Shih Tzu: All You Need to Know About This Lively Dog Breed

Shih Tzu: Fashionistas with Fluffy Elegance and Tail-Wagging Charm!

Majestic Heritage From Tibet And Favourites Of The Chinese Royals

Shih_Tzu
Coat:
Long and Silky
Shedding:
Light
Coat colours:
Black & White
Gold & White
Weight:
4-7kgs (male)
3-6kgs (female)
Height:
20-28cm (male)
20-28cm (female)
Size:
Small
Life expectancy:
10-16 years
Coat: Long and Silky
Shedding: Light
Size: Small
Life expectancy: 10-16 years
Coat colours:
Black & White
Gold & White
Weight:
4-7kgs (male)
3-6kgs (female)
Height:
20-28cm (male)
20-28cm (female)

Adaptability

Temperatures should be cool to moderate for Shih Tzus

Hot weather tolerance:
up to 25℃
Cold weather tolerance:
up to 10℃
Adaptability

Adaptability

Temperatures should be cool to moderate for Shih Tzus

Adaptability
Hot weather tolerance:
up to 25℃
Cold weather tolerance:
up to 10℃

Traits

These attributes have been rated by dog trainers, expert vets and pet behaviourists. Remember that all dogs are individuals with their own personalities.

4/5
5rate
Friendliness
4/5
5rate
Good with
other dogs
4/5
5rate
Good with kids
3/5
4rate
Barking
tendencies
4/5
4rate
Playfulness
3/5
4rate
Energy level
4/5
4rate
Playfulness
3/5
4rate
Barking
tendencies
pet-parent
Good for first-time pet parents
9/10
pet-parent
Good for
first-time pet parents
9/10

Diet

Consider following tips when choosing food for your Shih Tzus.

Beagle-diet-image

1. Choose a protein-rich diet

Opt for protein-rich dog food with quality animal protein sources like chicken or fish as the main ingredients to support Shih Tzu's muscle maintenance.

2. Avoid fillers & additives

Shih tzus have a sensitive stomach and are prone to allergies, hence avoid food that contains fillers like corn, wheat, or soy for optimal health.

3. Consider their age

Choose dog food specifically formulated for small breeds for all life stages, including small kibble sizes and wet dog food.

4. Controlled portion sizes

Shih Tzus are prone to obesity so feed them smaller, more frequent meals or use a slow-feeding bowl for weight management

1. Choose a protein-rich diet

Opt for protein-rich dog food with quality animal protein sources like chicken or fish as the main ingredients to support Shih Tzu's muscle maintenance.

2. Avoid fillers & additives

Shih tzus have a sensitive stomach and are prone to allergies, hence avoid food that contains fillers like corn, wheat, or soy for optimal health.

3. Consider their age

Choose dog food specifically formulated for small breeds for all life stages, including small kibble sizes and wet dog food.

4. Controlled portion sizes

Shih Tzus are prone to obesity so feed them smaller, more frequent meals or use a slow-feeding bowl for weight management

Home-cooked food
must contain:

home-cooked-image

Preparing home-cooked meals may be time-consuming and nutritionally incomplete, consider adding dog food toppers or supplements to make up for the lack of nutrients.

Preparing home-cooked meals may be time consuming and nutritionally incomplete, consider adding food toppers or supplements to make up for the lack of nutrients.

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Training

Shih Tzus shine during training sessions, as their intelligence and eagerness to please make them quick learners. Let's explore a few ways to keep your Shih Tzu fit and active.

Shihtzu-training-img

1. Lots of physical exercise

Shih Tzus thrive with regular physical exercise. Take them for brisk walks, engage in play sessions, or play interactive games to keep them active and happy.

2. Engage in interactive play

Shih Tzus enjoy interactive play that satisfies their curiosity. Keep them mentally stimulated with interactive toys, engaging puzzles, and fun training exercises.

1. Lots of physical exercise

Shih Tzus thrive with regular physical exercise. Take them for brisk walks, engage in play sessions, or play interactive games to keep them active and happy.

2. Engage in interactive play

Shih Tzus enjoy interactive play that satisfies their curiosity. Keep them mentally stimulated with interactive toys, engaging puzzles, and fun training exercises.

Train and teach new tricks

Shih Tzus excel in training with treats, enhancing their obedience for basic commands like 'sit,' 'stay,' 'come,' 'heel,' and 'down’.

Need help with training?

help with training
Training-tips
Training-tips
Shihtzu Grooming

Grooming

Regular grooming is essential for Shih Tzus for their long and luxurious coats. Let's delve into the key aspects of grooming a Shih Tzu.

Shihtzu Grooming

Grooming

Regular grooming is essential for Shih Tzus for their long and luxurious coats. Let's delve into the key aspects of grooming a Shih Tzu.

1. Brush and bath

Brush your Shih Tzu’s coat weekly to maintain its shine and health and reduce shedding. Occasional baths using mild shampoo will keep them clean and fresh.

2. Keep their ears clean

Check and clean ears regularly with a mild ear-cleaning solution and a cotton ball to promote ear health.

3. Nail and paw care

Trim their nails regularly to prevent discomfort and ensure their paw pads are clean and free from any issues.

4. Dental care

Maintain oral hygiene by brushing their teeth at least twice a week with dog-specific toothpaste and a toothbrush to prevent plaque and tartar buildup.

1. Brush and bath

Brush your Shih Tzu’s coat weekly to maintain its shine and health and reduce shedding. Occasional baths using mild shampoo will keep them clean and fresh.

2. Keep their ears clean

Check and clean ears regularly with a mild ear-cleaning solution and a cotton ball to promote ear health.

3. Nail and paw care

Trim their nails regularly to prevent discomfort and ensure their paw pads are clean and free from any issues.

4.Dental care

Maintain oral hygiene by brushing their teeth at least twice a week with dog-specific toothpaste and a toothbrush to prevent plaque and tartar buildup.

Common health concerns

Shih Tzus, like any other breed, may be prone to certain health concerns. Let's see what they are:

Obesity

Obesity

Shih Tzus are prone to weight gain, so it's important to monitor their diet and exercise to prevent obesity.

Dental

Dental issues

Shih Tzus are susceptible to dental problems like tartar buildup and periodontal disease, emphasizing the need for regular dental care.

Dysplasia

Luxating Patella

This condition involves the dislocation of the kneecap and can be seen in Shih Tzus, causing lameness and discomfort.

Allergies

Allergies

Shih Tzus may experience allergies, including food allergies or environmental sensitivities.

Common health concerns

Shih Tzus, like any other breed, may be prone to certain health concerns. Let's see what they are:

Obesity

Obesity

Shih Tzus are prone to weight gain, so it's important to monitor their diet and exercise to prevent obesity.

Dental

Dental issues

Shih Tzus are susceptible to dental problems like tartar buildup and periodontal disease, emphasizing the need for regular dental care.

Dysplasia

Luxating Patella

This condition involves the dislocation of the kneecap and can be seen in Shih Tzus, causing lameness and discomfort.

Allergies

Allergies

Shih Tzus may experience allergies, including food allergies or environmental sensitivities.

shihtzu-health-image
Beagle-health-image

Does your Shih Tzus have a health issue? Provide them a veterinary prescription diet along with prescribed medicines.

Prescription diet

Does your Shih Tzus have a health issue? Provide them a veterinary prescription diet along with prescribed medicines.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Shih Tzu suitable as a house dog?

Yes, the Shih Tzu is generally well-suited as a house dog. They adapt well to apartment living or homes with limited space. Their small size, low exercise needs, and affectionate nature make them excellent family companions.

How much fur does a Shih Tzu shed?

Shih Tzus have a low shedding tendency, which makes them a suitable choice for individuals who prefer dogs with minimal hair shedding.

How is a Shih Tzu’s temperament?

The temperament of a Shih Tzu is generally friendly, affectionate, and outgoing. They are known for their charming and gentle nature, making them great companions and family pets.

Are Shih Tzus easy to take care of?

Yes, Shih Tzus are generally considered relatively low-maintenance pets. Their small size and low exercise requirements make them suitable for various living situations.

How often should a Shih Tzu be fed?

Adult Shih Tzus should eat twice daily, while puppies may require three to four meals daily. Provide appropriate portion sizes according to their age, weight, and activity level.