The first few weeks with a newborn Perro Shih Tzu are crucial for its development and health. A Perro Shih Tzu recien nacido requires a lot of care and attention from its owner.
Newborn Perro Shih Tzu puppies are completely dependent on their mother's milk, and they should nurse frequently, ideally every 2-3 hours. This helps to keep them warm and hydrated.
Their eyes and ears are still closed, but they start to open after about 10-14 days. It's essential to keep the environment clean and free of bacteria to prevent infections.
Their first vaccinations are usually given around 6-8 weeks of age, and it's vital to follow the vaccination schedule to ensure their protection.
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Historia y Origen
The Shih Tzu is a breed with a rich history that dates back to the 17th century, when it was created in the Forbidden City of China as a companion animal for the imperial family.
These dogs were considered sacred and were given the best care, living in luxury among the royalty. They were bred to be gentle and affectionate, with a noble appearance that commanded respect.
Their origins are closely tied to the Lhasa Apso, with which they were often confused until the 1930s, when they were recognized as a distinct breed.
Etimología
In China, the shih tzu is also known as the "Xi Shi" dog, named after Xi Shi, one of the most beautiful women in ancient Chinese history. This nickname highlights the breed's association with beauty and elegance.
The shih tzu was once referred to as the "Chrysanthemum Dog" in England during the 1930s, a name that reflects the breed's delicate and charming nature.
Historia Orígenes
The Shih Tzu, a breed with a rich history that spans centuries. They originated in the monasteries of China, where they were considered sacred animals and received royal treatment.
Their history is closely tied to that of the Pekingese, and for a long time, they were considered one single breed. However, by the 1930s, breeders began to distinguish them as separate entities.
The Shih Tzu's impressive coat and small stature made them a showstopper in dog shows, and their gentle nature made them a popular companion pet. Today, they're one of the most beloved breeds around.
Interestingly, the Shih Tzu was initially confused with the Lhasa Apso when they first arrived in England in the 1930s. It wasn't until that decade that breeders decided to recognize them as a distinct breed.
Their royal heritage is evident in their noble appearance and dignified behavior, which was highly prized by Chinese royalty. In fact, they were so highly valued that they were kept exclusively for companionship in the palaces of the Ming and Qing dynasties.
The Shih Tzu's ancient lineage dates back to the 17th century, although some historians believe it may have existed as early as the 8th century. Their connection to Tibetan Buddhism is undeniable, with many believing they were incarnations of Buddhist deities.
Their unique personality is a testament to their rich history, and their ability to form strong bonds with humans is a trait that's been cultivated over centuries of close companionship.
Intriguing read: Chinese Shar Pei History
Características y Temperamento
El perro shih tzu recién nacido es un precioso ser. Sus ojos grandes y expresivos ya muestran su carácter juguetón y cariñoso. El pelo largo y sedoso crece constantemente, por lo que necesitan cepillados diarios para evitar enredos.
La altura del perro shih tzu no supera los 26,7 centímetros, y su peso ideal está entre 4,5 y 7,3 kilogramos. Su cuerpo es más largo que alto, y está densamente cubierto de pelo. La raza shih tzu tiene la cabeza ancha y de forma redondeada, con pelo desgreñado que cae sobre los ojos y forma barba y bigotes en el hocico.
Los perros shih tzu son muy inteligentes, sociables y alegres. Les encanta estar con personas, son juguetones y activos cuando se los mantiene en forma. Su temperamento es leal, cariñoso y sociable, y suelen mantenerse alerta.
Additional reading: Razas De Perros Pequeños Y Peludos Shih Tzu
Características
The Shih Tzu is a small dog with a big personality. Its height is limited to 26.7 centimeters, regardless of whether it's a male or female.
The weight of a Shih Tzu typically ranges from 4.5 to 7.3 kilograms. This compact size is one of the breed's defining characteristics.
The Shih Tzu has a distinctive head shape, with a broad, rounded face covered in a tangled mess of fur that falls over its eyes and forms a beard and mustache around its mouth. The stop is well-defined, and the nose is usually black, but can be liver-colored or have liver-colored patches.
The Shih Tzu's eyes are large, round, and dark, giving them an endearing and expressive appearance. Its ears are also quite large and hang down, covered in thick, dense fur.
The Shih Tzu's fur is one of its most notable features, growing long and dense, with a thick undercoat. It's not curly, but rather silky and straight, with a slight wave allowed. The breed comes in a wide range of colors, from solid to patterned.
Here are the Shih Tzu's key physical characteristics:
- Height: up to 26.7 centimeters
- Weight: 4.5-7.3 kilograms
- Head shape: broad, rounded face with a tangled mess of fur
- Eyes: large, round, and dark
- Ears: large, hanging, and covered in thick fur
- Fur: long, dense, silky, and straight with a slight wave
Temperamento
The shih tzu is a loyal and affectionate breed that thrives on human interaction. They are naturally alert and make excellent watchdogs despite not being specifically bred for this purpose.
Their friendly nature allows them to get along well with other dogs and children, making them a great addition to families. However, they can be a bit distant at times and need their space.
Shih tzus are playful and love to engage in play with children, but they also value their independence and may show this by being distant on occasion.
Salud
The health of a Shih Tzu is a top priority. They're prone to eye and ear infections, so regular veterinary check-ups are a must.
Their large eyes are a beautiful feature, but they require extra care. We should pay more attention to them than to other areas of their body.
Shih Tzus are generally a healthy breed, but they can be susceptible to certain health issues, such as displasia de cadera, hipoplasia cortical de riñón, entropión, triquiasis, otitis externa, atrofia progresiva de retina, and hernias inguinales.
These conditions can have a significant impact on their quality of life, so it's essential to be aware of them and take preventative measures.
Here's a list of some of the health issues Shih Tzus are prone to:
- Displasia de cadera
- Hipoplasia cortical de riñón
- Entropión
- Triquiasis
- Otitis externa
- Atrofia progresiva de retina
- Hernias inguinales
Alimentación y Nutrición
The Shih Tzu is a breed that requires careful attention to its diet and nutrition. Their rapid metabolism means they burn energy quickly, so they need to eat frequently but in small amounts. A good quality dog food specifically formulated for small breeds is essential to ensure they get the right balance of nutrients.
Protein is a fundamental component of a Shih Tzu's diet, and it should come from high-quality sources like chicken, turkey, lamb, or fish. These proteins support muscle development and overall health.
A Shih Tzu's diet should also include essential fatty acids like Omega-3 and Omega-6, which promote a healthy coat and skin. These fatty acids can be found in fish and fish oil.
Carbohydrates are necessary for energy, but they should be easily digestible. Cooked rice and vegetables are good sources of carbohydrates for Shih Tzus.
To ensure a balanced diet, it's essential to introduce a variety of foods gradually to avoid sensitivities or allergies. Consistency in feeding times and amounts is also crucial to prevent overfeeding, which can lead to obesity.
A different take: What to Feed Shih Tzu
Here are some key nutrients that a Shih Tzu's diet should include:
- Proteins: Chicken, turkey, lamb, or fish
- Essential fatty acids: Omega-3 and Omega-6 found in fish and fish oil
- Carbohydrates: Cooked rice and vegetables
- Vitamins and minerals: Essential for bone development and immune function, can be found through a balanced diet or supplements
A natural and balanced diet is crucial for a Shih Tzu's overall health. A high-quality dog food like Dogfy Diet can be an excellent option, as it is formulated with fresh and natural ingredients, without artificial preservatives or additives.
For another approach, see: Dogo Argentino Natural Ears
Adiestramiento
The Shih Tzu is a joy to train, but only if you do it right. They learn quickly and easily, making it simple to teach them many things.
However, this is only true when using positive training methods, as they don't respond well to traditional dominance-based training. So, be sure to use rewards and praise to encourage good behavior.
Shih Tzus can get distracted easily, so it's best to train them in short, fun sessions. This will keep them engaged and prevent boredom.
If you socialize your Shih Tzu properly and provide enough exercise and attention, they usually don't have any behavior problems. But, if they're left alone for too long or don't get enough exercise, they can become destructive and loud.
Take a look at this: How to Train a German Shorthaired Pointer to Hunt
In fact, they can even develop separation anxiety if they're left alone for too long each day.
Here are some tips for training your Shih Tzu:
- Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewards and praise.
- Train in short, fun sessions to keep them engaged.
- Start training as early as 8 weeks old, using methods of reinforcement positive.
- Socialize your Shih Tzu early on to help them establish confidence with people and other dogs.
Remember, every dog is different, but with patience and consistency, you can teach your Shih Tzu to walk on a leash, come when called, and even learn some fun tricks.
Consejos y Curiosidades
Socializing your Shih Tzu puppy is crucial for its development, and it's best to start as early as possible, ideally between 3 and 12 weeks of age.
These little ones are most receptive to new experiences during this phase, making it the perfect time to introduce them to various people, places, and sounds.
To ensure a balanced behavior, expose your puppy to a diverse range of situations, such as meeting new people, visiting different locations, and encountering various sounds.
Here are some key socialization tips:
- Organize controlled meetings with other dogs and pets, making sure they're calm and friendly to promote positive interactions.
- Enroll your puppy in puppy classes, where they can interact with other dogs under the supervision of a professional.
- Use rewards and praise to reinforce positive behaviors during new experiences, helping your puppy associate socialization with happiness.
Did you know that Shih Tzus have a royal personality, inherited from their days as noble companions in China? Their regal demeanor is a fascinating aspect of their breed.
Their history is also quite interesting, as their export from China was once prohibited due to their high value.
Suggestion: Tibetan Mastiff China
Frequently Asked Questions
¿Cuánto tarda en abrir los ojos un Shih Tzu?
Un cachorro Shih Tzu abre los ojos entre 12 y 18 días después de nacer. Sin embargo, esto no significa que esté listo para valerse por sí mismo
¿Qué hace un cachorro de 20 días?
Un cachorro de 20 días comienza a desarrollar habilidades básicas como ver, oír y caminar. A esta edad, comienza a aprender a interactuar con su entorno y con los seres humanos
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