Shih Tzus, which means “lion” or “little lion,” is a popular toy breed known for its lap dog tendencies and fun-loving temperament. Active pups are excellent family dogs, but they must be socialized and groomed regularly to keep their long coat in good condition.
Shih Tzus have an average lifespan of 10 to 18 years, although they are prone to several health issues. Before acquiring or adopting this breed, consider the costs associated with managing or treating these illnesses. Purchasing the best pet insurance might assist in reducing the cost.
Overview of Shih Tzus
Shi Tzus are one of the oldest dog breeds, with ancestors dating back as far as 1000 BC. These ancient dogs, believed to have originated in Tibet, were offered as royal presents to China’s emperors.
Shi Tzus, a blend of Tibetan lion dogs and other small breeds such as the Pekinese, were created to resemble little lions and alert their owners to oncoming visitors. However, in the hands of Chinese emperors, the little dogs became companion animals, dressed in satin and looked after by their staff. Shih tzus were so treasured that only royalty could own one.
The Shih tzu breed was introduced to England, Northern Europe, and Scandinavia in the 1930s. Following the 1945 Communist revolution, the majority, if not all, Shi Tzus in China were slaughtered because they represented wealth.
By 1955, these little dogs had become popular in the West, with populations rapidly increasing in nations such as England and the United Kingdom. The Shih Tzu was recognized as an official breed by the American Kennel Club in 1969, and they were placed in the Toy Group. Today, Shi Tzus are among the most popular dog breeds in the United States.
Physical Characteristics of Shih Tzus
Small, but robust. Shi Tzus typically weighs 9 to 16 pounds and stands 9 to 10.5 inches tall at the shoulder, according to Dr. Danny Cox, D.V.M., chief veterinary medical officer of Petzey, an on-demand veterinary consultation service.
Their long, flowing double coats tangle easily, so many pet owners prefer to have their Shih Tzu’s coat clipped short. Shi Tzus comes in a range of hues and patterns, such as black, white, brown, and brindle.
Shi Tzus are affectionately known as “chrysanthemum-faced” because of their facial hair, which grows in all directions from their muzzle, much like a chrysanthemum flower petal blooming.
Shih Tzu Temperament and Personality Traits
Shi Tzus are little dogs that resemble lions yet are loving in nature. Shi Tzus, when properly socialized, make excellent companions who lavish their owners with love and attention.
Positive Temperament Traits
Shi Tzus are affectionate and enjoy being around their owners. They also get along well with youngsters and other pets.
Shi Tzus, according to Cox, has low activity but appreciates daily walks, toy play, and a fenced garden for supervised exploring.
Adaptable: Their compact size allows them to be easily transported and cared for, even in small dwellings.
Negative Temperament Traits
Separation anxiety: “Because they love attending to their owner, separation anxiety can become an issue with this breed,” explains Traci Madson, a trained dog behavior expert and owner of Three Little Pits Pawsitive Dog Training.
To minimize separation anxiety, Madson suggests educating your shih tzu to feel comfortable alone from the time they are puppies. Begin by leaving them alone for small amounts of time, then gradually increase the length of time you spend away—and make sure to shower them with love and attention when you return.
“Stranger danger”: According to Madson, Shi Tzus may bark at strangers or anyone approaching their owner.
Shi Tzus barked at practically any sound, including the doorbell or a knock on the door.
However, Shi Tzus is very friendly and obedient when properly educated and socialized from a young age.
How Shih Tzu Temperament Changes Throughout Life
Shi Tzus are often fun-loving and affectionate all their lives. However, you should expect minor temperament changes that will impact their care as they progress through life stages.
Puppyhood and Early Temperament
Shih Tzu puppies, like any puppies, are energetic and eager to explore their new surroundings. They will require regular toilet breaks and feedings. During your puppy’s vital socialization time, it is critical to positively expose them to new people, places, and experiences. This will aid in their development into well-adjusted and well-behaved adult canines.
Consider the following tips for socializing your Shih Tzu puppy:
Introduce them to new people, locations, and objects. Take your puppy to various locations, allowing them to see new people and pets from a distance. Introduce them to new stimuli, such as various noises, sights, and sensations. Always match new experiences with positive reinforcement, such as treats, games, or praise.
Enroll them in a puppy kindergarten course. Once your puppy has gotten their essential vaccinations, they can attend puppy kindergarten, where they will interact with other puppies and people.
Take them on playdates with other puppies. This is another excellent approach for your puppy to learn how to interact and play with other dogs.
Adulthood and Mature Temperament
Adult Shi Tzus who were properly socialized as puppies are friendly, gentle, and adaptable canines. They don’t require much movement and are satisfied to sit on your lap and go for a few walks each day. Because of their modest size and exercise requirements, they make excellent apartment pets, as long as they have been trained not to bark.
Senior Year and Changing Temperament
Senior Shi Tzus are just as affectionate as their younger counterparts, but they may need extra care owing to age-related problems including vision loss and arthritis. The finest pet insurance for senior dogs can help with age-related veterinary expenses.
Here are some recommendations for caring for a Shih Tzu who has reached its golden years:
Make your home secure and accessible. To help your Shih Tzu reach hard-to-reach resting locations, lay nonslip rugs on hardwood floors and a ramp or steps.
Show patience and understanding. Senior Shi Tzus may bark more than normal because they are having difficulty recognizing familiar faces or are more apprehensive of strangers as their vision declines.
Change their diet and workout habits. Ask your veterinarian if your dog would benefit from a senior dog food diet. Many include joint-healthy substances like glucosamine and chondroitin, which may help your dog’s mobility. Senior Shi Tzus still needs brief walks every day, but they may not spend as much time running and playing.
Give them lots of love and attention. Shi Tzus grow older and become more pleased to relax and cuddle with their owners.
Common Shih Tzu Health Concerns:
Shih Tzu’s prevalent health concerns include the following:
Brachycephalic Syndrome
- Hip dysplasia.
- Eye issues.
- Skin Infections
- Dental difficulties.
Creating A Happy Home for Shih Tzus
Shih Tzu’s exercise needs
Shi Tzus, according to Cox, requires little exercise. They need short, regular walks and like playing in the backyard. Their small legs and flat faces make them unsuitable for strenuous hikes or activities. They can live in apartments or homes as long as they are given plenty of toys to keep them entertained.
Shih Tzu socialization and training
As portable as they are, Madson emphasizes the need to foster independence and socializing in your Shih Tzu. Training dogs to be left alone for extended periods, as well as mingling with other pets and strangers, can help reduce separation anxiety and excessive barking.
Shi Tzus, like other dogs, responds best to persistent, positive reinforcement training. Shih Tzus get along nicely with children and other pets when they are properly socialized and introduced.
Shih Tzu grooming needs
Shih Tzus have long, flowing coats that are fluffy in puppyhood and silky smooth in adulthood. Their mane is prone to matting and knots; therefore, it must be groomed daily.
Shih Tzus should also have their hair clipped around their eyes and ears. Long hair around the eyes can irritate them, and long hair in the ear canals can trap moisture and lead to infections. Consult your veterinarian if you observe redness in your eyes or ears, unusual discharge, or a bad odor emanating from your ears.
Some pet parents prefer to take their Shih Tzu to the groomer for a routine haircut, which can assist in lessening the amount of maintenance needed at home.
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