smaller apartments. Shih Tzus are prone to multiple types of heart disease, which can occur both early and later in life. Once your Shih Tzu is settled in at home - its time to think about food. Their idea of a great time is probably going to be crawling into your lap while you binge whatevers on Netflix. The ideal height at withers is between 9 inches to 10.5 inches. Thoroughly clean the area where they urinated or soiled to discourage them from repeating the same mistakes. Their friendly nature and desire to be close to their humans can make them a great choice. Shih Tzus were bred as companion dogs, but theyre agile dogs that perform well in agility competitions. There are many things to consider from the makeup of your family to where you live that will inform what kind of dog might be the best fit. A number of different musculoskeletal problems have been reported in Shih Tzus. Their popularity rose quickly though, and they were recognized by the AKC in 1969. Call us right away if your pet has any problems with his eyes. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Shih Tzu needs help. Unfortunately, Shih Tzus can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! Theyre great watchdogs too as theyre likely to alert their owners of other peoples presence through barks and howls. Respiratory distress syndrome, also known as brachycephalic syndrome, affects dogs with a short nose, like your Shih Tzu. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. Many cancers are curable by surgical removal, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy. Well clean your dogs teeth regularly and let you know what you can do at home to keep those pearly whites clean. The lifespan of male and female Shih Tzus is about 10 to 16 years. You may notice that he has lameness in his hind legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. Dont let your pet ride in the car with his head out the window as this is also a frequent cause of eye injuries. This is all so understandable though, as Shih Tzus were bred to be lapdogs for the noble families. Early detection of heart disease often allows us to treat with medication that can prolong your pets life for many years. Many Shih Tzu shelters accept volunteer work and donations so they can take better care of the pets that are currently in rescue and others who might need rescuing in the future. Misaligned teeth can also occur and cause lots of problems, but can usually be corrected with braces or extractions. Dental disease is the most common chronic problem in pets, affecting 80% of all dogs by age two. Early detection leads to a happier pet and an easier, more affordable treatment plan. Cushing's Disease is a malfunction of the adrenal glands that causes them to produce too much steroid hormone. These pups may also have blue eyes. The happy and lively temperament of the Shih Tzu matches its sweet and innocent-looking face. They can be bathed as often as once a week. Because damaged kidneys leak protein, we may be able to diagnose this disease by annually testing your pets urine for excessive protein. Theyre most likely to relieve themselves after these activities. It takes a lot of work to groom a Shih Tzu. Treatment usually includes oral medications and requires close coordination with us to ensure correct dosing. Early detection is critical! Keep your dogs diet consistent and dont give her people food. Pet Hemp Company provides the highest quality ingredients, balance and consistent dosage, lab test results and great reviews for their products. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Though theyre definitely not required for pet owners, breed organizations can help you find like-minded people to help you train your dog, bring them up right, and just learn more about them. Shih Tzus are primarily companion dogs, and they take this job very seriouslythey love to be with their families whenever possible. In 2014, a Shih Tzu even won both the agility and the champion titles! Home / Dog Breeds / Shih Tzu Temperament & Personality. This is when well give her the necessary check-ups and test for diseases and conditions that are common in Shih Tzus. While these pups can compete in dog sports like agility, most of them prefer to spend their time with you indoors. Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. Either way, Shih Tzus became popular as Chinese palace eunuchs took care of them for the noble families. Irresponsible and careless breeding may sometimes result in noisy dogs, but sometimes lack of socialization skills is to blame. Some might think that theyre just cuddly lapdogs, but simply find them something that they can get excited about and youll see a whole different side to the Shih Tzu that highlights their playfulness even as adults. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help and how urgently. Its definitely a great first step and indication that youre reading this guide to better take care of your future pet. Kids should be taught not to play too rough with any dog breed though, and its always advisable to keep an eye on kids while theyre playing with dogs. This is called patellar luxation. When they do a good job, dont forget to show them affection and give them some treats immediately to help them realize the connection. Not only do eye injuries hurt, they can become infected and affect his vision. The Shih Tzus we know were almost driven into the brink of extinction. Shih Tzu parents find that our delicious Recipes keep their pups happy, healthy and full of only the good stuff. These affectionate, playful, and outgoing pups pack a lot of personality into their small frames. They were bred to be companion dogs, and thats what most Shih Tzus want to be. Theyre always ever so happy to interact with familiar people, but if someone new will love and take care of them, theyd welcome anything and anyone with open arms. Shih Tzus are grateful dogs. Most Shih Tzus are very sweet towards people and other pets, and they dont discriminate! If youre looking to adopt, foster, or rescue a Shih Tzu, know that theyre a breed that will always want cuddles, love, attention, and affection. For example, if your pet needs hip X-rays or a puppy tooth extracted, this would be a good timeits more convenient for you and easier on your friend too. Its definitely not impossible to train a Shih Tzu. Fans and air-conditioned rooms are their best friends. Shih Tzus are highly affectionate dogs known for their playfulness and their adaptability to apartment living. They dont have the highest energy levels and are pretty content with routine exercises like short walks and a game of catch, so theyre perfect for owners who dont have much time every day for running and other exercises. They also adapt very well to living in small spaces like apartments. We know that because you care so much about your dog, you want to take good care of her. Medication and sometimes surgery may be required. Glomerulonephropathy is an inherited disease that slowly damages your Shih Tzu's kidneys, causing them to fail, often at an early age. Tartar build-up, bad breath, red gums, or broken teeth, Itchy skin (scratching, chewing, or licking); hair loss, Lethargy, mental dullness, or excessive sleeping, Fearfulness, aggression, or other behavioral changes, Slow or stunted growth; sometimes seizes after eating, Drinks and urinates more, eats more; potbelly, poor coat, Scratching or shaking the head, tender ears, or ear discharge, Inability or straining to urinate; discolored urine, Cloudiness, redness, itching, or any other abnormality involving the eyes, Coughing, exercise intolerance, rapid breathing at rest, Leg stiffness; reluctance to rise, sit, use stairs, run, or jump; bunny hopping. These dogs arent overly-sensitive and they dont need to be around dogs and people all the time. Shih Tzus are naturally social dogs, so socialization training isnt too difficult. Shih Tzus can be found in a wide variety of colors. If you cant commit to keeping up with the brushing you risk letting their coat get matted which can be painful or if left too long can cause skin issues. All of these differences can lead to a narrow and obstructed airway such that many of these dogs can barely breathe! Obesity can be a significant health problem in Shih Tzus. In dogs, rather than sneezing, allergies make their skin itchy. Shih Tzus are smart dogs, but they can be very inconsistent and this means that theyre not very easy to train. Veterinary dental care and weight control also go a long way in preventing heart disease. Trained Shih Tzus even compete in dog agility, obedience, and rally sports! As mentioned, a child playing with a Shih Tzu poses more risk to the dog than to the child, but they still shouldnt be left alone and unattended to prevent any untoward incidents. Your Shih Tzu is more likely than other dogs to have a liver disorder called portosystemic shunt (PSS). By monitoring for ear infections and treating them early, we also reduce the likelihood of eardrum damage that can lead to deafness. Shih Tzus get along really well with children and other pets. You chose to snuggle up with a Shih Tzu because you can expect certain traits: It will take training, socialization, and attention to avoid problems related to these traits: Her large personality and adorable underbite make it easy to understand why the Shih Tzu is one of the most popular breeds in the United States. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Shih Tzu looking and feeling her best. For your canine friend, these parasites can cause pain, discomfort, and even death, so its important that we test for them on a regular basis. Shih Tzu means little lion but theres nothing wild about this dog breed. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Many noble families in China during the Ming and Manchu Dynasties used to own Shih Tzus, and these dogs even lived in Chinese royal courts under the care of palace eunuchs. Carry your Shih Tzus carefully so they dont jump off. The long, dense, and flowing coat of the Shih Tzu is the AKC standard, but many Shih Tzu owners choose to get year-round body clips for their pets, and this is absolutely fine. After about five years, another Shih Tzu was brought from China to Ireland. Teeth abnormalities are often genetically induced and are relatively common in dogs, especially in purebred dogs like your Shih Tzu. Shih Tzus are also called chrysanthemum dogs because of how the hair on their face grows. Shih Tzus are quite easy to take care of and novice owners wont find it hard to take care of one. The Shih Tzu who is rocking a longer hairstyle will need almost daily brushing. Build her routine care into your schedule to help your Shih Tzu live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. While these pups are charming and friendly they can also be a little bossy. There are several types of inherited bleeding disorders that occur in dogs. Shih Tzus are an ancient dog breed, bred originally for companionship. There was even a time when breeders were rewarded handsomely by the palace for producing the sweetest and happiest pups. It was ranked the 20thmost popular dog breed in 2019. At some point, they were even considered exclusive to the palaces, and those who owned Shih Tzus out of the palaces could face death as a consequence. Shih Tzus often have serious problems with their teeth, so youll need to brush them at least three times a week! A Chinese empress even made torturing Shih Tzus punishable by death. Well perform an annual glaucoma screening to diagnose and start treatment as early as possible. The Ollie blog is devoted to helping pet parents lead healthier lives with their pups. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which we will recommend based on her age, the diseases we see in our area, and other factors. A child engaged in rough play with a Shih Tzu is more likely to cause the dog harm than the other way around. Well periodically test his urine for telltale signs indicating the presence of kidney and bladder stones, which in addition are very painful! Pet owners hate to see their pets in pain or discomfort, and at times, administering any kind of Pet Hemp Company offers the most trusted and highest quality pet CBD products. Take the dog outside after eating, napping, or playing. But this veterinary medicine treats everyday pain in For aches and pains, we humans have a lot of options when it comes to relief, both natural and pharmaceutical. Like any puppy, you want to make sure you are giving them enough time and attention, avoiding behavioral issues, and providing adequate nutrition and veterinary care. Watch for exercise intolerance, loud breathing, coughing, bluish gums, or fainting. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Oligodontia is a condition in which only a few teeth are present. When you bring home a puppy you will want to start house training and obedience training quickly to help your puppy learn how things work and help them bond with you. The average life expectancy for these pups is 10 - 18 years, this means your dog may be an almost two-decade commitment. They tell us all the time that their pups love to see the big orange boxes get delivered and dig into the good stuff straight from our signature Puptainers! Most ear infections tend to recur until we work together to control the underlying cause. One of the best things you can do for your Shih Tzu is to have her spayed (neutered for males). Now, Shih Tzus are treasured family members of more than just a few noble families theyre some of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Scrapes or punctures to the cornea (the protective covering on the eyeball) are the most common injuries. Here are some house training tips to help you out: For socialization training, owners can start as early as eight weeks depending on the pup. Theyre small in size, theyre less likely to wander, theyre much less vocal, and they dont need that much exercise compared to many other dog breeds. Shih Tzus are generally healthy dogs without many predispositions to serious health conditions, but they are prone to some health issues nonetheless. Be sure to call us if you notice him scratching or shaking his head, a foul odor from the ears, or if his ears seem painful to the touch. Glaucoma, an eye condition that affects Shih Tzus and people too, is an extremely painful disease that rapidly leads to blindness if left untreated. KCS is a painful condition; please call us immediately if you notice any of these signs, and well conduct a tear test on your pet. Many times a pet seems normal until a serious injury occurs or surgery is performed, and then severe bleeding can result. By 1960, there were already three Shih Tzu clubs in the US. When indicated, well perform an annual heart health check, which may include X-rays, an ECG, or an echocardiogram, depending on your dogs risk factors. Not many things have as dramatic an impact on your dog's quality of life as the proper functioning of his eyes. Theyre trusting dogs and, unfortunately, this sometimes means that they are easy to steal. They are compact dogs that should neither be too tall or too short, nor too heavy or too light. They range in severity from very mild to very severe. Shih Tzus tolerate rough play quite well. Call us immediately! Apart from the occasional barks and howls at strangers and other unfamiliar sights and scents, Shih Tzus shouldnt be too noisy. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. (Yes, dogs can get braces!) Because your Shih Tzu has eyeballs that naturally protrude, he is more vulnerable to eye injuries. They do appreciate the presence of other pets and people though. An overweight dog is susceptible to many health conditions, so try to work out a good balance between their food and their weight gain to help keep them healthy. They wont wallow in pain from losing their former owners if somebody new can just pay attention and take care of them. We may also recommend a special diet as part of his therapy. Eventually, the three Shih Tzus were made to breed. Socialization training on adult Shih Tzus, however, must be done slow and steady. However, you cant say for sure if a pup would grow noisy or not as theyre individuals too. Exercise your dog regularly, but dont overdo it at first. For those looking for a smaller pup, the Shih Tzu may have popped up in your research. More than 70 years later, the Shih Tzu remains a well-loved dog breed in the US. Always keep them on a leash when youre running or walking outside. Word got out that our delicious recipes kept their bellies happy and weve seen many of these pups parents reaching out to us to get their pups set up with regular deliveries. An error occurred, please try again later. Joining breed organizations can help you take better care of your pets. If your buddy has blood in his urine, cant urinate, or is straining to urinate, it is a medical emergency. The other pets dont even need to be Shih Tzus or other dog breeds they can be cats and any other pet. Well take. If he develops symptoms such as stunted growth or seizures, well test his blood and possibly conduct an ultrasound scan of his liver. Allergies, swimming, overgrowth of hair in the ear canals, and accumulation of earwax can all predispose your dog to ear infections, which are painful and annoying. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions against common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. Please check your inbox and click the link to confirm your subscription. Like any other purebred dog, the Shih Tzu is prone to certain health issues. Though its tempting to give your pal food when she looks at you with those soulful eyes, you can love her to death with leftover people food and doggie treats. If the dog accidentally pees or poops inside the house, take them outside so they can learn to associate these things with going outside. Theyre basically everything that you want in an apartment dog and so much more. We will describe the most common issues seen in Shih Tzus to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Similarlooking breeds have even been found in paintings dating 2,000 years back. The Little Lion Dog originated in 17th century China and is believed to be a cross between the Tibetan Spaniel and the Lhasa Apso. To check for this problem, well conduct a liver function test in addition to a standard pre-anesthetic panel every time he undergoes anesthesia. Their fluffy hair can get dirty really easily, and Shih Tzus need daily cleaning, especially around their faces. Symptoms of KCS include a dull, dry appearance or thick discharge from the eyes, squinting, and pawing at the eyes. Before purchasing a pup from a breeder inquire about the health of the bloodline and any testing that the breeder does before breeding to ensure the best possible chance of healthy pups. The Shih Tzu is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of 13-15 years. Learn more about these adorable and expressive pups to decide if this might be the right dog for your family. This information helps you and us together plan for your pets unique medical needs. Many diseases and health conditions are genetic, meaning they are related to your pets breed. Shih Tzus are surprisingly funny in the sweetest ways. The feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most commonly affected. They sat on their laps and they were a specialized and highly-pampered breed. The sweetness doesnt end with their looks though. Hip dysplasia is common in Shih Tzus. Many Shih Tzus also have the tendency to jump from high places, which could be dangerous as theyre small, solid, and front-heavy dogs. As they age, they have the tendency to gain weight, making daily exercises and playtimes more important. If we dont prevent or treat dental disease, your buddy may lose her teeth and be in danger of damage to her kidneys, liver, heart, and joints. Theyre curiously friendly dogs and may run up to strangers (who may not be fond of dogs altogether) or kids (who may easily get scared). Their brachycephalic heads make them susceptible to overheating, so they should never be left outside for too long. There is a general consensus among canine genetic researchers and veterinary practitioners that the conditions weve described herein have a significant rate of incidence and/or impact in this breed. Tips, Advice & Stories for Dog Owners - Dog Eared Newsletter. Ideally, though, you can find pups, adult, and elderly Shih Tzus to foster and eventually adopt. The AKC considers all Shih Tzu colors equal, and there are so many different colors for the Shih Tzu: black, white, blue, silver, brindle, gold, liver, red, and many other color combinations. Call us at. At Ollie, many of our customers are Shih Tzus. An overbite or underbite is called a malocclusion or a bad bite. There are a few different types of stones that can form in the kidney or in the bladder, and Shih Tzus are more likely to develop them than other breeds. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Von Willebrands disease is a blood clotting disorder frequently found in Shih Tzus. Can they be taken care of by first-time dog owners? Some of the blood supply that should go to the liver goes around it instead, depriving the liver of the blood flow it needs to grow and function properly. Symptoms include drinking and urinating more than normal, increased appetite, and reduced activity level followed later by a potbelly, thin skin, and hair loss. The American Kennel Club ranks the Shih Tzu 20th out of 197 on their most popular breeds list, and this is for good reason! 2022 OLLIE PETS INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. By knowing about health concerns specific to Shih Tzu, we at Indian Trail Animal Hospital can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. Indoor games are also a great way to keep them occupied. Resource Articles 2022 GeniusVets. Well perform periodic diagnostic tests and look for lumps and bumps when we examine your pet. Theyre peaceful companions so its not difficult to introduce Shih Tzus to homes with already existing pets. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease. Well watch for the lenses of his eyes to become more opaquemeaning they look cloudy instead of clearwhen we examine him. In fact, your Shih Tzu's life span may even be cut short by one to three years! Well also recommend preventive medication as necessary to keep her healthy. Shih Tzus are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections the same ones that all dogs can get such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Here are some FAQs when it comes to dog breed characteristics to help you see if Shih Tzus fit your lifestyle: Shih Tzus are amazing pets for first-time dog owners. That doesnt mean that these pups arent hard work to raise and train. A minute or two of getting used to, however, and Shih Tzus can be really friendly towards strangers too. Unfortunately, your Shih Tzu is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. They dont have high energy levels, but their excitement can be very contagious. Shih Tzus are known to be affectionate with kids and make great therapy dogs due to their friendly nature and charming personalities. Sometimes your Shih Tzu's kneecap (patella) may slip out of place. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. With diligent observation at home and knowledge about the diseases that may affect your friend's bones, joints, or muscles, you will be able to take great care of him throughout his life. This is one reason that theyre perfect for apartment living. They tend to be mouthy especially as puppies, and they never lose their playfulness and mouthiness even as they age. This results in sore, itchy eyes and infections. Shih Tzus are considered toy dogs, but theyre quite solid for their size. Your Shih Tzu will likely live longer than many other breeds and therefore is more prone to get cancer in his golden years. These include gold & white, red & white, gold with a black mask, black & white, liver, solid black, and brindle & white. KCS reduces the amount of fluid produced by the tear glands such that they are no longer able to keep the eyes moist. The earlier we diagnose and treat these ailments, the less discomfort and pain your pet will suffer. Veterinary websites by GeniusVets, Javascript must be enabled for the correct page display, Intelligent, friendly, and easily won over, An indoor dog that doesnt do well in the heat, Can be aggressive, fearful, or snappy if not socialized properly, Fragile and easily injured due to small size, Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a common condition in Shih Tzus. Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Marissa Taffer is a consultant, writer and strategist based in Philadelphia. If youre considering adding a new member to your family, you may be spending a lot of time researching the perfect breed for your lifestyle. Of course, we cant cover every possibility here, so always check with us if you notice any unusual signs or symptoms. Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. Shih Tzus were introduced to the US mainly by returning soldiers who were stationed abroad during World War II. In advanced cases, the eye may look enlarged or swollen like its bulging. Yikes! Owners can of course keep their dogs hair long and flowing, but they also have to make sure to keep their pets in cool rooms so they can breathe easily and not overheat. As an aspiring Shih Tzu owner, you might also want to check out other articles: Tramadol sounds a bit intimidating, doesnt it? Even if you do brush daily, you will need to get your pup to a groomer (or learn to DIY) on a regular schedule and the cost of all this grooming can add up quickly. Symptoms such as stunted growth or seizures, well shih tzu characteristics good and bad a liver function in... 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