What Should I Know About My Shih Tzu?

Is

shih tzu

a good family dog?

Shih tzu are renowned for their perky, happy temperaments. They are lively and friendly. Shih tzu tend to get along well with people of all ages and with other dogs as well as other pets of different species Rarely you will find a snippy shih tzu, but most are very sweet.

Is Shih Tzu high maintenance?

The Shih Tzu is an energetic,

vibrant little dog

with a surprisingly low-maintenance and easygoing temperament. The only thing they love more than following their humans around their house is being petted and pampered! They’ll happily sit in your lap for hours, and can even be prone to laziness.

How do I take care of a Shih Tzu?

  • Supervise your pet as you would a toddler
  • Regular brushing and grooming is needed to keep her coat beautiful.
  • Shih Tzus often have serious problems with their teeth, so you’ll need to brush them at least three times a week!
  • Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy.

Do Shih Tzus bark a lot?

Barking. As we have said, the Shih Tzu does not have many behavioral issues like other breeds, but their barking can seem out-of-control. The Shih Tzu is a

breed prone

to barking They tend to bark at people and dogs passing the window, or off in the distance when walking.

Do Shih Tzus like to cuddle?

prized for their companionship, and these adorable, plush canines are deeply loyal, affectionate, and always down to cuddle , which is why they’re widely loved across class lines today. The Shih Tzu is family-friendly and adaptable, and their gorgeous locks are enchanting.

Can Shih Tzu be left alone?

As you know, Shih Tzu should never be left outside – the dog is an indoor breed. But whether you allow them to wander around the house or be left in a

single room

is up to you. Just be sure each room the dog has access to it adequately prepared. Make sure the room you leave the dog is never used for punishment.

Why do Shih Tzu bite so much?

If your Shih Tzu is biting, this often is clear due to the sheer aggression that is being displayed Household members, and particularly young children or elderly adults, may be down-right scared. With a biting problem, there is a nervous vibe, and you may feel that your Shih Tzu is truly out-of-control.

Which is better male or female Shih Tzu?

But as it turns out, they share an average height, weight, and lifespan. Additionally, male and female Shih Tzus are affectionate and loyal. However, males have proved to be more affectionate, attentive, and accepting than females On the other hand, females are confident, dominant, assertive, and stubborn.

What are the disadvantages of Shih Tzu?

  • Those gorgeous coats can be high maintenance. The Shih Tzu who is rocking a longer hairstyle will need almost daily brushing
  • They need a

    high-quality food
  • Can be stubborn
  • Prone to health issues.

How many times a day do you feed a Shih Tzu?

It’s recommended that you feed your Shih Tzu at least three times a day when they are of adult age If they are still a puppy, they may require 4-6 meals a day. This is due to the fact that this breed is susceptible to hypoglycemia. With such a fast metabolism, they lack the ability to hold much of an energy reserve.

Are Shih Tzus hard to house train?

Shih Tzus are friendly, social lapdogs who are less prone to excessive barking than other small dog breeds. They are also, however, notoriously stubborn and difficult to housebreak The key to proper Shih Tzu training is consistency, gentleness and a basic understanding of dog behavior.

How many times should a Shih Tzu puppy take a bath?

Typically, a shih tzu should be bathed every three weeks to keep its skin and hair healthy and to avoid bad smells from developing.

What is the best food for a Shih Tzu?

  • Nutro Small Breed Adult Farm-Raised Chicken Dog Food
  • Blue Buffalo Freedom Small Breed Dog Food For Puppies
  • Wellness Small Breed Complete Health Senior Dog Food
  • Nom Nom Turkey Fare
  • Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Dog Food
  • Pedigree Small Dog Complete Nutrition Dog Food.

What food does Shih Tzu like?

A high-protein Shih Tzu dry food can help keep your dog satiated throughout the day. The best food for Shih Tzu dogs often includes ingredients like beef, lamb, chicken and pork liver to help build lean muscle and support your pet’s optimal weight. Shih Tzus can also benefit from omega-3 and -6 fatty acids.

Why you shouldn’t get a Shih Tzu?

Health problems. Many Shih Tzus live a good long life. But unfortunately they can suffer from serious kidney and liver diseases, knee problems, eye diseases, itchy skin allergies, and more Read more about Shih Tzu Health.

What do I need to know before I get a Shih Tzu?

They are sensitive to heat and require only moderate exercise Shih Tzus are primarily companion dogs, and they take this job very seriously—they love to be with their families whenever possible. The Shih Tzu is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of 13-15 years.

Are Shih Tzus loyal to one person?

They can be a one-person dog , or the loveable family companion. They’re naturally confident, dignified, and affectionate. For a toy-breed, the Shih Tzu expresses one of the most well-rounded personalities.

How far can a Shih Tzu walk?

Most Tzu can manage at least a 3 mile walk if conditioned properly.

Are Shih Tzus smelly dogs?

A. No, it is not normal for your Shih Tzu to have terrible body odor These dogs are usually clean little pets, sweet, cuddly and minimal shedders. The first thing you should do is to have your vet examine him thoroughly to see if an underlying health issue is responsible for this smelly situation.

Do Shih Tzus shed a lot of hair?

Do Shih Tzus shed? Yes, but minimally You’re not likely to find a lot of shed hair all over your carpets and furniture, the Shih Tzu is a light shedder and their double coat further reduces the amount of loose hair that comes off of them. Because of this, the Shih Tzu is considered hypoallergenic.

Are Shih Tzus jealous dogs?

A Shih Tzu is generally affectionate, happy and loving, but they tend to be jealous too Whether with kids or other pets, a Shih Tzu can turn into a green-eyed monster, unless you do something to ensure jealousy doesn’t rear its ugly head in your household.

What are the pros and cons of a Shih Tzu?

Other pros of Shih Tzu include the quietness – this breed does not bark much and makes a great apartment dog. Shih Tzu owners may need to spend more time on housebreaking a Shih Tzu – the breed requires extra effort to house train, which can be a disadvantage. Shih Tzu cons include the maximum grooming needs.

What is the best small dog to have?

  • #1: Maltese. With its soft and silky white coat, the Maltese is most likely one of the first breeds that comes to mind when thinking of small dogs
  • #2: Boston Terrier
  • #3: Dachshund
  • #4: Shih Tzu
  • #5: Pug
  • #6: Pomeranian
  • #7: Chihuahua
  • #8: Yorkshire Terrier.

What should I name my Shih Tzu?

  • Bella.
  • Teddy.
  • Charlie.
  • Max.
  • Lucy.
  • Gizmo.
  • Zoe.
  • Lily.

What human food can you feed a Shih Tzu?

  • Peanut butter. This is a great source of added protein and fiber for your pup and a tablespoon on their dry food is a surefire way to get them to eat it! .
  • Yogurt
  • Lean proteins (like chicken, turkey and beef)
  • Salmon
  • Pumpkin and sweet potatoes
  • Rice and pasta
  • Apples
  • Peas and green beans.

How do you train a Shih Tzu to pee and poop?

Plan on taking your Shih Tzu out many times a day, including whenever they wake up, after meals, and before bed. Use a harness and leash to bring your pup outside and remain in the potty area with them for up to 15 minutes. Give enthusiastic praise and reward when they have gone pee or poo.

Do Shih Tzus sleep a lot?

It is not uncommon for sleep patterns to become a bit disjointed. Senior dogs may wake up during the night, either for bathroom needs or to re-position a sore body. With an older, senior Shih Tzu you can expect the dog to sleep anywhere from 14 to 19 hours per day.

Do Shih Tzus growl a lot?

Shih Tzu are typically happy dogs and don’t tend to growl any more than other pups However, growling can mean many things, and it isn’t always a sign of aggression.

Will my Shih Tzu protect me?

Given its small stature, it is highly unlikely that a Shih Tzu would be a suitable guard dog However, as a watchdog, they can be very effective. If you want a dog to alert you when someone is looking to get into your home uninvited, a Shih Tzu could be a good deterrent toward an intruder.

What do Shih Tzus love the most?

Bred solely to be companions, Shih Tzus are affectionate, happy, outgoing house dogs who love nothing more than to follow their people from room to room.

What makes a Shih Tzu happy?

By offering you their well-loved toys , it means they trust you to be responsible for their favorite possessions. If your Shih Tzu gives you a toy, it means your Shih Tzu is happy and loves you. After all, if they share that toy, it means they want you to like and enjoy it just as much as they do.

How do you know if your Shih Tzu loves you?

  • She looks into your eyes and holds the gaze
  • She wags her tail so much her bottom moves along with it
  • She is calm when you leave but thrilled when you return
  • She has her favorite toy ready and waiting for you
  • She wants to get as close to you as possible.

Where should a Shih Tzu sleep?

Your Shih Tzu likely loves to sleep on your bed or at least in your room Once you establish where he’ll sleep it’s best to let him sleep there consistently. If he does sleep on your bed, provide steps or a ramp so he can safely get on and off the bed.

How long do Shih Tzu need to walk?

Shih Tzu’s need around 70 minutes of exercise a day and because they’re small dogs, it’s best to split up their daily walks into 2 or 3 outings. Don’t forget that playing with your pup is also exercise, so make sure you schedule in some rest time so they don’t become too tired or overstimulated.

What kind of music do Shih Tzus like?

Studies show dogs prefer classical music.

Why does my Shih Tzu stare at me?

In many cases, your dog is staring because he wants to get your attention for something If you are eating, moving around or if your dog is hungry or wants to be played with then they may stare at you so that you pay them some attention. They may simply be interested in what you are doing.

What happens if a Shih Tzu bites you?

If your Shih Tzu continues to bite as an adult and hasn’t grown out of the nipping, you need to train them to stop Also, if your Shih Tzu suddenly starts biting for no obvious reason please go to the vet immediately – it could be the sign of a new illness or injury.

Is Shih Tzu smart?

Shih Tzus are typically considered to be smart dogs and have even been to assist farmers and tradesmen in the past. However, Shih Tzus can also be stubborn at times. Shih Tzu’s intelligence varies from individual to individual, but most people agree they are pretty good problem solvers.

How much is a Shih Tzu puppy worth?

Shih Tzu puppies sit in a price range of between $500 and $1,600 , with the average price of one of these beautiful dogs being around $850. The most expensive purebred Shih Tzus can cost about $6,000.

Do female Shih Tzu have periods?

With the Shih Tzu, it will be normal to have a heat cycle every 4 to 8 months This averages out to two or sometimes 3 times per year. It is important to note that even senior dogs still enter heat; the canine equivalent of menopause typically does not occur.

What age do Shih Tzus start barking?

The very first noises that a Shih Tzu puppy makes are not barks. There will be some whining, soft grunting noises, and little ‘chirps’. As pups mature, they will normally start to bark at the 7 and 8-week marks This being said, some are late bloomers and take some time to find their bark.

Which color Shih Tzu is best?

The most common combination is a black and gold body with white markings mainly around the face It could also be a mainly gold Shih Tzu with white markings over the chest, and a black face mask would be considered the epitome of tri colored Shih Tzus.

Citations


https://www.thesprucepets.com/shih-tzu-dog-breed-profile-1117999

Shih Tzu




https://www.pethealthnetwork.com/dog-health/dog-breeds/shih-tzu


http://www.allshihtzu.com/


https://www.dailypaws.com/dogs-puppies/dog-breeds/shih-tzu