So you and your family have decided that you are ready to bring a Shih Tzu into your home and lives. You have a nice home and plenty of love to give and that is all you need to know when picking a dog, right? Unfortunately, this is not the case, as many different types of dogs have different types of personality. If you select the wrong dog, you may have a situation you did not expect to happen. It is best to know what to expect before selecting a puppy.
Think of it like you are building a blueprint for the perfect dog and compose a list of things that you need your dog to be. Once you have established the type of dog you and your family want, you can compare this to the personality of a Shih Tzu dog and see if you still think that it is the perfect dog for you. For some it will be, but for others it won't. Either way, it is better to know upfront instead of finding out after your dog has been brought home.
Now that you have a better understanding of what type of dog would be the perfect fit into your already busy life, it is time to review the personality characteristics of the Shih Tzu dog. What generally makes this breed a fun one to have is that they are very outgoing and peaceful with other pets and strangers so they can be taken just about anywhere with you. Also, this smaller breed is very sturdy even though they are tiny, with their short legs and long body.
Even with their short legs and long body, the Shih Tzu dog is a sturdy little dog that will carry himself with a proud sense about him. But don't worry that this breed is a snob as they are still very playful and happy, not only with their owners but with strangers and other pets as well. These characteristics often makes the Shih Tzu dog a perfect choice for those who can't get out a lot, but when they do, they want a relaxed and well-behaved dog.
But if you are looking for a breed that will not be prone to a lot of problems, which can require costly vet bills, then this breed may not be for you. The Shih Tzu dog is prone to many things but problems with their breathing are often the most noted issue.
Because of their face structure and upturned nose, the Shih Tzu's have a lot of breathing problems which can unfortunately lead to heatstroke if they are in hot and humid weather for too long.
Their short face and nose that is upturned in structure means that the Shih Tzu dog generally has issues with their breathing which makes them at risk for a heatstroke in hot weather when it is humid.
Their shallow-set, yet large, eyes are at risk to infection and injury. This breed is also known to have some disk problems in their back along with kidney and skin problems so this is something to consider before jumping into owning a Shih Tzu dog.
1.Maintenance of high standards of health. 2.Feeding a scientifically balanced diet. 3.Establishment of a regular program of exercise.
The formality and detail of a system is a matter of personal taste, however, these three areas are of universal importance and must be included whether you are raising a single family pet Shih Tzu or you are maintaining a large kennel of Shih Tzu show dogs.
Raising Shih Tzu Show Dogs
You must employ greater care when conditioning the Shih Tzu show dog. This is true not only because the Shih Tzu represent a larger investment of money, but because the show dog Shih Tzu are forced into situations that are potentially much more damaging to their general health.
Shih Tzu show dogs are constantly on the go being transported from one part of the country to another. Shih Tzu show dogs travel hundreds of miles each week to maintain their show schedule. Such traveling is hard on people and it is hard on Shih Tzu. It disrupts the normal Shih Tzu routine of life. There is breaking of the routine for sleeping and eating. While the Shih Tzu may sleep in the crate as they travel, the situation is still not entirely the same as when the Shih Tzu are at home and sleeping. There are new strange noises that disturb the Shih Tzu's? rest, and the Shih Tzu does not sleep as soundly as he would at home. The Shih Tzu rest is also constantly disturbed during the night with the arrival of each new exhibitor.
A dog's hearing is very much greater than human hearing. It is most likely the Shih Tzu will be disturbed many more times during the traveling than a human on the same trip. All of this can create a nervous strain on the Shih Tzu. The Shih Tzu may simply refuse to eat and have to be force fed. Some Shih Tzu never do make an adequate adjustment and are forced to retire from a show career, just as some humans do not adjust to the busy life of being a Hollywood Movie Star and may turn to alcohol or drugs to help them adjust or not be able to perform at all.
You must consider also that traveling from show to show in a small crate has to be physically exhausting for the Shih Tzu show dog. The motion of the car or the airplane, the noises and the strange fumes all can add to the Shih Tzu's discomfort and does take its toll on their health and well being.
The Shih Tzu show dog has all the above mentioned areas of concern in addition to those general problems that exist for all Shih Tzu ? pet or show. The general conditions of health, diet, and exercise must be watched constantly to prevent serious health problems for the Shih Tzu ? pet or show.
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Both Rebecca Simpson & Connie Limon are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Rebecca Simpson has sinced written about articles on various topics from Pets Puppies for Sale, Prospects and Puppies Dogs. About the author: Rebecca Simpson is an avid lover of the Shih Tzu and has a popular website where you'll discover how to have a happy, healthy and well behaved. Rebecca Simpson's top article generates over 60500 views. to your Favourites.
Connie Limon has sinced written about articles on various topics from Careers and Job Hunting, Dogs and Colon Cleanse. Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Designer dog clothes are offered on the website. Discounts are offered to subscribers. Sign up at:. Connie Limon's top article generates over 135000 views. to your Favourites.