Breeding Shih Tzu - Everything You Need to Know

Breeding Shih Tzus requires a significant amount of time and effort.

To begin with, Shih Tzus are prone to certain health issues, including eye problems and respiratory difficulties. These issues can be costly and time-consuming to manage.

Shih Tzus typically have a lifespan of 10-16 years, which is relatively long compared to some other breeds. This means that breeders need to be prepared to care for their dogs for a significant portion of their lives.

A Shih Tzu's temperament is generally friendly and outgoing, making them a great companion animal.

Choosing a Breeder is crucial when it comes to breeding Shih Tzus.

You should check for health screenings, as Shih Tzus are susceptible to health issues like allergies, hip dysplasia, and eye difficulties. Ask the breeder about the health examinations they give to their breeding dogs.

A reputable breeder prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs, so choose one who places a high value on temperament in their breeding program. Shih Tzus are renowned for their affectionate and amiable temperaments.

For your interest: Different Breeds of Shih Tzu Dogs

To find a high-quality breeder, look for someone who loves the breed, such as a breeder who participates in dog shows or competitions. This indicates their understanding of the breed and dedication to raising healthy puppies.

Here are some key things to look for in a breeder:

Finding a reputable breeder is crucial when choosing a Shih Tzu. A good breeder prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.

Check if the breeder conducts health examinations on their breeding dogs to identify any health issues. Shih Tzus are prone to allergies, hip dysplasia, and eye difficulties, so a reputable breeder will have a plan in place to prevent or mitigate these conditions.

Choose a breeder who values temperament in their breeding program. A breeder who prioritizes temperament will produce puppies with mellow and affectionate personalities, just like the Shih Tzu breed is known for.

A breeder who is enthusiastic about the Shih Tzu breed and participates in activities like dog shows or competitions is a good sign. This shows they understand the breed and are dedicated to raising healthy, well-bred puppies.

Readers also liked: Shih Tzu Breed Dog

Inquire about the breeder's breeding philosophy and methods. A reputable breeder will have a well-defined plan for their breeding program, which includes their objectives for the breed and the process they use to choose breeding partners.

Ask the breeder for recommendations from other dog owners who have purchased puppies from them. This can give you a good idea of the breeder's reputation and the quality of their puppies.

Inspect the breeder's facilities to ensure they are clean, well-maintained, and provide ample space for the dogs to run around and play.

Meet the breeding dogs and observe their behavior. They should be polite and well-behaved, showing no signs of fear or hostility.

A reputable breeder should offer a strong health guarantee for their puppies. This guarantee should cover genetic health problems as well as other health issues.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Shih Tzu Pom Mix Puppies

A Shih Tzu's adaptability is one of its greatest strengths. They can thrive in a small city apartment or a large suburban or country home. They don't require a lot of space to run around, making them a great choice for city dwellers.

Their short walks each day are all they need to stay happy and healthy. Don't worry about them getting bored or restless, they'll be content to sit in your lap, wander around the house, or play with their toys.

Be aware that Shih Tzus are sensitive to heat and should stay indoors on hot days. They can suffer from heat exhaustion if they're not kept cool, so make sure they have access to air-conditioning or fans.

Their small size can be a disadvantage, especially around young children. Adults should always supervise interactions between kids and Shih Tzus to prevent injuries.

Shih Tzus are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They love making new friends and will often approach strangers with a wagging tail.

Suggestion: Shih Tzu in Heat

PetMatch is a powerful tool that can help you find the perfect breeding partner for your Shih Tzu. PetMeetly is a leading platform that connects dog owners and breeders to discover ideal breeding partners.

Their search algorithm takes into account your location and other characteristics such as your pet's age, gender, and health to connect you with the best potential breeding mates. This means you can find a suitable partner for your Shih Tzu based on your specific needs.

To use PetMeetly, you can create a profile for your pet, including images and details about their health and disposition. You can also browse other Shih Tzus' profiles and contact their owners to explore potential breeding options.

By using PetMeetly, you can be sure to find a breeding partner that will help enhance your pet's genetic health and create healthy, robust pups.

Shih Tzus are known as "lion dogs" in Chinese, which is where their name originates. Their unique hair is more similar to human hair than the fur found in most canine breeds.

These dogs have a distinctive appearance, with fur on their muzzle growing straight out, earning them the nickname "Chrysanthemum-faced Dogs." Their flat face and shortened muzzle make them brachycephalic.

Related reading: Shih Tzu No Hair

Shih Tzus have a relatively long lifespan, typically living between 10 and 16 years. Their weight can range from 9 to 16 pounds, making them a small but adorable breed.

Here are some key facts about Shih Tzus at a glance:

Shih Tzus are friendly, affectionate dogs that are great with families and other pets. They require regular grooming to prevent matting, and their high maintenance coats need regular brushing, bathing, and occasional trimming.

The Shih Tzu breed has a rich history and unique characteristics that set it apart from other dog breeds. Their name, "Shih-tzu kou", or "lion dog", is a direct translation from Chinese.

Their coats are unlike those of most other canine breeds, with hair that's more similar to human hair than fur. This means they require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.

The fur on the top and sides of a Shih Tzu's muzzle grows straight out, earning them the nickname "Chrysanthemum-faced Dogs." This distinctive feature is a result of their unique coat growth pattern.

For your interest: Spell Shih Tzu Dog

Shih Tzus are brachycephalic, meaning they have a shortened muzzle or "flat-face", which can sometimes lead to breathing difficulties.

They share more DNA with wolves than most other breeds, but not as much as the Nordic spitz group, which includes breeds like Huskies, Samoyeds, and Malamutes.

In fact, all modern Shih Tzus are descendants of just 13 dogs and 1 Pekingese, making them a relatively rare breed.

The Shih Tzu breed almost went extinct in the early 1900s, but thanks to conservation efforts, they're now thriving.

Here's a brief rundown of some key Shih Tzu stats:

Unfortunately, Shih Tzus are not considered a hypoallergenic breed, so they may not be the best choice for those with allergies.

The Shih Tzu is a beloved breed with some fascinating facts. They originate from Tibet, China.

These dogs are small, typically weighing between 9 to 16 pounds (4 to 7 kilograms). Their size makes them a great fit for apartment living.

Shih Tzus are part of the Toy Group and have a lifespan of 10 to 16 years. This means they'll be a loyal companion for a long time.

Their coat is one of their most distinctive features - a long, flowing double coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting. This means they need to be brushed regularly to prevent tangles.

Here's a breakdown of their exercise needs:

Shih Tzus are intelligent dogs, but they can be stubborn at times. Consistent, positive reinforcement-based training works best with this breed.

Their grooming needs are high due to their long coats. This means regular brushing, bathing, and occasional trimming are necessary to keep them looking their best.

Unfortunately, Shih Tzus are prone to certain health issues, including respiratory problems, dental issues, eye conditions, joint problems, and other genetic health concerns. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor their health.

The Shih Tzu breed has a rich and fascinating history that spans over 2000 years. They originated in Tibetan monasteries and were often given as gifts to Chinese royalty.

In fact, these dogs were so cherished by many Chinese dynasties that they lived in the royal court and were kept hidden from the public eye. They were considered "warmers" for their humans, often kept in sleeves or placed on the feet of their royal companions to help generate heat.

The Shih Tzu was held in high regard due to its association with Buddha, who was believed to have ridden down to earth on the back of a lion. This led to the breed being highly valued by Chinese royalty.

Empress Tzu Hsi, who came to power in the late 1800s, was gifted a breeding pair of Shih Tzus by the Dalai Lama and started a strict breeding program to create her ideal "Imperial Dog." The breeding program was discontinued after her death.

A pair of Shih Tzus eventually found their way to England in 1930, with the Shih Tzu Club of England forming in 1934. The Kennel Club (UK) officially recognized the Shih Tzu as a separate breed from the Lhasa Apso in 1940.

On a similar theme: What Does a Shih Poo Dog Look like

Shih Tzu health is a top priority for any responsible breeder. Regular veterinary checkups are crucial to catch and manage health concerns early.

Shih Tzus are prone to brachycephalic syndrome, a condition that can lead to breathing difficulties due to their shortened airways. This can manifest as snoring, wheezing, or even more severe respiratory distress.

Their prominent eyes are susceptible to ocular issues, including corneal ulcers, progressive retinal atrophy, and dry eye syndrome. Regular eye examinations by a veterinarian are essential to catch these conditions early.

Dental problems are another concern for the breed, as their small mouths can put them at higher risk of tooth overcrowding and be challenging to clean. Regular dental care, including brushing and professional cleanings, can help prevent issues like dental decay and gum disease.

Shih Tzus are also prone to skin allergies, which can cause itching, redness, and hair loss. Identifying and avoiding potential allergens can help manage these issues.

Maintaining a healthy weight and providing regular, low-impact exercise can help reduce the risk of orthopedic problems like hip dysplasia and luxating patella.

Shih Tzu grooming requires some extra attention, but they shed less often than you'd think. Their beautiful coats are a result of a long, dense outer coat and a soft, woolly undercoat.

Shih Tzus typically have a full, cascading tail and a fringe that grows over their eyes, which can be styled into a top knot. Their coats can be straight or wavy, adding to their charm.

Regular grooming is a must for Shih Tzus, but some owners choose to have their hair cut short by a professional groomer. Shih Tzus don't shed seasonally, making them a good option for some allergy sufferers.

Here are some key grooming tips for Shih Tzus:

Shih Tzus are prone to slight underbite, which can lead to overcrowding and issues like abscesses and gum disease. Regular tooth brushing can help keep these problems at bay.

Grooming is an essential part of Shih Tzu care, and it's not as daunting as it sounds. Their luxurious coats require extra attention, but the good news is that they shed less often than you'd think.

Shih Tzus have a long, dense outer coat that can be straight or wavy, and a soft, woolly undercoat. This unique combination requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.

To keep your Shih Tzu's coat in top condition, you'll need to commit to regular grooming sessions. Some owners choose to visit professional groomers and have their Shih Tzu's hair cut short, while others prefer to do it themselves.

Shih Tzus don't shed seasonally, making them a good option for some allergy sufferers. However, it's essential to remember that no dog can be totally hypoallergenic.

Regular grooming also helps prevent dental problems in Shih Tzus. Their slight underbite can lead to overcrowded teeth, making them more prone to issues like abscesses and gum disease. Regular tooth brushing can help keep these problems at bay.

To make grooming easier, consider the following tips:

Training is key when it comes to bonding with your Shih Tzu. Start training from 8 weeks old, as this breed can have a stubborn streak.

For your interest: How to Train Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu puppies are naturally curious and love to learn, but their small size and cuteness can trick owners into delaying training. Keep training sessions short – around five to ten minutes – to stop your pup from getting bored.

A combination of short walks and games will help expel excess energy and avoid unwanted behaviors. Shih Tzus love treats, but they love their humans even more, so proper socialization is crucial.

Here are some tips for training your Shih Tzu:

Shih Tzus can be prone to separation anxiety, so it's essential to start with short periods of time apart. An adult Shih Tzu needs between 30 minutes and one hour of exercise per day, ideally split into two walks with playtime in between.