So you’re considering adding a Shih Tzu to your family? Here is a snapshot to help you determine if it’s the
right breed for your lifestyle.
· The Shih Tzu is a friendly and energetic breed of dog. They have a sturdy build covered with a lot of soft fur.
· They need early socialization and persistent obedience training to become a positive family member.
· The breed temperament is lovable and outgoing; vocal toward strangers they can make good watch dogs.
· Bred as a companion dog for Chinese royalty they like to be with their family and are good with mature children.
· Although a toy breed they still require daily exercise. Ideally they should have a fenced yard and be taken for regular leashed walks to release their energy. When exercising avoid going out in warm temperatures.
·
Shih Tzus do well with apartment living.
·
They are a light
shedder but require daily grooming of
their long soft coat. Some owners choose to trim the coat to avoid daily
grooming. Ears and eyes need to be
cleaned daily to avoid infections.
·
This
breed’s average life span is 12 to 14 years of age. Responsible breeders
screen their dogs for orthopedic and genetic diseases before breeding
them. Genetic defects found in
some dogs of this breed include: patellar luxation, ear infections and dry
eye.
Click here for more
information about Shih Tzus.
Comments