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The Shih Tzu
Overview
The Shih-Tzu is one of the most popular Toy breeds with their long flowing fur, curly tail that sits high on their back and round, dark eyes. Originally bred with a Tibetan Lhasa Apso and Pekingese, the Shih-Tzu was brought over to England in the 1930s and finally recognized as a breed in 1946. Currently, many have this breed as a beautiful show dog or a perfect companion of the family.
Temperament of Shih-Tzus
Shih-Tzus are active, energetic and attentive dogs who love to play and be spoiled. Although sometimes stubborn, Shih-Tzus are intelligent and can be easily trained with patience and dedication along with plenty of rewards and praise. However, this breed would prefer to be the family love sponge, perfectly content with plenty of attention and spoiling. Shih-Tzus are usually social dogs that can make friends easily with other pets and older children. Small children such as toddlers and babies are not good matches for the Shih-Tzu as this breed is used to being the center of attention and have jealous tendencies. Your Shih-Tzu puppy believes they should be the center of your world and may not adjust well to any other position. If you have plenty of time and love to share with a Shih-Tzu, this may be the perfect pup for your household.
Grooming and General Care of Shih-Tzus
The Shih-Tzu does not require much room and is content with daily inside playtime or a romp around the yard. Some sort of daily exercise should always be provided, however, as they can gain weight easily which should be controlled as excessive weight can cause health issues for their small stature.
The double layered coat of Shih-Tzu puppies requires daily brushing to avoid tangles and mats and keep the fur looking shiny and healthy. The coat can also be kept short for easy maintenance. Although the fur is thick, Shih-Tzus shed very little which makes them perfect for those with allergies. The fur around the eyes and ears should be kept short or pulled back in a topknot to allow for proper vision. The eyes and ears should be cleaned regularly to avoid some common health issues with these areas as well as staining around the eyes.
Common Shih-Tzu Health Issues
Like many small breeds, the Shih-Tzu can suffer from Patellar Luxation which occurs when the kneecap slides out of its normal position. This can be an inherited disorder or occur from a jump or other injury to the legs. Because of their fragile joints and bones, Shih-Tzus should always be kept in their healthy weight range to avoid extra pressure on their limbs. Proper feeding, daily exercise and regular checkups at the veterinarian should keep this problem at bay.
Shih-Tzus are also commonly plagued with Cherry Eye which when the gland of the third eyelid prolapses and is then visible. Since the cause of this condition is unknown, there is little that can be done to avoid this condition. Cherry Eye usually happens in the first year of life which makes regular cleaning of the eyes of your Shih-Tzu puppy even more important.
Respiratory problems are also common with Shih-Tzus due to the “smashed-in” shape of their faces. Because of their short noses, loud breathing and snoring are likely. Not all Shih-Tzus will develop serious respiratory problems, however. Keeping a close eye on your Shih-Tzu and being aware of their usual behaviors and dispositions will allow you to notice any abnormalities should they come about.
Shih-Tzu Puppies For Sale
If you are looking to buy a Shih-Tzu puppy, you have found the perfect place! Our site is here to help you pick out a pup that suits your personality, temperament and preferences. The Shih-Tzu puppies we have available have been carefully selected from those bred by professional Shih-Tzu breeders all over the country.
If you are interested in Shih-Tzu puppies for sale, please check out our website or give us a call toll free at 1-866-787-7877.
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