The Ultimate Guide to Purebred Shih Tzu Care and Health

As a proud owner of a purebred Shih Tzu, I can attest to the fact that these tiny dogs have big personalities. They require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their long, flowing coats.

To keep your Shih Tzu's coat in top condition, brush them at least twice a day, ideally with a pin brush or a slicker brush. This will help prevent knots and tangles from forming.

Their short noses can make breathing difficult, especially in hot or humid weather, so be sure to keep them cool and comfortable. Keep an eye on your Shih Tzu's panting and breathing, and take regular breaks to give them a chance to catch their breath.

Shih Tzus are prone to eye problems, such as progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts, so regular eye exams are a must.

The Shih Tzu has a rich and fascinating history that spans over 1,000 years. They originated in Tibet, not China as many people assume, where they were bred as luxury lapdogs for royalty.

Their earliest ancestors date back to 1000 B.C. in China, but it wasn't until they were exported to England and other European countries that they gained popularity in the West. American soldiers brought the pups back to the US in the 1940s and 1950s, and since then, they've become a highly coveted breed.

Shih Tzus have been bred with Pekingese or Pugs in the past, and every dog alive today is descended from one of the last 14 pups used to rebuild the breed after a famous breeding program fell apart in 1908.

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Documentation of the Shih Tzu dog breed goes back at least 1,000 years.

These ancient records show that short, square, "under the table" dogs existed in China as early as 1000 B.C., and it's likely that these dogs were the ancestors of the Shih Tzu.

The Shih Tzu breed has a rich history that spans over a thousand years, with a clear connection to its early ancestors in ancient China.

Every Shih Tzu alive today can be traced back to these early dogs, making them a truly unique and special breed.

The breed's ancestry goes back even further than 1,000 years, with a history that's steeped in tradition and culture.

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The Shih Tzu's name is a reflection of its rich history and cultural significance. The Mandarin phrase "Shih Tzu" translates to "little lion". According to legend, the Shih Tzu traveled with a small lion dog that could transform into a full-sized lion. This association with a powerful animal likely inspired the name.

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The Shih Tzu's temperament is truly one-of-a-kind. They're small in size but big on personality.

They're agile and adaptable, making them perfect for snuggling on the couch or going for a stroll in the park. They're not picky about their activities, as long as they're with you.

Shih Tzus are a fun-loving breed that get along great with older children who know how to play gently. Introduce them to other four-legged pets carefully, and they'll be fast friends.

They're not known for biting, but they may nip if pushed too far in rough play. Teach kids how to interact with dogs gently, and supervise them around your Shih Tzu puppy.

The Shih Tzu's ability to assess situations quickly makes them excellent watchdogs. They'll let you know when someone's approaching your home.

Their loyalty and calm nature make them great emotional support animals, despite their small size.

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Shih Tzus are known for their low-shedding coats, which require regular grooming to keep them looking their best. They need extra attention to keep their hair out of their eyes.

To keep your Shih Tzu happy and healthy, it's essential to watch her diet and ensure she gets plenty of exercise. A consistent diet and regular exercise routine will help her live longer and stay healthier.

Supervising your Shih Tzu is crucial, as they can get into trouble quickly. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary to keep her safe.

Regular brushing and grooming is needed to keep your Shih Tzu's coat beautiful. This should be done at least three times a week to prevent matting and tangling.

Shih Tzus often have problems with their teeth, so brushing them at least three times a week is essential. This will help prevent serious dental issues.

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To keep your Shih Tzu's ears clean, clean them weekly, even as a puppy. This will help prevent infections and keep them healthy.

Here are some essential care tasks to include in your Shih Tzu's daily routine:

As a Shih Tzu owner, it's essential to be aware of your pet's sensitivity to warm temperatures. Avoid prolonged exposure and be alert to the signs of heat stress.

Shih Tzus are highly intelligent dogs that can be taught to perform a variety of tricks. This will help keep them mentally stimulated and happy.

Shih Tzus are prone to a range of health issues, including liver shunts, bone and joint problems, eye problems, kidney disease, and brachycephalic syndrome.

Their lifespan is typically between 10 to 18 years, and regular check-ups with a veterinarian are crucial to catch potential health problems early on. Your Shih Tzu's breed predisposes them to certain genetic conditions, so it's essential to be aware of these risks and take preventive measures.

Some common health concerns in Shih Tzus include patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, and intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). These conditions can be diagnosed and treated, but prompt veterinary care is necessary to prevent undue pain and suffering.

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Shih Tzus are prone to a range of health issues, so it's essential to be aware of potential problems to help your pup live a healthy life.

Their life expectancy is 10 to 18 years, but they can be susceptible to health issues like liver shunts, which can lead to seizures or stunted growth.

A liver shunt, also known as portosystemic shunt (PSS), prevents toxins from being removed from their bloodstream, and it's crucial to test for this issue and conduct an ultrasound liver scan.

Shih Tzus also suffer from bone and joint problems, including patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, and intervertebral disc disease (IVDD).

IVDD is a common condition where the jelly-like cushion between vertebrae slips or ruptures, causing the disc to press on the spinal cord, and it's essential to recognize the symptoms, such as sudden inability or unwillingness to jump or go up stairs.

If you notice any of these symptoms, don't wait – call your vet or an emergency clinic immediately, as prompt treatment can make a significant difference.

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In addition to these health concerns, Shih Tzus can also be prone to eye problems, kidney disease, and brachycephalic syndrome, which affects their breathing.

Regular check-ups with your vet and a preventive health plan can help identify potential issues early on and prevent or alleviate symptoms.

Here are some common health issues in Shih Tzus and their symptoms:

Allergies can be a real challenge for Shih Tzus, causing itchy skin and painful ear infections. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year.

The feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most commonly affected by allergies in Shih Tzus. This is why you may notice your dog licking their paws, rubbing their face, or shaking their head.

Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs of allergies in Shih Tzus. If you notice any of these behaviors, it's essential to seek veterinary care.

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Shih Tzus are very often afflicted by allergies, which can cause itching and inflammation in the ears and elsewhere. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for these conditions.

Here are some common causes of ear infections in Shih Tzus:

The earlier you diagnose and treat ear infections, the less discomfort and pain your pet will suffer. By monitoring for ear infections and treating them early, you can also reduce the likelihood of eardrum damage that can lead to deafness.

Spaying or neutering your Shih Tzu is a crucial step in maintaining their health and wellness. This surgery can decrease the likelihood of certain types of cancers.

Spaying or neutering also eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. It's a good idea to have this surgery performed while your pet is under anesthesia, so we can also address other potential health issues.

Routine blood testing prior to surgery helps identify common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. This is a precaution we take to ensure your pet's safety during the procedure.

We'll discuss the specific problems we'll be looking for when the time arrives, so you're aware of what to expect.

If you're considering getting a purebred Shih Tzu, you may also be interested in learning about other small dog breeds that are similar in size and temperament.

Lhasa Apsos and Maltese are two other popular breeds that, like the Shih Tzu, are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities.

These breeds are all relatively low-maintenance, requiring daily walks but not a lot of exercise, making them perfect for city dwellers or those with busy schedules.

Poodles are another breed that can make great companions for Shih Tzu owners, as they are intelligent and easy to train, but require regular grooming to prevent matting.

American soldiers stationed in Europe during World War II and the Korean War brought Shih Tzus back to the United States in the late 1940s and 1950s.

These soldiers acquired the dogs while serving in countries where Shih Tzus had been previously introduced by the English, who had imported them from China.

The importation of Shih Tzus to the United States was a gradual process that began with American soldiers returning with the dogs from their time stationed abroad.

The popularity of Shih Tzus in the United States grew as more American servicemen and women brought back these small, affectionate dogs from their time overseas.

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If you're looking for breeds that share similarities with the Shih Tzu, you've got a few options to consider. One of the closest relatives of the Shih Tzu is the Pekingese, a breed known for its long, flowing coat and friendly demeanor.

The Bolognese is another breed that's often compared to the Shih Tzu, with its small size and gentle nature making it a great companion animal. You might also consider the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, which shares the Shih Tzu's affectionate and outgoing personality.

In terms of physical characteristics, the Pug is a breed that's often mentioned alongside the Shih Tzu due to its flat face and short snout. The Dachshund is another breed that's sometimes compared to the Shih Tzu, with its short legs and long body making it a unique and recognizable breed.

If you're looking for a breed that's similar to the Shih Tzu in terms of size and temperament, you might consider the Pomeranian. This breed is known for its small size and friendly personality, making it a great companion animal for many families.

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Shih Tzu have a distinctive face shape due to the way their hair grows. Their hair grows in every direction, earning them the nickname "chrysanthemum-faced dogs".

Their facial hair can get quite unruly if not regularly clipped, with owners often noticing new hair growth on their snout and in front of their eyes within a short period.

Shih Tzu are known as "chrysanthemum-faced dogs" because the hair on their faces grows in every direction. This unique feature makes grooming a top priority for Shih Tzu owners.

Their facial hair can quickly become unruly, even with regular grooming. Owners who keep their Shih Tzu clipped short know all too well that not much time goes by before their hair grows up from their snout and in front of their eyes.

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The Shih Tzu's coat is truly one of its most distinctive features, and it comes in many different colors.

Their coat is comprised of two distinct layers, which can make it a bit tricky to perfect a grooming routine.

Not all Shih Tzu coats are the same, so it's no wonder it can take some trial and error to get it just right.

Many Shih Tzu coats can change when the dog is around 10 to 12 months old, which means you may need to adjust your grooming routine accordingly.

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