The Shih Tzu is a small, affectionate dog known for its aggressive personality. Shih Tzus have a long lifespan, usually up to 16 years old. Shih Tzus have nice coats and long double coats, which mean these dogs, require a lot of grooming and maintenance. A well-trained Shih Tzu is suitable for any family, although this breed can be stubborn and requires an experienced owner.

Shih Tzu appearance

These dogs have floppy ears and a long, furry tail that curls over their backs. The Shih Tzu’s coat is long and straight and can easily reach the floor. This makes the Shih Tzu prone to tangling and matting. These dogs also have the well-known “squashed face” found in other breeds such as Lhasa Apsos, Bulldogs, and Pugs, which can cause some dogs to have trouble breathing.

Height and weight

Shih Tzus are small dogs. They typically grow to 11 inches and weigh up to 16.5 pounds. There is not much difference between male and female Shih Tzus. Like many other types of puppies, Shih Tzus are often overfed and under exercised. While Shih Tzus don’t need a lot of exercise — at least compared to other dogs — they do need a balanced diet. Some owners skip the workout, thinking their puppy doesn’t need much movement. This can lead to overweight dogs and all associated health problems. Shih Tzu puppies are small, weighing between 1.25 pounds and 4 pounds by eight weeks of age.

Coat

Shih Tzu’s fur will continue to grow, and if kept for a long time, it will require daily brushing. Many homeowners choose to cut their Shih Tzu coats short for easier maintenance. However, Shih Tzus still need daily brushing, regardless of coat length. Shih Tzus also require regular grooming, such as clipping their nails and cleaning their teeth. Shih Tzus require regular trimming, monthly nail trimming and regular bathing. The Shih Tzu’s “bangs” hair is curled forward above the eyes, making it difficult for the dog to see and irritating the Shih Tzu’s eyes. Some dog owners tie the Shih Tzu’s bangs in a bun to remove hair from the eyes.

Allergy Information

They don’t shed and any loose hair is usually trapped in the dog’s coat. However, it is still possible to have an allergic reaction to a Shih Tzu. Dog dander and saliva can cause reactions in some people and may trigger allergies during dog grooming.

Origin of Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is an ancient dog breed that originated in Asia and is highly valued by members of the Chinese royal family. The Shih Tzu was originally a cross between the Pekingese and the Lhasa apso, dating back to the 14th century. These dogs are so highly valued by their owners that they are not traded or sold, but given as valuable, meaningful gifts. The Shih Tzu was introduced to Europe in the 1930s. Shih Tzus were bred as pet dogs and companion dogs. The Kennel Club officially recognized these dogs on May 7, 1940, and in 1969 by the American Kennel Club.

Shih Tzu’s character and temperament

Shih Tzus have their own ideas for checking shih tzu puppies for sale near me simply click on this link. They are puppies who enjoy love, attention and care. Most Shih Tzus will crawl onto your lap as long as you let them sit there. If Shih Tzus are not properly trained, they can quickly become spoiled, disobedient and short-tempered. These dogs have stubborn personalities and are very intelligent. The well-trained Shih Tzu is affectionate, friendly, and great with children and other pets.

Food needs

A Shih Tzu has only a small belly and needs 1-1.5 cups of dry food a day. Like most dogs, Shih Tzus are greedy and will try to convince you that you are not feeding them. This can be dangerous, and many pug owners fall into the trap of overfeeding and under exercising. If your Shih Tzu is exercising more than the recommended amount, you can feed your dog more food than the average Shih Tzu should eat. However, if the dog is underweight, it should be fed less until it is healthy. Shih Tzus should eat one ounce of food per pound of body weight, while adults should eat half an ounce per pound of body weight. Use this rule to figure out how much Shih Tzu you should feed as you age.

How to Groom a Shih Tzu

Grooming a Shih Tzu is a time-consuming job. A professional dog groomer is the best option, but groomers can be expensive. If you have the right tools, enough time, and enough patience, you can groom your dog at home.  Start by brushing your dog thoroughly. Shih Tzus need regular brushing every day, or at least every other day. If you don’t brush your Shih Tzu, their fur will get dirty and need to be shaved. Use cotton balls to remove mucus and debris around the dog’s eyes, and use ear drops or ear wipes to clean the inside of Shih Tzu’s floppy ears.