The Shih Tzu is a small and spellbinding dog that makes and exquisite watch dog. They are beautiful exiguous dogs that commonly get along well with other dogs and other pets. They love older children but should be socialized with them. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.
Approximate Adult Size
Shitzu Dogs
The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Shih Tzu is 8 to 11 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 8 to 15 pounds.
Special condition Considerations
Most dog breeds have clear inherited condition problems linked with that definite breed and the Shih Tzu is no exception. Be on the look out for genetic kidney disease, slipped stifles and teeth problems. Their large eyes can also be injured or irritated. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be critical threats, please touch your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian some times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.
Grooming
The Shih Tzu has a duplicate coat. The inner coat is soft and wooly. The outer coat is long and flowing with some having a exiguous wave. She should be brushed daily. Brushing will help her assert a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats, help you keep a closer eye on her condition and strengthen your emotional bond with her.
Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her expertly groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complex and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you hypothesize an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.
Her toenails may need to be examined for increase and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet.
Life Span
The Shih Tzu can live in the middle of 10 and 14 years with allowable nutrition, healing care and exquisite living conditions.
History
The Shih Tzu come from Tibet where they were used as a house pet. They were first registered by the American Kennel connection in 1969.
Some Registries
American Shih Tzu Club
Ukc United Kennel Club
Nkc National Kennel Club
Ckc Continental Kennel Club
Apri Americas Pet Registry Inc.
Akc American Kennel Club
Fci Federation Cynologique Internationale
Nzkc New Zealand Kennel Club
Kcgb Kennel Club of Great Britain
Ankc Australian National Kennel Club
Acr American Canine Registry
Litter Size
2 to 4 Shih Tzu puppies
Category
Toy
Terms To Describe
Loyal, alert, lively, sturdy, arrogant, friendly, outgoing, happy, affectionate
Special Good Points
Makes a good watch dog.
Good dog for allergy sufferer.
Special Bad Points
They can snore.
Can gain weight fast.
Can be stubborn.
Makes a poor guard dog.
May be difficult to housebreak.
Other Names Known By
Lion Dog, Chrysanthemum Dog
Every dog is an personel so not all things in this information may be precise for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.
Shih Tzu Puppy And Dog facts