Shih Tzu Care 101: A Comprehensive Guide to Ownership

Owning a Shih Tzu can be a wonderful experience, but it requires some special care. Shih Tzus are known for their long, flowing coats that require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.

To keep your Shih Tzu's coat in top condition, brush it daily with a pin brush or a slicker brush, paying extra attention to areas where matting tends to occur.

Shih Tzus are small dogs, but they can be quite active, so they need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. A daily walk of about 15-20 minutes should suffice, but be sure to keep an eye on the weather, as Shih Tzus can be sensitive to extreme temperatures.

Shih Tzus are generally a healthy breed, but they can be prone to certain health issues. They have a long lifespan of 10-18 years, but their floppy ears can lead to ear infections and other problems. Their undershot jaw can cause oral health issues, such as misaligned or missing teeth.

Their prominent eyes make them more susceptible to eye problems like cataracts, retinal detachment, and corneal dryness. In fact, Shih Tzus are more likely to develop eye injuries, especially if they ride in cars with their heads out the window.

Some common health issues in Shih Tzus include hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, ear infections, umbilical hernia, and portosystemic liver shunt. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help prevent or manage these conditions.

Here's a list of common health issues in Shih Tzus:

Shih Tzus are prone to dental abnormalities due to their undershot jaw, which can lead to misaligned or missing teeth. Regular brushing and grooming is needed to keep their coat beautiful, but it's also essential to brush their teeth at least three times a week to prevent serious problems.

Teeth abnormalities are often genetically induced and are relatively common in dogs, especially in purebred dogs like your Shih Tzu. A malocclusion, also known as a bad bite, can occur when there's an overbite or underbite, which can cause lots of problems.

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Misaligned teeth can also occur and cause issues, but can usually be corrected with braces or extractions. Yes, dogs can get braces! It's crucial to keep your Shih Tzu's teeth healthy, so regular veterinary appointments are necessary to monitor their mouth and recommend professional cleanings under anesthesia when necessary.

Here are some common dental abnormalities found in Shih Tzus:

Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health issues, including damage to the kidneys, liver, heart, and joints. In fact, your Shih Tzu's life span may even be cut short by one to three years!

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Shih Tzus are prone to eye problems due to their prominent eyes, which make them more susceptible to issues such as cataracts, retinal detachment, corneal dryness, and progressive retinal atrophy.

Red eyes, bulging eyes, eye discharge, and rubbing the eyes are common signs of eye problems in Shih Tzus. These symptoms can be painful and may indicate a serious condition that needs immediate attention.

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To avoid eye irritation, it's essential to trim or pull up the hair around your Shih Tzu's eyes. This will prevent hair from rubbing against their eyes and causing discomfort.

Shih Tzus are also prone to tear staining, which can be caused by excessive tear production or blocked tear ducts. Keeping the area around their eyes clean and dry can help prevent staining.

Some common eye conditions that can affect Shih Tzus include:

If you notice any of these symptoms or signs of eye problems in your Shih Tzu, it's crucial to contact a veterinarian immediately. A damaged cornea can be painful and may require medication and surgery.

Shih Tzus are susceptible to ear infections due to their floppy ears, which can trap moisture and lead to red, painful, and/or itchy ears.

Ear infections can be treated with topical and/or oral medications, and your veterinarian will assess for them with a thorough examination.

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Common symptoms of ear infections in Shih Tzus include lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst and urination, weight loss, and muscle wasting.

Therapy for ear infections may require diet changes, oral medications, and sometimes fluid therapy.

In addition to ear infections, Shih Tzus are also susceptible to bacterial and viral infections such as parvo, rabies, and distemper.

These infections are preventable through vaccination, which your veterinarian will recommend based on your dog's age, the diseases in your area, and other factors.

Here are some common symptoms of infections in Shih Tzus:

Regular ear cleaning with a vet-approved ear cleaner can help reduce the chances of ear infections in Shih Tzus.

Shih Tzus are prone to several bone and joint issues that can cause significant pain and discomfort. Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a common condition in Shih Tzus, caused when the jelly-like cushion between vertebrae slips or ruptures, pressing on the spinal cord.

If your Shih Tzu is suddenly unable or unwilling to jump or go up stairs, is reluctant to move around, has a hunched back, cries out, or refuses to eat or go potty, he is likely in severe pain and may even experience sudden paralysis.

In many cases involving paralysis, surgical removal of the ruptured discs is recommended within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms for the best results. Rest and medication may resolve the problem in less severe cases.

Weight control is crucial in reducing the risk of IVDD, and providing ramps or steps for your pet from puppyhood on can prevent your dog from stressing his back by jumping on and off of the furniture.

Shih Tzus may also experience patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of place. This can cause your pet to suddenly pick up a back leg or skip and hop for a few strides, then kick their leg out sideways to pop the kneecap back in place.

If the problem is mild and involves only one leg, your Shih Tzu may not require much treatment beyond arthritis medication. However, if symptoms are severe, surgery may be needed to realign the kneecap and prevent further luxation.

Hip dysplasia is another common issue in Shih Tzus, an inherited disease that causes the hip joints to form improperly and leads to arthritis. You may notice that your Shih Tzu has lameness in their hind legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down.

Early identification of hip dysplasia is key, and X-rays can help diagnose the disease as early as possible. Treatment of arthritis is essential to avoid discomfort and pain, and surgery may be considered in severe and life-limiting cases.

Here are some common signs of bone and joint issues in Shih Tzus:

Kidney disease is a serious concern for Shih Tzus, affecting their kidneys at an early age.

Glomerulonephropathy is an inherited disease that slowly damages a Shih Tzu's kidneys, causing them to fail.

Early detection of kidney disease can lead to a happier pet and an easier, more affordable treatment plan.

We may be able to diagnose kidney disease by annually testing your pet's urine for excessive protein.

A special diet may be recommended as part of the therapy for kidney disease.

Shih Tzus are prone to multiple types of heart disease, which can occur both early and later in life. This is why regular check-ups with your veterinarian are crucial to detect any potential issues early on.

Heart murmurs and abnormal heart rhythms can be a sign of heart disease in Shih Tzus. Your veterinarian will listen for these signs during an examination.

Early detection of heart disease is key to treating it effectively. With medication, your pet's life can be prolonged for many years.

Veterinary dental care and weight control can also play a significant role in preventing heart disease in Shih Tzus. Regular dental care can help prevent infections that can lead to heart disease, while maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of heart disease.

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Respiratory Distress Syndrome is a common issue in Shih Tzus due to their short noses. This condition, also known as brachycephalic syndrome, affects dogs with a short nose.

The nostrils of Shih Tzus are often too small, and the soft palate at the back of the roof of the mouth is too long and may hang down into the airway. This can lead to a narrow and obstructed airway.

Watch for exercise intolerance, loud breathing, coughing, bluish gums, or fainting in your Shih Tzu. These symptoms can indicate that your dog is experiencing respiratory distress.

In severe cases, surgical correction may be recommended to alleviate airway obstruction. This can be a lifesaving measure for Shih Tzus with severe brachycephalic syndrome.

Here are some common symptoms of Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Shih Tzus:

Your veterinarian may discuss surgery to help correct some of these issues when your Shih Tzu is a puppy. This can help prevent respiratory problems later in life.

Shih Tzus are social dogs that thrive on attention and interaction, so be prepared to spend quality time with your pet. They are generally happy and sociable with people and other animals of all ages.

To keep your Shih Tzu happy and healthy, they need regular exercise, but don't worry, a 30-minute walk and at-home playtime are enough. They are also prone to weight gain, so limit treats and opt for a well-balanced diet.

Shih Tzus have a beautiful, long coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. A "puppy cut" can help keep their coat manageable, but if left uncut, it can grow so long it drags on the ground.

Here's a quick guide to Shih Tzu care:

Shih Tzus only need up to one cup of dry dog food a day, divided into two or three meals. This is because they're a small breed and don't require a lot of food.

A well-balanced diet is crucial for Shih Tzus, and it's best to feed them a high-quality commercial dog food that's easy to pick up and chew. They have a tendency to be prone to obesity, so it's essential to limit treats and snacks.

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Shih Tzus need to eat frequently, especially as puppies, to avoid risks of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). This means feeding them three or four meals a day until they're about a year old.

As Shih Tzus age, their dietary needs change. It's best to consult with a veterinarian to determine the proper meal and snack portions for your pet based on their unique needs and medical history.

Here's a general guideline for feeding Shih Tzus:

Remember to always keep your Shih Tzu's bowl filled with fresh water throughout the day, as they may be more thirsty than usual due to their dry food diet.

Spaying or neutering your Shih Tzu is one of the best things you can do for her health and well-being.

Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers. It also eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies.

Routine blood testing prior to surgery helps us identify and take precautions against common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk.

Performing the surgery gives us a chance to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop, such as needing hip X-rays or a puppy tooth extracted.

Shih Tzus are social butterflies and don't like to spend time alone, so make sure to spend quality time with them.

They need regular exercise, but a 30-minute walk and some at-home playtime is enough to keep them happy and healthy.

Shih Tzus love attention and treats, and they're quick learners, so be prepared to teach them new tricks.

Their long, luxurious coat grows continuously and requires regular grooming, but you can avoid continuous grooming by shaving it short into a "puppy cut".

If you do choose to keep their coat longer, be prepared for weekly brushing and bathing sessions, with professional grooming appointments every few weeks.

Their brachycephalic face can put them at risk for overheating, so keep them indoors during hot summer weather.

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Shih Tzus have a beautiful, flowing coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.

Their coat grows continuously and needs to be trimmed and brushed regularly, even if they don't shed much.

Shih Tzus have a distinctive facial hair that fans out like petals in every direction, including in front of their eyes if left untrimmed.

Their large, round black eyes have an open, trusting gaze.

A Shih Tzu's nose is flat and black, with wide nostrils.

Their ears are covered with thick hair and flop downward.

Shih Tzus have a double coat that can come in a variety of color combinations, often with black, tan, or white markings.

Their tail is set high on their backs and curls toward the front.

To keep their coat looking its best, brush them every day if they have long hair, or every other day if they have a shorter coat.

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Use a pin brush to reach through all the layers of hair and prevent mats and tangles.

You'll also need a fine-tooth comb for their mustache and topknot, which can be tied up or trimmed to a manageable length.

Bathe your Shih Tzu every three weeks to keep their coat and skin healthy.

Brush their teeth daily to prevent dental problems, and trim their nails every three weeks to prevent overgrowth.

Regular grooming is essential to prevent ear infections, which can be caused by hair growing inside the ear canals.

To keep their nails short and trimmed, listen for the sound of their nails tapping on hard surfaces.

Here's a quick rundown of the key grooming tasks for Shih Tzus:

Shih Tzus are prone to ear infections due to hair growing inside their ear canals, so regular cleaning is essential.

Their ears should be checked for redness, swelling, and debris every week, and any signs of infection should be addressed by a veterinarian.

By following these grooming tips, you can help keep your Shih Tzu looking and feeling its best.

Shih Tzus are people pleasers and are usually easy to train, responding well to high-reward treats and positive reinforcement.

They have a sweet disposition and need love and attention, making them wonderful companions due to their small stature, loyalty, and calm spirit.

Shih Tzus are naturally alert dogs and will bark to alert you to new people or things in their environment.

They can be prone to anxiety, so it's essential to use only rewards and positive reinforcement methods when training.

Because they have small bladders, housetraining can be particularly challenging, requiring frequent trips outside and patience.

Shih Tzus are adaptable and can range from a sedentary lifestyle to a more adventurous walk in the park, but they always want to be with their people.

They're intelligent and want to please their pet parents, making them great with children and other animals when socialized at a young age.

Shih Tzus are not big on chewing due to their short muzzles, but many enjoy digging and some might be prone to nuisance barking.

To overcome their stubborn streak, it's crucial to use a blend of consistency, gentleness, and firmness, along with plenty of praise and rewards.

Shih Tzus are excellent watchdogs, always on alert for someone approaching your home and will let you know they're coming.

They're worth the effort, with their loyalty and calm manner in all types of situations serving them well as emotional support animals.

Shih Tzus are generally a low-maintenance breed when it comes to exercise, but they still need attention and playtime to be happy.

To keep your Shih Tzu healthy and happy, it's essential to establish a routine care schedule that includes regular brushing and grooming to keep their coat beautiful.

Shih Tzus are prone to obesity, which can lead to serious health issues like diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease. Limit treats to less than 10% of their daily calorie intake and ensure they get 20-30 minutes of controlled exercise daily.

To prevent obesity, give your Shih Tzu a hug, brush their fur or teeth, play a game with them, or take them for a walk instead of feeding them leftover people food or doggie treats.

Shih Tzus are also susceptible to parasites like fleas, ticks, and worms, which can cause pain, discomfort, and even death. Regular testing and preventive medication can help keep them healthy.

Allergies are another common issue in Shih Tzus, causing itching and inflammation in the ears and elsewhere. Be sure to monitor for signs like scratching, shaking their head, or a foul odor from the ears, and seek veterinary help if you notice any of these symptoms.

Here are some key signs to watch for in your Shih Tzu:

Shih Tzus are prone to obesity, which can lead to serious health problems like joint issues, diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and difficulty breathing. Limit treats to less than 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake.

It's essential to recognize the signs of obesity in Shih Tzus, as it can be a significant health problem. Obesity can cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease.

Shih Tzus need regular exercise, such as 20-30 minutes of controlled activity like walks and playtime, to stay healthy. This can help prevent obesity and related issues.

If you notice any abnormal symptoms in your Shih Tzu, it's crucial to seek veterinary help. Many diseases in dogs have a characteristic combination of symptoms that can signal the need for medical attention.

Parasites are a serious concern for Shih Tzus, and it's essential to test for them on a regular basis.

Shih Tzus can get parasites from drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito.

Fleas, ticks, ear mites, hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms are all common parasites that can infest a Shih Tzu's body, inside and out.

These parasites can cause pain, discomfort, and even death in a Shih Tzu, so it's crucial to take preventive measures.

Preventive medication can be recommended to keep a Shih Tzu healthy, and it's also important to be aware that some parasites can be transmitted to humans.

Your Shih Tzu is more likely than other dogs to have a liver disorder called portosystemic shunt (PSS). This condition means 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 has PSS, his liver cannot remove toxins from his bloodstream effectively. This can lead to serious health issues if left untreated.

To check for PSS, we'll conduct a liver function test in addition to a standard pre-anesthetic panel every time your Shih Tzu undergoes anesthesia. This is crucial because anesthesia can worsen liver problems.

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. These tests will help us determine the best course of action.

In some cases, we can treat PSS with a special diet and medication. However, surgery may be needed in more severe cases.

Allergies are a common issue for Shih Tzus, with symptoms typically starting between the ages of one and three.

Shih Tzus often suffer from skin allergies, also known as atopy, which causes itching and inflammation in the feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears. This condition can get worse every year if left untreated.

Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are common signs of allergies in Shih Tzus. If you notice your dog doing any of these things, it's essential to take action.

Ear infections can be painful and annoying for your dog, and can even lead to deafness if left untreated. Monitoring for ear infections and treating them early can help reduce the likelihood of eardrum damage.

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

Shih Tzus are prone to a few health issues that you should be aware of. One of the most common is brachycephalic syndrome, which affects dogs with flat faces, like your Shih Tzu.

This condition is characterized by upper airway abnormalities such as small nostrils, a long soft palate, collapsing trachea, and extra tissue in the back of the throat. These aspects can cause trouble breathing and make Shih Tzus more prone to overheating.

Dogs with brachycephalic syndrome may exhibit signs like exercise intolerance, loud breathing, coughing, bluish gums, or fainting. In severe cases, your veterinarian may discuss surgery to help correct some of these issues.

Here are some common signs of brachycephalic syndrome to watch out for:

Another condition that affects Shih Tzus is patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of its normal position, causing discomfort, limping, and arthritis. Dogs with luxating patellas may occasionally skip and hold up a back leg during walking.

Brachycephalic Syndrome is a common health issue in Shih Tzus, characterized by upper airway abnormalities.

Dogs with flat faces, such as the Shih Tzu, often have small nostrils that can cause trouble breathing. A long, soft palate can also obstruct the airway, making breathing even more difficult.

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Collapsing trachea and extra tissue in the back of the throat can further narrow the airway, leading to breathing problems.

Shih Tzus with brachycephalic syndrome are more prone to overheating due to their narrow airways.

Exercise intolerance, loud breathing, coughing, bluish gums, or fainting are all symptoms of brachycephalic syndrome in Shih Tzus.

Surgical correction may be recommended in severe cases to alleviate airway obstruction and improve breathing.

Here are some common characteristics of brachycephalic syndrome in Shih Tzus:

It's essential to work closely with your veterinarian to monitor your Shih Tzu's symptoms and determine the best course of action.

Luxating Patellas can be a real challenge for our furry friends. Dogs with this condition will occasionally skip and hold up a back leg during walking.

The kneecap slipping out of its normal position causes discomfort and arthritis. In severe cases, surgery is recommended to alleviate the issue.

It's not uncommon for the patella to return to its normal position on its own, but sometimes that's not the case.

Shih Tzus are generally healthy dogs, but like any breed, they can be prone to certain health issues.

Their floppy ears can cause two main problems: ear infections and difficulties in hearing.

Shih Tzus often experience oral health problems due to their undershot jaw, including misaligned or missing teeth.

In some cases, their baby teeth may not fall out before their permanent teeth come in, requiring a vet visit for extraction.

Their prominent eyes make them more susceptible to eye problems such as cataracts, retinal detachment, corneal dryness, and progressive retinal atrophy.

Hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and umbilical hernia are other potential health issues Shih Tzus may face.

A portosystemic liver shunt is an abnormal vessel that can allow blood from the intestine to bypass the liver, which can be a serious condition.

Here are some common health issues Shih Tzus may encounter:

Shih Tzus are small dogs with a long, flowing coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.

They typically weigh between 9 and 16 pounds and stand between 8 and 11 inches tall at the shoulder.

Shih Tzus are known for their outgoing and friendly personalities, making them a great choice for families with children or for people who want a low-maintenance companion.

Their short snout can make breathing difficult in hot or humid weather, so it's essential to keep them cool and comfortable in extreme temperatures.

Shih Tzus are generally quiet dogs, but they can be prone to barking if they're not properly trained or if they're bored or lonely.

They thrive on attention and affection, so they make great lap dogs for people who enjoy cuddling with their pets.

Shih Tzus are relatively low-maintenance dogs when it comes to exercise, but they still need regular walks and playtime to stay happy and healthy.

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