Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus live 10 to 18 years, a wide range reflecting how much care affects outcome. Brachycephalic airway issues cause breathing difficulties, especially in heat. Intervertebral disc disease affects their long back, so limit jumping. Eye conditions including proptosis and dry eye occur given their prominent eyes. Dental crowding is serious in this breed and requires consistent brushing.

Your Shih Tzu needs brushing every day if you keep the coat long to prevent painful matting. Most pet owners keep a shorter puppy cut that needs brushing every two to three days and a groom every six to eight weeks. The topknot needs daily attention to keep hair out of the eyes. Bathe every two to three weeks.

Your Shih Tzu needs 20 to 30 minutes of gentle activity daily. Short walks and indoor play sessions suit them well. Avoid exercise in heat or humidity entirely since their flat face limits airflow and causes overheating quickly. Watch for heavy panting or labored breathing and stop activity immediately if either appears.

Shih Tzus are bright and responsive to positive reinforcement. Keep sessions short and fun since they disengage quickly with repetition. Housetraining takes longer than most breeds, so use a crate and be consistent. Socialize your puppy early with different people and situations. They respond very poorly to any harsh handling.

Feed a quality small breed formula twice daily with carefully measured portions. Shih Tzus gain weight easily and extra weight worsens their breathing problems. Keep treats calorie light and minimal. Brush teeth daily or near daily since periodontal disease is one of the leading health problems in this breed.

The Shih Tzu developed in Tibet and was later refined in China, where Chinese emperors kept them as treasured palace dogs for centuries. The name means lion dog in Mandarin, reflecting the lion imagery of Tibetan Buddhist art that the breed was bred to resemble. The breed nearly went extinct during the Chinese Revolution. A small breeding population that escaped to England formed the foundation of today global population. The AKC recognized the Shih Tzu in 1969.