✅ The Full Shih Tzu Pet Purchasing Checklist
For those who’re planning to deliver a Shih Tzu pet into your own home, congratulations! These lovable and affectionate canines make fantastic companions. Nonetheless, earlier than you deliver your new furry buddy residence, it’s necessary to be sure to have all the required provides. That can assist you out, we’ve put collectively the final word Shih Tzu pet purchasing listing. From meals and treats to grooming provides and toys, this guidelines of 23 must-have objects will be certain that you’re absolutely ready to welcome your new pet into your life.
1. Shih Tzu Pet Meals
In terms of selecting a very good meals for a shih tzu pet, there are some things to think about. Firstly, the pet’s age. Puppies within the first few weeks of life would require totally different diet than older puppies. For instance, a new child pet will want a meals that’s excessive in fats and protein, whereas an older pet could require a meals that’s decrease in fats and better in fiber. Many shih tzu house owners desire to proceed utilizing the identical meals that the breeder or rescue was utilizing, a minimum of at first. As well as, at all times communicate along with your veterinarian about their meals advice.
To view which pet meals iHeartDogs recommends, go to our information right here.
2. Meals & Water Bowls
When selecting a water and meals bowl for a shih tzu pet, it’s necessary to decide on one that’s simple to wash and won’t harbor micro organism. Plastic bowls are sometimes the preferred alternative, as they’re cheap and might simply get replaced. Nonetheless, plastic bowls usually tend to harbor germs. Stainless metal and ceramic bowls are a good selection, as they’re extra sturdy and don’t maintain onto odors. It’s necessary to decide on a bowl that’s the proper measurement on your shih tzu pet, as too giant of a bowl may make it troublesome for them to eat and drink from it. Moreover, attempt to discover a bowl with a non-slip backside, as this may assist to maintain it from sliding round on the ground when your pet is consuming or consuming. Lastly, verify for any sharp edges that might damage your pet.
3. Leash and Collar (or Harness)
You’ll want a top quality collar and a leash on your new shih tzu pup. Make certain the collar is the proper measurement and cozy on your pup to put on. Consider they’ll seemingly develop out of them rapidly, so you could wish to purchase a number of in numerous sizes.
For collars, we love these easy and sturdy embroidered collars. Having your canine’s title and telephone quantity personalised immediately on the collar is an additional precaution, as canine ID tags can simply put on out and fall off.
4. Canine Crate
For those who plan to crate practice your pup, you’ll want a crate. When selecting a crate on your pet, there are some things to think about. First, make certain to buy one that’s the acceptable measurement on your pet. The crate must be sufficiently big on your pet to comfortably arise, flip round, and lay down, however not too massive that they’ve an excessive amount of additional area. Second, take into account the kind of crate you buy. Wire crates are extra breathable and sometimes lighter, however plastic crates create a extra enclosed area, which is right for puppies which can be anxious or crate-trained. Third, take into consideration the options of the crate. Search for crates with detachable trays, handles, and locks for security and comfort. Lastly, take into account the worth vary of the crate. Many pet shops have a wide range of crates inside totally different value ranges, so you possibly can select one that matches your finances.
5. Shih Tzu Acceptable Toys
When selecting toys for a brand new pet, it’s necessary to search out ones which can be protected and sturdy. Search for toys which can be made with non-toxic supplies, are simply washable, and don’t have small elements that may be chewed off and swallowed. Comfortable, plush toys are nice for cuddling and enjoying, and sturdy rubber or plastic toys can assist with teething. Select a number of toys to maintain your pet entertained and assist them study in regards to the world round them. It’s additionally a good suggestion to rotate toys. Periodically add and take away toys out of your pet’s toy field to maintain them recent and thrilling. And lastly, at all times at all times monitor your pet whereas enjoying to make sure they don’t destroy a toy and it turns into a choking hazard!
7. Pure & Protected Pet Chews
Along with sturdy toys, you’ll seemingly wish to put money into some long-lasting pure chews for you shih tzu pup. Keep away from chews with harmful or artificial elements like rawhide. Our puppies have at all times loved the Earth Animal No-Cover chews. They seems to be and really feel like rawhide, however are constructed from protected, however nonetheless lengthy lasting elements.
8. Grooming Provides
For those who plan to groom your pup your self, you’ll want some fundamental grooming provides. This features a brush, shampoo, nail clippers, and the rest you might want to groom your pup.
9. Canine Mattress
Selecting a good mattress on your new shih tzu pet is necessary. Search for one that’s comfy, supportive, and simply washable. Make certain the mattress is giant sufficient on your pet to develop into, and that the fabric is sturdy sufficient to face up to put on and tear. Select a mattress that’s constructed from a breathable materials to assist maintain your pet cool and cozy. Lastly, search for a mattress that’s simple to wash and preserve.
10. Treats
Selecting good treats for a brand new pet is usually a daunting process. The very first thing to bear in mind is that not all treats are created equal. Some treats comprise unhealthy elements that may trigger well being issues on your pup, so it’s necessary to learn labels and perceive what goes into the treats you’re buying. The subsequent step is to think about the dimensions and kind of deal with you’re in search of. Smaller treats are higher for puppies, as they’re simpler to digest and can assist stop bloating or an upset abdomen. Moreover, you don’t wish to give a deal with your pet can’t chew, as this might result in choking or swallowing a big piece. Coaching measurement treats are often the best choice.
11. Poop Baggage
inventory of poop luggage is completely important. One of the best deal we’ve discovered on eco-friendly luggage is this 540 field on Amazon. Don’t skimp on high quality, as there may be nothing worse than placing your hand right into a poop bag solely to discover a gap!
12. First Support Equipment
Accidents can occur, so it’s necessary to have a pet first help equipment available in case of an emergency. This could embody objects like gauze, bandages, and antiseptic.
13. Pet Probiotics (for the inevitable upset abdomen)
Transitioning to a brand new residence may be annoying to your new shih tzu pup. This stress typically ends in an upset abdomen, which might make potty coaching additional troublesome. high quality, multi-strain probiotic can assist soothe your canine’s abdomen and regulate their bowl actions. We like this 3-in-1 probiotic chew that additionally consists of prebiotics & digestive enzymes.
14. Pet Gate or Pen
There’ll seemingly be instances the place you want to maintain your shih tzu pet contained in a smaller space. There are numerous nice pet gates or pens out there for such a necessity.
15. Pet Toothbrush
Veterinarians suggest getting your new pet use to enamel brushing at an early age. They need to rapidly get use to the thought of somebody touching their enamel. We like these small, almost invisible finger toothbrushes. iHeartDogs is aware of the significance of dental well being for canines (it may save their life as they age) so they offer them away without cost (simply pay S&H)
16. Urine & Odor Cleaner
Accidents occur! Inevitably, you’re going to wish a very good high quality enzymatic urine cleaner. Our favourite system is the Rocco and Roxie stain and odor eliminator on Amazon.
17. Pet Potty Pads
When selecting pee pads on your new pet you will need to take into account the dimensions, absorbency, and materials of the pad. You’ll wish to make certain the pad is giant sufficient on your pet to make use of comfortably and can final all through the day. It’s additionally necessary to think about the absorbency of the pad. Search for a pad that may rapidly and successfully take up liquid and maintain your pet’s paws dry. As well as, you’ll wish to make certain the fabric of the pad is protected on your pet. Keep away from supplies which will comprise harsh chemical substances or irritants that might be dangerous to your pet’s pores and skin. We love these eco-friendly, reusable potty pads on Amazon.
18. ID Tags
One absolute important on your new pup is an ID tag to clip on their collar. In actual fact, go forward and purchase a pair, simply in case one falls off! Make certain to incorporate their title, and a pair of telephone numbers the place you may be reached if somebody finds your pup. All the time bear in mind to take away the collar (together with ID tag) in case your pet is left alone, as it will possibly simply develop into tangled in one thing and threat severe harm. Right here’s a spherical up of our favourite canine ID tag designs.
19. Seat Belt (for Harness)
For those who plan on taking your shih tzu with you within the automobile, a seat belt that connects to their harness is a should! NEVER join a seat belt to your canine’s collar, as even a small affect will put all of the strain in your canine’s neck.
We like this heavy obligation seat belt from Amazon that features a harness as properly.
20. Calming Pet Heartbeat Toy (to assuage anxiousness)
One of the crucial widespread new objects for a shih tzu pet is a calming heartbeat pet plush toy. This plush mimics the heartbeat of a mom canine. It additionally features a one time use warmth pack to imitate the heat as properly. Many canine house owners discover these very helpful for crate coaching or intervals of time when the pet must be left alone.
21. Fish Oil (for Mind Growth)
Though not completely important, in case you had been to present your shih tzu pet one complement, it must be a very good high quality fish oil. Fish oil accommodates Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) that are vital for early mind growth. Whereas some meals comprise a little bit of fish oil, it’s typically a minuscule quantity, and doesn’t survive the excessive warmth processing that kibble requires.
We love this Norwegian salmon oil on Amazon. For those who examine it aspect by aspect subsequent to a typical low high quality fish oil, you’ll see (and scent) an enormous distinction.
22. Mind Video games
Everyone knows puppies must train their our bodies, however what about their brains? Educating a canine to make use of scent to search out treats is known as “nosework” and its turning into an especially widespread solution to interact a bored canine. Bear in mind, a bored pet is a damaging pet!
We love this top quality snuffle mat on Amazon. We tried a number of and there’s a massive distinction in high quality of the material, many get soiled or teat simply.
23. Shih Tzu Pet Coaching Course
Final, however definitely not least: don’t neglect canine coaching! Coaching your shih tzu pet is completely vital for his or her growth. Canine coaching may even save their life in an emergency!
We’re massive followers of SpiritDog coaching, as their on-line programs have glorious, simple to know movies. Additionally they will let you ask limitless inquiries to their trainers.
Right here’s our high suggestions for shih tzu pet coaching programs:
Additionally they have coaching bundles which can be a significantly better worth, since they comprise a number of programs in a single:
By having this stuff available, you’ll be well-prepared on your new shih tzus pup. Whereas it would look like quite a bit to purchase, this stuff are important for offering your pup with the care and a spotlight they want. With the proper provides, you can provide your pup the perfect begin to their life.
Regularly Requested Questions by New Shih Tzu Pet House owners
Bringing a brand new shih tzu pet residence may be an thrilling and fulfilling expertise. Nonetheless, it will possibly additionally include lots of questions and uncertainties. To assist new shih tzu pet house owners, now we have compiled a listing of 4 widespread questions with detailed solutions.
1. How typically ought to I feed my shih tzu pet?
Shih Tzu puppies have to be fed a number of instances a day. As a common rule, you must feed your shih tzu pet 3-4 small meals a day till they’re six months previous. After that, you possibly can scale back their meals to 2-3 instances per day. Shih tzu puppies have small stomachs and want frequent meals to take care of their vitality ranges and assist their development. It’s necessary to decide on a high-quality pet meals that’s specifically formulated for small breeds.
2. How can I potty practice my shih tzu pet?
Potty coaching a shih tzu pet is usually a bit difficult, however it’s necessary to begin early and be constant. Crate coaching may be an efficient solution to potty practice your shih tzu pet. Once you deliver your pet residence, begin by taking them outdoors to the designated potty space steadily. Reward them after they go and provides them a deal with. In case your shih tzu pet has an accident indoors, clear it up instantly and keep away from scolding them. Consistency is essential in potty coaching, so be affected person and sustain with the routine.
3. How a lot train does my shih tzu pet want?
Shih Tzu puppies don’t require lots of train, however they do want each day playtime and psychological stimulation. A 15-20 minute stroll or play session within the yard is often adequate for a shih tzu pet. Watch out to not over-exercise your pet, as they’ll simply get drained and overheat. Interactive toys and puzzle feeders may be nice for psychological stimulation and protecting your pet entertained.
4. How typically ought to I groom my shih tzu pet?
Shih Tzu puppies require common grooming to take care of their fluffy coat and forestall mats and tangles. It is best to brush your shih tzu pet’s coat each day utilizing a slicker brush or comb. Common bathing can be necessary to maintain their coat clear and glossy. Shih Tzu puppies must be bathed each 3-4 weeks utilizing a gentle pet shampoo. It’s necessary to maintain your shih tzu pet’s face clear and dry, as they’re vulnerable to eye infections. You need to use a humid material to wash their face and tear stains each day.
By realizing the solutions to those widespread questions, you possibly can higher put together for all times along with your new shih tzu pet. Bear in mind to be affected person and in step with coaching and care, and your pet will develop as much as be a contented and wholesome companion.
