Shih Tzu Breed Information
Overview
Shih Tzus are sturdy toy breed dogs that are thought to have originated in Tibet. Shih Tzus are considered a brachycephalic (short-nosed dog with a flat face) breed. Shih Tzus usually has an even temperament and can quickly charm you with their big eyes and smooshy faces.
Shih Tzus make great companion animals due to their outgoing nature. Shih Tzus can also serve as therapy, emotional support, or service dogs if they possess the correct temperament traits and go through adequate training. All of the puppies in my responsible breeding program are brought up on a curriculum and go through temperament testing before going home.
Take it from me, you can never have too many Shih Tzus! Their sweet disposition and outstanding temperament are sure to win you over whether you’re looking for a companion animal or an emotional support dog! If my Shih Tzu breeding program and the Shih Tzu breed sound like a match for your family lifestyle, please contact me today. I’d love to provide you with more information about my Shih Tzu puppies for sale!
Size & Colors
According to the AKC and the Shih Tzu National Breed Club, standard-sized Shih Tzus typically weigh between 9-16 pounds. Imperial Shih Tzu puppies or Teacup Shih Tzu puppies may way less than the breed average. Shih Tzu puppies also come in an assortment of colors. Some of the Shih Tzu coat colors include gold, red, silver, black, cream, white, liver, chocolate and brindle. A Shih Tzu may have a solid coat or the coat may be comprised of more than one color.
A Chocolate & White Parti Shih Tzu puppy
Health Tests
The Shih Tzu is a hearty breed. Currently, the National Breed Club for Shih Tzus recommends no mandatory health tests for the breed. I still take it upon myself to run an Embark genetic panel in order to make responsible breeding decisions.
I also run some blood panels and other health testing on breeding adults on occasion, per recommendations from my trusted veterinarian. All of my health testing is available for future puppy owners to view at any time! Transparency is key in my responsible breeding program.
Inherent Conditions
Shih Tzus are a brachycephalic breed. There are some common non life threatening conditions that are common in the breed.
Stenoic Nares or Pinched Nostrils
Stenoic Nares or pinched nostrils are a condition that is frequently found in Shih Tzus, especially during the teething phase. You may notice a bubbly discharge and your Shih Tzu puppy may even sound nasal. There is no reason to worry as long as the fluid is clear and your puppy is active. The nostrils usually open over time as the puppy matures and teething comes to a halt. Very few cases require surgery. In the rare event that a Shih Tzu with pinched nostrils does need surgery, it is typically done at the same time as the spay/neuter and is a relatively simple and inexpensive procedure.
Reverse Sneezing
Reverse sneezing is another common benign occurrence in the Shih Tzu breed. Your Shih Tzu puppy may seem unable to catch his or her breath from time to time. Your puppy may even honk or snort. I have found that the best way to deal with this harmless condition is to remain calm and simply place your finger over your Shih Tzu puppy’s nose for a few seconds. This usually remedies the problem rather quickly.
Delayed Closure or Umbilical Hernia
A delayed closure or umbilical hernia is another peculiarity familiar to the Shih Tzu breed. In simple terms, a small bubble of fat can be felt near the navel area. A hernia typically develops when the mom tugs too hard on the umbilical cord during delivery. Some umbilical hernias may be hereditary. Smaller hernias often close on their own as the puppy matures. If the umbilical hernia is still present at the time of spay/neuter the veterinarian may recommend a repair. If a hernia needs fixing it is usually done at the same time as spay/neuter. The repair is a relatively inexpensive yet simple fix when done at the same time as sterilization.
Grooming
Shih Tzus require a decent amount of grooming to maintain their beautiful coats. Shih Tzus are a double-coated breed. They have a baby fine undercoat and a coarser outer coat. Shih Tzu puppies are born with just a single inner coat. A Shih Tzu puppy’s double coat usually grows in by the age of one.
The Shih Tzu’s coat doesn’t shed very much. Shih Tzu’s have a luxurious double coat that is relatively straight although a slight wave is common. The Shih Tzu breed does require frequent grooming to prevent their coats from getting matted. The coat may be kept long or you may choose a shorter teddy bear cut. Daily brushing is recommended.
Every once in a while a dog enters your life and changes everything!
Sweet Dreams Little Shih Tzu
Exercise
Shih Tzus don’t require an overly active lifestyle. A short play session in the yard under supervision or a quick walk is often more than enough to meet daily exercise requirements. On the other hand, your Shih Tzu puppy or adult dog for that matter will most certainly appreciate a game of chase of Frisbee.
Furthermore, Shih Tzu puppies often have a lot more energy than adult Shih Tzu dogs. It’s important that they get ample opportunity to expend that energy. In my opinion, a puppy that is worn out is less likely to look for trouble.
Use of a Leash
I suggest that you don’t attach a leash to your Shih Tzu’s collar. The collar should hold identification tags but shouldn’t be used for walking. Purchase a harness for activities that require a leash instead. The Shih Tzu is a brachycephalic breed. Any pressure on the windpipe or trachea can cause the trachea to permanently collapse. Using a dog harness will help prevent this type of injury from taking place.
"A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than you love yourself." -Josh Billings
Unconditional Love
Children
Shih Tzus usually gets along with everyone but can be hurt easily due to their small size. As a result, when your child wants to play with the puppy adult supervision is necessary. Also, It is essential that children are taught in advance how to communicate and handle a small puppy. It will definitely pay off if both the Shih Tzu puppy and the child know how to behave in each other’s company. Over time, through mutual respect, I am certain that the puppy and child will build a lifelong relationship full of love and memories.
