Knowledge is Power
Did you know this about Shih Tzu?
- A Shih Tzu Is a short nose breed -making the Shih Tzu's face a concern to check often .
- Check eyes daily...Very easy for this breed to get eye injuries or third eyelid to get infected.
- Shih Tzu puppies should not be given pills at any age, but especially not before 16 weeks. Pills should be crushed and given with a capsule or sprinkled on small amount of food. Never make it into a meatball shape. That could get caught in the shih Tzu small esophagus.
- Puppies need lots of sleep and safety. Up to 15-20 hours depending on age.
- Shih Tzu retain baby teeth, often have overcrowded, usually under bitted, get tarter build up and need to be brushed or scaled regularly. Remove baby teeth at sterilization time.
- Shih Tzu can be stubborn, So a constant routine of potty-training needs to be followed, but once mastered-becomes a breeze
- You should not breed your pet- Shih Tzu. Mother Shih Tzu need professional help birthing. Should never be left alone on their own when pregnant. Many problems can arise and someone with experience should always be there. Birthing can kill mother and or babies.
- Shih Tzu must be kept warm core temp of 102 o. Use a Heating pad should be used all the time in winter,
- Shih Tzu can catch colds easily. Antibiotics can help, but sometimes it must run it's course. Puppies before first shot have very little amenity to diseases.
- Kennel Cough is cached easily and sounds horrible, but in about 2 weeks will be gone. Hardest on Young puppies and older dogs.
- Shih Tzu should not be fenced in with invisible fence, because other larger dogs can still get in and hurt or kill your little fluff ball.
- Shih Tzu reverse sneezing, it looks like they are chocking or can not catch their breath. Just calm them down it will pass quickly.
- Shih Tzu love to be taken outside for walks. However, they can get enough exercise in an apartment if not able to go out. Shih Tzu will run around chasing nothing for 15 minutes a day, inside and get their daily exercise themselves.
- They love to howl which is very common in a packs and are very happy when companion comes home..
- Our Shih Tzu will fetch and can be easily trained for obedience and other fun activities.
- Start early training for leash and potty. It is worth the extra effort it takes because one they got it down they will not forget.
- When you buy from a dedicated breeder, who is breeding for future, you have a chance to acquire a well-bred, professionally raised puppy. Ours get socialized, use stairs, look in mirrors and are given affection every day.
- Hair around the eyes should be pushed forward daily and sleepiness should be cleaned out. They can see, threw it. The hair helps protect the eyes from dust and banging into things. So please do not cut wishers or lashes, because it helps them protect their eyes and face.
- Do not be in a hurry. Reputable breeders do not have puppies available all the time, but our puppies will be worth the wait and can watch them grow in the nursery with weekly pictures and up dates..
- Shih Tzu think they can Fly- they have confidence, are usually not afraid to explore and jump off high things. They can hurt themselves just from being to confident. So when younger always keep an eye on them.
- Worms are very common and need to be done several times a year and a once year (5 way) booster. 1 st shot and worming will be done before you take a puppy home.
- Shih Tzu sometimes need a little honey on their tongue, if they seem week or not eating. They often get low blood sugar. Ours do not have this problem usually, but is good to keep in mind. When needed.
- Take the same amount of time in finding a good .....veterinarian I have heard so many horror stories including death. Find A veterinarian that cares about you and your puppy.
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Shih Tzu are a happy little house dog that loves to spend time with their families. Shih tzu are known for their gentle friendly nature that pairs well with children and other pets. Shih Tzu expect to be papered it's in their genes.... they are lively and alert. They are smart and remarkably confident in getting what they want in their own way. Shih Tzu can be very persistent but it's rewarding for anyone caring for these adorable smush face cutie pie.