The Scoop on Shih Tzus

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.

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