The Shih Tzu, a breed with roots in Tibet, is celebrated for its robustness and diminutive size. This esteemed breed is embellished by a sumptuous, lengthy double coat that mirrors its noble lineage. Exuding self-assurance and bravery, the Shih Tzu has captured the hearts of toy dog aficionados. With ample training and care, these dogs can become splendid home pets, particularly suited for apartment dwellers due to their compact size. As a bonus, they are regarded as hypoallergenic, making them suitable for individuals with allergies.
Breed Overview:
Group: Toy
Height: Ranging from 8 to 11 inches
Weight: Between 9 to 16 pounds
Coat: Luxurious long double coat
Coat Color: Found in nearly any color, most commonly in black, white, blue, gold, liver, or combinations
Life Span: An impressive 10 to 16 years
Temperament: Personifying traits such as friendliness, intelligence, playfulness, loyalty, and liveliness
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Origin: Tibet
Characteristics of the Shih Tzu:
The Shih Tzu is cherished for its endearing and affectionate disposition. These dogs relish human attention and crave quality time with their owners. They acclimate quickly to new people and seamlessly adapt to family environments, regardless of size.
Shih Tzu Care:
Despite their petite size and sharp wit, Shih Tzus necessitate moderate levels of care. Possessing a moderate energy level, they require routine physical stimulation through activities like daily walks and engaging games. While they are well-suited for apartment life, caution should be exercised to prevent overexposure to extreme heat, owing to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) features which may lead to heat exhaustion.
Grooming:
The Shih Tzu’s coat experiences continuous growth with minimal shedding, leading to its classification as a low-allergy breed by many. However, it’s important to note that allergens are still present in their dander and saliva. Therefore, those with allergies should spend time with a Shih Tzu before committing to adoption. Frequent grooming is essential for maintaining their coat, including brushing at least once or twice weekly, with daily brushing for longer coats, and trimming every few weeks.
Training:
Consistent training and socialization are vital for nurturing a content and well-adjusted Shih Tzu. Despite their small stature, these pooches can display a streak of stubbornness and may develop undesirable behaviors without proper early training. They can pose challenges during housebreaking and might be prone to barking, hence the need for focused training in this area. Shih Tzus thrive in multi-pet households, getting along well with other friendly dogs and cats, and can form strong bonds with children, provided they are handled gently and with respect.
Common Health Concerns
While generally robust, the Shih Tzu’s health profile is marked by several challenges:
Brachycephalic Syndrome: This inherited condition, common to many flat-faced breeds, leads to breathing difficulties. Symptoms such as snoring, labored breathing, and exercise intolerance may be seen.
Hip Dysplasia: A disorder affecting the hip joint can result in pain, muscle wastage, and an unsteady gait.
Patellar Luxation: Occurs when the kneecap is displaced, causing limp and abnormal leg positioning.
Intervertebral Disc Disease: An age-related spine issue, colloquially known as a “slipped disc,” which can cause pain and mobility issues.
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca: An autoimmune-driven dry eye syndrome leading to discharge, redness, and crusting around the eyes.
Distichiasis: Abnormal hair growth on the eyelids that may lead to corneal ulcers and scarring due to irritation.
Conscientious breeding practices aim to minimize these health risks by upholding breed standards set by kennel clubs like the AKC.
Dietary Needs and Nutrition
Being a small breed, the Shih Tzu requires a measured diet, typically capping at one cup of dry food daily. However, this quantity varies based on the dog’s age, activity level, size, and overall health. Ensuring your dog maintains a healthy weight is essential, thus seeking veterinary advice for tailored nutrition plans is advisable.
Pros and Cons of Shih Tzu Ownership
Pros:
Tender and affectionate nature
Great rapport with children
Enjoys close human contact, often preferring laps
Suitability for smaller living spaces
Harmonizes well with other pets and dogs
Cons:
High-maintenance coats requiring routine grooming
Housetraining can present challenges
Prone to respiratory issues due to Brachycephalic Syndrome
Susceptibility to various health conditions
Grooming Routine
The long, luxurious coat of the Shih Tzu necessitates regular attention. Weekly brushing and bi-weekly bathing and grooming sessions are recommended. For owners who prefer assistance, professional grooming services offer a convenient solution.
Reproduction and Litter Information
Shih Tzu litters are usually comprised of three to four puppies, although primiparous mothers may only produce one or two offspring.
Training Tips
Known for their headstrong nature, Shih Tzus can be challenging to train. However, with patience and consistency, training can be achieved through online platforms, literature, or professional trainers.