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So that you’re occupied with getting a shih tzu however ponder whether it’s the proper breed for your loved ones.
Shih tzus are candy, pleasant canines and might be nice even for first-time pet mother and father.
However, earlier than you make your choice, you should know one thing about them, resembling potential well being issues and grooming wants.
I’ve had three shih tzus and have skilled many for different folks.
They’re cute and seem like stuffed toys. And they’re filled with character and spunky.
Though they’re good canines, shih tzus aren’t the best to coach.
My first shih tzu, Cuddles (appropriately named as she was cuddly), was a tan-and-white ball of fur. She cherished everybody and discovered many cues and methods.
My second, a black-and-white tzu, named China turned a remedy canine and obedience canine.
Trevor, my third, was a rescue who additionally turned a remedy canine and was proven in obedience and rally.
36 Info About Shih Tzus: What’s Good About Them and What’s Dangerous About Them
1. Shih Tzus Are Categorized as Toy Canines by the American Kennel Membership (AKC)
They’re small, sturdy canines for his or her measurement. The breed is pronounced “sheed-zoo.”
2. Shih Tzus Are High-quality for Novice Homeowners
So long as you may meet their wants (mentioned under), shih tzus are effective for novice house owners.
They’re pets who have been bred to be lap canines. So that you don’t have to fulfill any wants that you’d for working canines resembling herding or sporting breeds.
3. Shih Tzus Are an Historical Breed Who Are Companions, Not Working Canines
One of many 14 oldest canine breeds, they’ve existed as early as 8,000 B.C.
Imperial breeders within the palace of the Chinese language Emperor developed the shih tzu many centuries in the past from Tibetan breeding inventory.
Though there’s some thriller how the breed developed, it’s thought that shih tzus have been initially bred from two Sino-Tibetan breeds, the Lhasa Apso and the Pekingese.
Cherished lap canines of Chinese language emperors and their households, shih tzus have been hidden behind palace partitions till the Thirties.
Then breed golf equipment started forming in Peking and England. The primary shih tzu was registered by the AKC in 1969.
4. Shih Tzus Are Generally known as Lion Canines
Though they’re removed from fierce, shih tzus are often known as “lion canines.”
- In Mandarin, “ shih tzu” means “little lion,” which is an animal thought-about to be sacred within the Buddhist faith. Lions symbolize royalty, energy, and bravado. And shih tzus are courageous canines with an aristocratic air.
- Pairs of statues of lions or lion canines–known as Foo (or Fu) Canines– are situated outdoors guard palace doorways, tombs, temples, and public buildings to guard these buildings from dangerous people and non secular influences.
- Fu interprets to “joyful” in Manchurian. Legion has it that joyful Foo (Fu) canines are shih tzus who ceaselessly guard the temple of Buddha.
- Legend has it {that a} shih tzu accompanied the Buddha of knowledge, Manjushri, and will turn out to be a lion and carry the Buddha on its again. The story is that a number of robbers surrounded Buddha to rob and homicide him. It’s stated that the shih tzu reworked right into a ferocious lion, scaring the robbers who shortly fled the scene. Buddha blessed the shih tu, who had returned to the type of a canine. So there’s a protracted, everlasting custom linking shih tzus with the Buddha.
5. Some Shih Tzus Are Well-known
- A shih tzu was a fundamental canine character named Miss Agnes within the film Greatest in Present
- The online game character Isabelle’s design (from the favored online game franchise Animal Crossing) relies on the options of a Shih Tzu. And her unique title in Japanese, Shizue, appears to be primarily based on the title of the canine breed
- Many well-known folks have owned–or have been owned by–shih tzus, resembling: Nicole Richie, Kelly Ripa, Queen Elizabeth, Mariah Carey, Beyonce, Invoice Gates, the Dalai Lama, Phyllis Diller, Zsa Zsa Gabor, Colin Farrell, Oleg Cassini, Vidal Sassoon, Andie MacDowell, Jane Seymour, and Colin Farrell–to call a number of
- The Instagram Sensation Marnie, a rescued shih tzu who was identified for her extraordinary lengthy tongue, has charmed many celebrities
6. Shih Tzus Don’t Require A lot Train
Not like working breeds, shih tzus don’t require a variety of train. A brief stroll and some play periods meet the canine’s wants.
So, when you’re in search of a sofa potato and lap canine, a shih tzu is a good companion.
7. They Don’t Make Good Mountaineering, Jogging, Biking, or Swimming Buddies
Should you’re serious about having a canine who will accompany you on hikes or whereas biking or jogging, a shih tzu isn’t for you.
They don’t have the stamina. With their quick legs and lengthy our bodies, they couldn’t sustain. And a shih tzu would overheat on such ventures.
Due to their physique conformation, shih tzus additionally don’t usually swim very effectively.
8. Socialization Is Essential for a Pleasant, Assured Canine
Shih tzus are naturally pleasant, assured canines. However they nonetheless require socialization in order that they turn out to be all that they need to be.
And, in the event that they aren’t correctly socialized, they might turn out to be afraid of the world.
Or, they’ll doubtlessly develop “small canine syndrome” and turn out to be protecting and aggressive.
9. Obedience Coaching Ought to Be Enjoyable With Brief Periods
Though shih tzus are clever, they’ll shortly tire of robotic obedience drill periods.
Endurance is a advantage when coaching a shih tzu.
They have been bred to be pets, not tireless staff. And so they have an unbiased, cussed streak.
So preserve coaching periods quick with just some repetitions of every cue, then transfer on. Play in between.
Use optimistic reinforcement of yummy treats, reward, petting, and play.
Shih tzus are very bonded to their house owners and can love to coach when you make the session enjoyable.
Though many individuals have famous that they might require many repetitions to be taught a command, I’ve discovered that they’re prepared learners when skilled correctly.
No, they’re not going to be border collies or Aussies, however they’ll be taught many instructions.
You might have to interrupt down some extra sophisticated behaviors and train them in additional steps than you’d for a working breed.
And you will have to, over time, do extra repetitions for reliability, however they’ll be taught even sophisticated duties.
My shih tzu Cuddles received trick contests and even discovered sophisticated behaviors. For instance, I taught her to “reply” a baby’s cellphone.
After I stated “reply the cellphone,” she picked up and dropped the receiver, then spoke.
After I taught it, I broke the trick down into 4 behaviors: take the receiver; maintain it; drop it; and converse. It took weeks for reliability.
My shih tzu China was a prime obedience shih tzu who discovered many methods and to take and retrieve a dumbbell, go over jumps, heel, scent work, lengthy sit and down keep, and way more.
Trevor, my rescued shih tzu, additionally discovered methods, formal obedience, and rally obedience.
So, sure, shih tzus are able to studying sophisticated behaviors when you have the persistence to show them.
10. They Require Psychological Stimulation
In order that they don’t turn out to be bored and to develop their minds, play video games with them.
Have your shih tzu fetch. Present enrichment actions resembling puzzle toys.
11. They Are Nice Trick Canines and Remedy Canines
Since shih tzus are very pleasant and have a steady temperament when bred, skilled, and socialized correctly, they’ll make nice remedy canines.
They shouldn’t be skittish. A shih tzu shouldn’t be fazed by the tools present in nursing properties and hospitals.
Two of my shih tzus have been remedy canines who go to hospital sufferers on a weekly foundation. They cherished it as a lot because the sufferers and workers loved assembly with them.
Shih tzus may also be distinctive trick canines. They get uninterested in repetitive instructions.
So studying new methods must be a enjoyable studying expertise. Dance, beg, roll over, and converse might be nice occasion methods for a shih tzu.
12. Not Simply One other Fairly Face: Shih Tzus Can Excel at Canine Sports activities
When skilled utilizing optimistic reinforcement, shih tzus can do effectively in lots of canine actions, resembling:
- Obedience
- Rally
- Agility
- Canine musical freestyle (aka dancing with canines)
- Tips
Two individuals who I turned pleasant with at canine reveals achieved superior titles with their shih tzus in agility and rally.
And mine have been very achieved in methods and aggressive obedience and rally.
13. Shih Tzus Love Everybody: Adults, Kids, and Different Canines
A shih tzu who has been well-bred, skilled, and socialized must be pleasant to everybody.
So, when you have kids who respect a canine and aren’t tough, it might be an ideal match.
However you must guarantee your shih tzu’s security from toddlers and different canines.
14. They Are Playful and Love Consideration
Should you’re in search of a pleasant companion who needs to be with you, a shih tzu could be a nice companion.
Though they like to be with you, they aren’t needy like some breeds and might be left to occupy themselves.
So long as a shih tzu’s socialization, train, and coaching wants are met, he’s not prone to develop separation nervousness.
15. Shih Tzus Are Nice Lap Canines
Not like their cousin, the Lhasa apso (for which they’re typically mistaken), shih tzus love being a lap canine.
16. They Are Tough to Home Prepare
Shih tzus are notoriously exhausting to home practice. Another small breeds are a lot simpler though each have small bladders.
I obtained fortunate with my first shih tzu pet, Cuddles. She home skilled fairly shortly and was fairly dependable inside weeks.
However my second, China, was the conventional shih tzu. It took months for her to be dependable. I even took a while off to assist her alongside the method.
However, with persistence and persistence, I haven’t met a wholesome shih tzu who couldn’t be reliably home skilled. Additionally, you may practice them to use potty pads to your comfort and in case they should go to the lavatory once you’re away.
17. They Adapt To Most Locations
Shih tzus are nice in residences or homes. They adapt to the place you reside.
18. They Don’t Do Nicely in Temperature Extremes
Shih tzus are a brachycephalic breed. Their flat face makes them liable to warmth exhaustion.
So, when you dwell the place it will get highly regarded, make it possible for your shih tzu isn’t taken outdoors apart from a fast potty break in the course of the hottest a part of the day.
Have him stay in air con, enjoyable. In spite of everything, they have been bred as treasured companions who lived in Imperial palaces.
And when it’s too chilly, a shih tzu shouldn’t be taken out for greater than a potty break.
In chilly climate, you may put a coat or sweater in your shih tzu.
19. They Are Quiet Canines
Though shih tzus could bark often, they aren’t a loud breed.
20. They Are Small
Shih tzus measure 9 to 10.5 inches on the shoulder and weigh between 9 and 16 kilos.
21. There Is No Teacup or Imperial Shih Tzu
Shih tzus must be between 9 and 16 kilos. Run from unscrupulous breeders who attempt to promote miniature or bigger variations.
22. Shih Tzus Are Moveable and Nice Journey Companions
Get your shih tzu used to touring when he’s younger in order that he doesn’t turn out to be automotive sick. Then you may take him with you in your adventures.
There are various automotive seats for small canines that shall be excellent for a shih tzu.
And there are small kennels and comfortable journey luggage to move him. You possibly can even carry him in a pouch made for that function.
I used to take my shih tzus in shops in a procuring cart. I’d place a canine mattress within the backside of the cart, and my canine would fortunately accompany me on my spending spree.
23. Take Your Shih Tzu Out on a Harness
It’s finest to take your shih tzu for walks in a well-fitting harness. Their necks are liable to tracheal harm if an excessive amount of stress is placed on their neck as can happen in a collar.
24. Shih Tzus Require Common Grooming, Which Can Be Costly
A shih tzu who’s stored in a protracted, flowing double coat that isn’t reduce requires each day brushing and brushing that lightly reaches to the pores and skin.
Grooming is for his well being in addition to his look.
You need to use a pin brush, slicker brush, and greyhound comb. The facial hair and topknot have to be combed each day.
If not correctly groomed, a shih tzu can turn out to be a matted mess.
Every day cleansing of the corners of the eyes is required.
And don’t overlook to brush the closely plumed tail that’s carried in a curve over his again.
You possibly can select to maintain your shih tzu in a pet reduce for simpler coat care.
You continue to must brush the coat and facial hair. However the brushing and brushing are a lot simpler on you–and the canine.
A pet reduce retains your shih tzu wanting younger and classy.
You possibly can have knowledgeable groomer carry out a pet clip. However I received’t idiot you: a very good groomer is pricey however value it.
Your shih tzu will have to be clipped each six to eight weeks, relying on how briskly his coat grows.
You continue to must brush and comb each day, however the periods shall be shorter than when a shih tzu is stored in full coat.
I’ve stored my shih tzus in pet cuts, with the facial beard and tail hair stored longer to take care of the look of the breed. I discovered groom them from breeders and groomers I do know.
In fact, you additionally must trim their nails each week or two and examine–and clear if needed–their ears on a weekly foundation.
As a result of they require such routine, intensive grooming, get them used to being dealt with and groomed as puppies.
25. They Don’t Shed and Are “Hypoallergenic”
Though no canine is really hypoallergenic, shih tzus come shut.
They’ve hair, not fur. And, if groomed and bathed frequently, they might be effective for some people who find themselves allergic to canines.
26. Shih Tzus Are available a Huge Number of Colours
- Black
- Black and white
- Brindle
- Brindle and white
- Gold
- Gold and white
- Pink and white
- Silver
- Silver and white
- Blue
- Blue and white
- Liver
- Liver and white
- Pink
- Black, gold, and silver
- Black, white, and silver
- White
- Silver, gold, and white
- Black, gold, and white
Shih tzus can even have a black facial masks or black, tan, or white markings.
27. Shih Tzus Have Lengthy Lives
If you would like a canine companion who shall be with you on many adventures, a shih tzu could match the invoice.
They’ve a life expectancy of 10 to 18 years.
Two of my shih tzus lived to be 13.5 years outdated. My rescued shih tzu lived to be about 16.
The oldest recorded shih tzu lived to be 23 years outdated.
28. Their Flat Faces Trigger Them To Be Liable to Sure Issues
Shih tzus are a brachycephalic breed, which implies that their head is each broad and quick, leading to small nostrils, lengthy palates, and a slim trachea.
This will result in brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome, which may end up in extreme respiratory misery.
They’re additionally in danger in extremes of temperature and humidity.
Shih tzus can also have a reverse sneeze, during which he’ll snort and gag to take away mucuous, for a minute or two at most. Though not dangerous, listening to a shih tzu with a reverse sneeze might be scary.
Should you’re a light-weight sleeper, be ready to sleep with ear plugs. Due to their flat muzzles, shih tzus are likely to snore.
My shih tzu China weighed solely 11 kilos. However she appeared like a freight practice coming by means of when she was soundly sleeping.
As a result of their lovely, massive, spherical eyes are very outstanding, shih tzus are liable to eye accidents. So, though shih tzus are sturdy for his or her measurement, take care in enjoying with them.
29. They Are Additionally Susceptible To Different Well being Points To Be Conscious Of
All breeds can have sure well being issues. Due to their lengthy again, quick legs, and flat muzzle, shih tzus are liable to some well being points.
So watch out that your shih tzu doesn’t leap on or off furnishings that’s too excessive. If you would like him to be on the furnishings, train him to make use of stairs or a ramp made for that function.
Just remember to get your shih tzu from a respected breeder or rescue group.
Potential well being points in embrace:
- Hip dysplasia
- Patellar luxation (a slipped kneecap)
- Eye anomalies together with cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, retinal detachment, and corneal dryness and irritation from extreme publicity to the air due to improperly closing eyelids
- Coronary heart points
- Ear infections
- Pores and skin sensitivities
- Bladder stones and infections
- Retained child tooth and gum issues
- Umbilical hernias
- A portosystemic liver shunt, which is a congenital abnormality during which blood vessels enable blood to bypass the liver
- Snuffles, during which the gums swell when a pet is teething at about 4 months outdated. Due to their flat muzzle during which there isn’t a lot room, a shih tzu pet could snort, snuffle, snore loudly, or wheeze throughout this time, and should also have a clear nasal drainage
- Glomerulonephropathy, a kidney illness
- Congenital dyshormonogenic hypothyroidism with goiter
- Prekallikrein deficiency, which is a dysfunction that causes blood to take longer to clot
30. Shih Tzus Can Be Beggars and Placed on Too A lot Weight
Despite the fact that their human baby-like cute face stares up at you once you’re consuming, don’t give in to temptation and share your meal.
Shih tzus can are likely to turn out to be overweight.
31. They Have a tendency To Have Dental Issues
Brachycephalic breeds are likely to have extra dental issues than different breeds.
So common tooth brushing and veterinary care is necessary.
32. Verify Their Eyes Commonly To Keep away from Issues
Due to their outstanding eyes, issues could happen from mud, pollen, humidity, or brushing towards a floor, So examine your shih tzu’s eyes for indicators of redness or irritation.
Be sure that the facial hair in your shih tzu doesn’t rub towards his eyes, which might additionally trigger damage to his eyes.
33. They’re Well-liked
Shih tzus rank twentieth out of 284 breeds based on the AKC.
34. A Nicely-Bred Shih Tzu Isn’t Low-cost
As a result of the breed is so standard, there are various unscrupulous pet mill and again yard breeders promoting the canines at varied costs, each excessive and low.
However a shih tzu from a good breeder can price from $1,500 and up, relying on the place you reside and whether or not the canine is present or pet high quality.
35. They Have a tendency To Eat Poop Extra Than Some Breeds Do
This is named coprophagia. Simply be sure to scrub up any feces in order that this doesn’t turn out to be a behavior.
36. There Are Helpful Assets To Discover a Nice Shih Tzu
It’s possible you’ll resolve to get a shih tzu from a good breed or rescue group.
For rescue details about shih tzus, contact the American Shih Tzu Membership, Shih Tzu Rescue, Inc., or Tzu Zoo Rescue
For breeder referrals, contact the American Shih Tzu Membership or the American Kennel Membership
FAQs
I dwell in an house and want a canine who doesn’t bark typically or want a fenced yard. Would a shih tzu be a sensible choice?
Sure! They’re quiet canines who aren’t extreme barkers. Additionally they don’t require tons of train. A stroll or two and a few play ought to meet their bodily train wants.
You have to be prepared to frequently groom a shih tzu (or rent knowledgeable groomer). However bear in mind it could take longer than some breeds to deal with practice a shih tzu.
I like to journey. Would a shih tzu be a sensible choice?
Sure. Should you get a well-bred shih tzu who is correctly skilled and socialized, a shih tzu could be a nice journey buddy.
Shih tzus are transportable and love everybody and adapt to new environments.
Plus, they’re very bonded to their pet mother and father and like to accompany them on new adventures.
I like canines however don’t love grooming. I’ve solely had solely short-coated breeds. My pal has a shih tzu who I like. Would a shih tzu be a sensible choice?
In all probability not.
They require common–each day–grooming. However when you preserve the canine in a brief pet clip and are prepared to groom him, it could work out.
Ultimate Ideas
Shih tzus are pleasant, spunky, outgoing cute canines. They don’t require a variety of train and are transportable lap canines.
However they’re tough to deal with practice and want each day grooming.
Should you’re in search of a candy, charming canine to accompany you in every single place, a shih tzu could be a nice selection.
Do you’ve got a shih tzu?
In that case, what made you select the breed?
In case you are occupied with getting a shih tzu, did this text assist you to resolve?
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