What You Need to Know About the Shih Tzu Breed
Before you adopt a Shih Tzu, please make sure you know this breed. Shih Tzu have many wonderful traits, but this breed also has some traits that can be challenging to new dog owners.
- The Shih Tzu is a high maintenance breed and requires frequent and regular grooming. This means a trip to the groomer about every 6 weeks at an average cost of $40 per session. If this is not in your budget, this may not be the right breed for you.
- The Shih Tzu does not generally do well if left alone for long periods of time. They were bred to be pets and need human companionship. If the Shih Tzu is going to be alone without another dog for more than 6 hours at a time, we suggest that you get a pair of Shih Tzus so the Shih Tzu does not develop behavior problems from being left alone too much.
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The Shih Tzu is very susceptible to temperature extremes and must be protected from both extreme heat and cold. They can easily have heatstroke if left in a car or left out too long in the hot weather.
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The Shih Tzu is susceptible to ear infections and eye damage. The ears must be properly cared for to prevent infections that could result in deafness and you must watch for dangers to the eyes as the short muzzle and nose on the Shih Tzu do not provide it with a natural protection. A Shih Tzu is a very loving and loyal dog that needs attention and affection. They will want to be with the family, wherever that may be. A Shih Tzu is not suitable as an "outdoor" dog.
