The Shih Tzu dog has a small and incredibly adorable appearance. This is a breed of dog originating from China that many people choose as a companion pet.
Let’s learn about this dog breed with DailyPets.net!
Learn about the Shih Tzu dog breed
The origin of the Shih Tzu dog
The Shih Tzu dog originated in Tibet, China, appeared about 10,000 years ago, and existed before the Tibetan Mastiff.
Since ancient times, Shih Tzu is a symbol of prosperity and peace, so they are considered the mascots of the Chinese royal family. In 1861, Shih Tzu was brought to England by a queen and cared for like princes and princesses. Later, Shih Tzu was widely spread to many countries in Europe.
Shih Tzu dog appearance characteristics
Shih Tzu is about 10-20 cm tall and weighs about 3-8kg. Shih Tzu can take about 10 months to mature with adequate nutrition.
Shih Tzu has a body length slightly higher than height sturdy body. They have round heads. The muzzle is slightly short, with an undulating bite mark. Big ears hanging down the sides. Their eyes are round, slightly convex. The upturned nose and small mouth are adorable.
The Shih Tzu is covered with a long, smooth, straight coat that requires frequent trimming or tying up for styling. Shih Tzu’s fur has a variety of colors, such as yellow, cream, white, yellow, brown, and black.
Shih Tzu is used to living in cold climates, so it is quite difficult to raise in countries with tropical climates.
Shih Tzu dog personality traits
The Shih Tzu is a friendly, cheerful, and cuddly dog. However, they are also quite shy, so that they will be wary of strangers.
Shih Tzu does not need exercise, so that it will be quite suitable for small apartments. You should also prepare more toys for them to play with because they are also quite mischievous so they may bite and tear things in your house.
Because the ancestors had an aristocratic lifestyle, you need to train the Shih Tzu dogs from a young age so they are not stubborn and arrogant.
You should spend time each day petting and playing with Shih Tzu; if you have time, take them out for a walk so they don’t feel lonely and lonely.
How to take care of a Shih Tzu dog
Shih Tzu dog food
Every day you should feed your Shih Tzu dog 3-4 meals and should set up a fixed meal time of the day so that they can control the amount of food the dog eats into the body each day. Shih Tzu is very fond of pate and will quickly become obese if they are given too much food.
For Shih Tzu to always have enough energy, it is recommended to provide foods rich in protein and fat, such as beef, chicken, eggs, … In addition, you should give Shih Tzu rice, porridge, or other cereals. to provide starch for muscle growth. And don’t forget to add vitamins from vegetables.
You can use pet food. You should limit giving Shih Tzu human food because it will affect the baby’s intestines.
Shih Tzu dog care and hygiene
The Shih Tzu dog has a long and fast-growing coat, so you need to brush it at least once a day for the Shih Tzu to have a smooth coat.
You should bathe the Shih Tzu regularly, on average, once a week with dog shampoos or when they have just returned from playing in a dirty place.
You should clean your Shih Tzu’s ears and eyes weekly with a dog eye care product.
You should trim their nails every quarter.
Common Shih Tzu dog health problems
The Shih Tzu dog has an average lifespan of about 15 years. This is a relatively easy dog to keep and rarely gets seriously ill.
Some common minor ailments in Shih Tzu include ear infections, cataracts, respiratory infections, kneecap dislocations, etc.
Notes when taking care of Shih Tzu dogs
Every day you should spend time playing with the children or taking them for a walk so they do not get lonely at home for too long. Moreover, taking the Shih Tzu outside will also help them become bolder.
You should be vaccinated and dewormed fully regularly. Don’t forget to check your pet’s vet every 6 or 12 months.
Shih Tzu dogs should only be purchased at reputable addresses, without genetic problems, and only brought home when vaccinated with 2 doses of vaccines.
Note when buying Shih Tzu dogs
When young, the Shih Tzu dog will be very similar to purebred Shih Tzu, so it is easy to buy the wrong Shih Tzu crossbreed dog if you do not have experience. Purebred Shih Tzu coats will be longer, straighter, and smoother than hybrids when about 3 months old.
You should only buy in reputable places; do not buy online because scamming is easy. It is best to go to large breeders or pet shops with reputable brands to buy.
You should carefully identify the characteristics, shape, and health of the Shih Tzu dog before buying and consult the price.
