Shih Tzu Breeding Problems: A Guide to Preventing and Managing Health Issues

Shih Tzus are a beloved breed, but unfortunately, they can be prone to certain health issues.

Brachycephalic syndrome, a condition that affects their breathing, is a common problem in Shih Tzus. This is due to their short, flat face and long soft palate.

Their small size and compact body can also lead to joint issues, such as hip dysplasia and patellar luxation.

It's essential to work with a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.

Shih Tzus are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Many of these issues are genetic, meaning they're related to the breed, and responsible breeders will screen their dogs for common conditions such as hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and eye anomalies.

Some common health issues in Shih Tzus include brachycephalic airway syndrome, which can lead to breathing difficulties, and luxating patellas, which can cause knee pain. These conditions are often covered by pet insurance, but it's essential to check your policy to see what's included.

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Shih Tzus are also susceptible to infections like parvo, rabies, and distemper, which can be prevented with vaccination. Regular veterinary check-ups and monitoring for signs of illness can help detect health issues early on, making treatment easier and more effective.

Here are some common health issues in Shih Tzus, along with their symptoms and recommended treatments:

Infections are a common health issue in Shih Tzu dogs.

Bacterial and viral infections are a threat to Shih Tzu, including parvo, rabies, and distemper.

These infections are preventable through vaccination, which is recommended based on the diseases prevalent in your area and other factors.

It's essential to keep your Shih Tzu up-to-date on their vaccinations to protect them from these infections.

Preventing infections can save your Shih Tzu a lot of suffering and even save their life.

Kidney Disease is a serious issue that affects Shih Tzus, particularly due to Glomerulonephropathy, an inherited disease that damages kidneys at an early age.

Early detection is key to a happier pet and a more affordable treatment plan. We recommend yearly urine analysis to check for excessive protein in the urine.

Glomerulonephropathy causes kidneys to leak protein, which can be detected through urine testing.

Allergies can be a real pain for Shih Tzu owners, causing their furry friends to suffer from itchy skin and ear infections.

Shih Tzu are prone to skin allergies, also known as atopy, which makes their skin itchy, particularly on their feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears.

Symptoms of allergies in Shih Tzu typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year.

Common signs of allergies in Shih Tzu include licking their paws, rubbing their face, and frequent ear infections.

Ear infections can be painful and annoying, and if left untreated, can lead to eardrum damage and even deafness.

If you notice your Shih Tzu scratching or shaking their head, or if their ears have a foul odor or seem painful to the touch, it's essential to seek veterinary care right away.

Worth a look: Shih Tzu Scratching All the Time

Shih Tzus are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. These include hip dysplasia, patellar luxation (slipped kneecap), and eye anomalies.

Responsible breeders screen their dogs for these conditions, but it's essential to know what pet insurance covers in case your Shih Tzu does develop a health issue. Brachycephalic airway syndrome and luxating patellas are considered genetic and unlikely to be covered by most pet insurance.

Pet insurance varies depending on the coverage you've chosen, but most plans cover accidents and injuries, chronic illnesses, common illnesses, serious illnesses, hereditary conditions, testing and diagnostics, procedures, holistic and alternative procedures, wellness procedures, and behavioral therapy. However, it's crucial to note that pet insurance typically does not cover pre-existing conditions, experimental treatments, grooming, food, dietary and nutritional supplements, or non-veterinary expenses.

Here are some common health issues that pet insurance may cover:

It's always a good idea to check your policy coverage and do your homework to see what exactly your pet insurance will cover before you choose a plan.

Eye anomalies are a common concern for Shih Tzus due to their large, protruding eyes. These adorable features make them more susceptible to eye problems.

A fresh viewpoint: Shih Tzu Eye Conditions

Their prominent eyes can lead to a condition called epiphora, where tears overflow onto the face, causing red-colored tear-stains. This is often due to a blocked tear duct, which can be caused by skin folding common in short-faced dogs.

Shih Tzus are also prone to ocular proptosis, where weakened muscles around the eye cause the eyeball to push out of the socket. This can be a serious condition that requires veterinary attention.

Inflammation or discoloration in one or both eyes can be a sign of pigmentary keratitis, a condition caused by pigment migration onto the cornea. This can lead to blindness if left untreated.

Progressive retinal atrophy is another condition that can cause gradual vision loss and eventually total blindness. It's caused by a degeneration of the photoreceptor cells in the retina.

Cataracts can also develop in older Shih Tzus, leading to a white film over the eye and potentially causing blindness. This condition is often genetic.

Dry eyes, or keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), is a common condition in Shih Tzus caused by inflammation of the cornea and inadequate tear production. It's believed to be a genetic disorder.

Here are some common eye anomalies found in Shih Tzus:

If you notice any signs of eye irritation, such as discharge, redness, rubbing at the eye, or vision loss, it's essential to have your Shih Tzu checked by a veterinarian as soon as possible.

To keep your Shih Tzu happy and healthy, it's essential to establish a daily routine that includes regular care and maintenance. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler, keeping doors closed and picking up after yourself to prevent trouble.

Brushing and grooming are crucial for a Shih Tzu's beautiful coat, and regular brushing is needed to prevent matting and tangling. This should be done daily for a half-hour at a time, or as often as every day to remove knots and prevent matting.

Clean your Shih Tzu's ears weekly, even as a puppy, to prevent infections and keep them healthy. A daily walk and regular inside play are also necessary to keep your Shih Tzu physically active and mentally stimulated.

Here are some key care and maintenance tips to keep in mind:

Remember, consistency is key when it comes to training your Shih Tzu, especially since they can be hard-headed due to their independent and proud nature. With patience, a firm hand, and consistency, you can help your Shih Tzu become a well-behaved and loving companion.

To keep your Shih Tzu happy and healthy, it's essential to establish a consistent routine. This includes supervising your pet as you would a toddler, keeping doors closed and picking up after yourself to prevent accidents.

Regular brushing and grooming is crucial to maintain her beautiful coat. You'll need to brush her teeth at least three times a week, as Shih Tzus are prone to serious dental problems.

Cleaning her ears weekly is also vital, even from a young age. This will help prevent infections and keep her comfortable.

Shih Tzus are well-suited for apartment living, but they still need regular exercise and mental stimulation. A daily walk and inside playtime are a must, and you can teach her tricks to keep her mind engaged.

Be mindful of the temperature, as Shih Tzus can be sensitive to warm temperatures. Avoid prolonged exposure and watch for signs of heat stress.

To keep your dog's diet on track, feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age and stick to it consistently. Avoid giving her people food, as this can lead to digestive issues.

Here's a quick rundown of Shih Tzu care essentials:

Regular grooming is essential for the Shih Tzu, requiring daily brushing for up to 30 minutes to prevent matting and tangling in their luxurious coat.

Their coat can become knotted and matted if not properly brushed, so it's crucial to establish a regular grooming routine from an early age.

Bathing is a monthly requirement, but be prepared for some initial displeasure from your puppy as they adjust to being groomed.

As they grow older, they'll become more comfortable with the process, but it's essential to be patient and consistent.

Their exercise needs are relatively low, making them suitable for apartment living, but they still require daily short walks or indoor playtime to stay happy and healthy.

Just a half hour of fun indoor play daily can meet their exercise requirements, making them a great fit for city living.

However, be aware that they can be prone to excessive barking if not trained properly, which may be a concern for neighbors.

If this caught your attention, see: Shih Tzu Coat Type

To prevent this, consider enrolling in a training program to teach them good behavior.

Their independent and proud nature can make training a challenge, but with patience, a firm hand, and consistency, you can overcome this obstacle.

In humid weather, the Shih Tzu is best kept indoors, as they don't adapt well to these conditions.

This means they're not a good fit for outdoor living, but with proper care, they can thrive in an apartment setting.

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Shih Tzus are prone to a variety of breed-specific problems that can affect their quality of life. Patellar luxation, a condition where the kneecap slips out of place, is common in Shih Tzus.

This can cause them to hop or skip with one leg, and in severe cases, surgery may be needed to realign the kneecap. Hip dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the hip joints to form improperly, is also common in Shih Tzus.

Intervertebral disc disease, which affects the cushioning between the vertebrae, can also cause back problems. Breathing problems, such as brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, are caused by narrow nostrils, an elongated soft palate, and everted laryngeal saccules.

This can make breathing more difficult, especially in hot or humid weather, and can be potentially deadly. Eye anomalies, such as dry eye, proptosis, and eye injuries, are also common in Shih Tzus.

Their prominent eyes make them susceptible to a number of eye-related health problems, including epiphora, ocular proptosis, pigmentary keratitis, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, and dry eyes.

Here are some common eye problems in Shih Tzus:

Your Shih Tzu is more likely than other dogs to have a liver disorder called portosystemic shunt (PSS). This condition occurs when some of the blood supply that should go to the liver goes around it instead, depriving the liver of the blood flow it needs to grow and function properly.

If your Shih Tzu develops symptoms such as stunted growth or seizures, we'll test his blood and possibly conduct an ultrasound scan of his liver.

Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition that can affect Shih Tzus, causing their hip joints to form improperly and leading to arthritis. This can result in lameness in their hind legs or difficulty getting up from lying down.

The condition can be caused not only by genetics, but also by factors such as an excessive growth rate, certain types of exercise, improper weight, and an unbalanced diet. The American Kennel Club (AKC) notes that these factors can contribute to the onset of hip dysplasia in Shih Tzus.

Symptoms of hip dysplasia in Shih Tzus include decreased activity, decreased range of motion, difficulty rising, jumping, running, or climbing stairs, lameness, and a swaying gait. You may also notice grating in the joint during movement, loss of thigh muscle mass, enlargement of the shoulder muscles, pain, stiffness, or limping.

The most effective treatment for hip dysplasia in dogs is a total hip replacement, according to the AKC.

Expand your knowledge: Shih Tzu Akc

Shih Tzus are prone to a range of eye problems due to their unique anatomy. Their large, protruding eyes make them more susceptible to injuries, such as scrapes or punctures to the cornea, which can lead to infections and affect their vision.

Injuries to the cornea can be painful and should be treated immediately. Medication and sometimes surgery may be required to prevent further complications.

Glaucoma is another serious eye condition that affects Shih Tzus. It's an extremely painful disease that rapidly leads to blindness if left untreated. Symptoms include squinting, watery eyes, bluing of the cornea, and redness in the whites of the eyes.

Dry eye, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca or KCS, is a common condition in Shih Tzus. The tear glands no longer produce enough tears to keep the eye moist, resulting in sore, itchy eyes and infections.

Here are some common eye problems that can affect Shih Tzus:

Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Shih Tzus. Surgery to remove cataracts and restore sight may also be an option.

Respiratory Distress Syndrome is a common issue in Shih Tzus due to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) breed characteristics.

Breathing difficulties can be exacerbated in hot or humid weather, which can lead to severe symptoms like heatstroke and dehydration.

Shih Tzus are prone to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, a condition that involves narrow nostrils, an elongated soft palate, and everted laryngeal saccules.

Symptoms of this condition include snoring, noisy breathing, exercise intolerance, and heat intolerance, which can be potentially deadly.

Coughing, gagging, retching, and vomiting are also signs of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, and can be more pronounced in hot or humid conditions.

In mild cases, symptoms can be managed by monitoring exercise, avoiding hot and humid conditions, and reducing stress.

However, more severe cases may require surgery to remove tissue from the nostrils, shorten the elongated palate, or remove everted laryngeal saccules.

As a Shih Tzu owner, it's essential to exercise caution on hot and humid days, as breathing difficulties can become life-threatening.

Providing adequate fluids to your dog can help prevent dehydration and heatstroke, but it's crucial to seek veterinary attention immediately if you suspect your dog is having breathing problems.

Related reading: Do Shih Tzus Have Breathing Issues

Dental Abnormalities are a common problem in Shih Tzus, especially in purebred dogs. Malocclusion, or a bad bite, can occur due to genetic factors.

Teeth abnormalities can be caused by genetics and are relatively common in Shih Tzus. Misaligned teeth can be corrected with braces or extractions.

Shih Tzus have tiny mouths, making them more susceptible to dental disease. This increases the risk of tartar and plaque accumulation.

Routine dental examinations and cleanings are crucial for keeping your Shih Tzu's teeth healthy. We'll be watching your buddy's developing teeth closely to ensure they stay strong and healthy.

Take a look at this: Shih Tzu Teeth Issues

Canine ear infections are a common issue in many breeds, but Shih Tzus are particularly prone to them due to their floppy ears and hair-filled ear canals.

Ear mites and yeast/bacterial overgrowth are often the culprits behind ear infections in dogs, and symptoms can range from head shaking to a foul odor.

Ear infections can cause a swollen ear pinna, which is a visible sign that something's amiss.

To diagnose the type of infection present, a veterinarian can perform an ear cytology, which involves taking a sample from within the ear canal using a cotton-tipped swab and examining it under a microscope.

Following a diagnosis, your veterinarian can administer suitable medicine and establish an ear cleaning routine to help prevent future infections.

Regular ear cleaning can go a long way in preventing ear infections in dogs.