Shih Tzu dogs are considered to be a toy breed. Typically, 3-5 puppies are born. Their lifespan is up to 18 years. They come in a wide range of colors. The most common colors are black, brown, and white with dark spots. They shed lightly. Shih Tzus are small in size.
This is a Chinese dog native to Tibet. The Shih Tzu appeared in Europe in 1930, brought there by the Norwegian ambassador. The Shih Tzu Club was first formed in England in 1933.
Appearance of the Shih Tzu breed
The Shih Tzu's body is covered with fairly long, thick fur that falls onto the animal's muzzle. The hairs are directed sideways around the muzzle, which is why her head looks like a beautiful chrysanthemum.
This breed has a short muzzle, round, very large, dark eyes, and wide-set. The nose is black and large. The Shih Tzu's legs are fairly short, and its tail is long and always carried slightly curved.
The Shih Tzu's ears are set high on the top of the head. The fur hangs down almost to the floor, even covering the paws. This fur constantly gets into the dog's eyes, causing various eye problems. Therefore, it is recommended to tie the ears into a ponytail on top of the head.
Animal character
A dog of this breed is a faithful companion of its owner, who has an unusual character.
A Shih Tzu doesn't choose just one owner among its household members. She treats all family members equally. She will follow anyone wherever they go, as she dislikes being alone. She can spend hours playing with or simply chasing her owner. Shih Tzus are considered quiet pets. However, when left alone, they begin to cry and whine.
Shih Tzus are a dog breed ideal for single people and older adults. Throughout their lives, they show more interest and affection for people than for their own kind.
Shih Tzu puppies love to play with children, accepting them as their own kind. This is dangerous; the child could be injured. Therefore, an adult should always be present when a dog interacts with a child.
This breed has a very compact build and can even move heavy objects, but they are not suitable for guarding due to their affectionate nature and small size. They are best suited for indoor living, without the benefit of outdoor exercise.
The animal can live in a city apartment. It would also be happy in a country house. However, it should not live in an outdoor dog house, as it requires constant attention.
There are a lot of puppies it's not easy to toilet trainYou need to wait patiently until he gets used to using the litter box. Until then, don't allow him to run around the house without adult supervision.
Animal care
It's recommended to wash your pet with gels and conditioners designed for long-haired dogs. You can also use baby shampoos.
In addition to washing your dog, you also need to:
- comb the wool;
- clean ears.
The fur on the belly and under the arms should also be combed with a special comb. The ears should be cleaned of grease buildup weekly with a cotton swab and pluck hairs from the auricleThis will protect the ears from infections. Your veterinarian can recommend an ear care solution.
In addition to hygienic care, this breed requires hygienic trimming of the pubic area and between the paw pads. Their nails should also be trimmed regularly as needed.
Your Shih Tzu's teeth should be brushed weekly, as this breed is prone to dental problems. Shih Tzu nutrition: The dog requires high-quality dry food (1 cup of food per day). However, the specific amount depends on the pet's activity level. Active dogs require significantly more food than calmer ones.
The calorie content of the food is also important. The more nutritious it is, the less the dog will eat. Choosing the right food also has a positive effect on the structure of the Shih Tzu's coat.
If your pet has started to noticeably gain weight, then the volume of food should be reducedIf weight is decreasing, increase food intake.
To determine if your dog is underweight, place your palms on its back and wrap your fingers around its sides. If the dog is underweight, you'll be able to feel its ribs. If you can't feel any ribs at all, the Shih Tzu is overweight.
Training
Dogs are very difficult to train. But they quickly and clearly learn that they will receive a treat for following their owner's command. Therefore, don't skimp on treats.
It's important to train your pet as early as possible. Lessons shouldn't be long, otherwise the animal's interest will fade. A training course usually lasts no more than six monthsIt is a very good idea to entrust your puppy to a professional trainer for training.
Diseases
Dogs of this breed suffer from various diseases, but they are especially prone to the following ailments:
- Abscess.
- Disease of the anal glands.
- Heart disease.
- Dental problems.
- Liver disease.
- Deafness.
- Constipation.
Fungus.- Diseases of the spine.
- Foreign bodies stuck in the mouth.
- Coprophagia (eating one's own feces).
- Baldness.
- Insufficient salivation.
- Poisoning.
- Diarrhea.
- Dandruff.
- Inguinal hernia.
- Eye diseases.
- Kennel cough.
- Nausea when traveling.
- Heat stroke.
- Scabies.
- Ear infections.
Fungus.You need to walk your dog regularly. for an examination by a veterinary specialist to solve animal health problems.
Price of Shih Tzu puppies
Several factors influence the price of an animal. One of them is the presence or absence of a puppy card (document). The price of a dog without papers ranges from 6,000 to 13,000 rubles. Buyers should understand that they will not be able to produce good offspring.
The price is also affected by the presence of certain titles of the animal's parents. In this case, its price may reach 40 thousandIf at least one parent is imported from abroad and holds the Champion title, the price for such a puppy will be around 150,000 rubles. A pedigree, all documents, and vaccinations will be provided. This animal will be eligible for all shows.
To be completely sure that the puppy is a full-fledged member of the Shih Tzu breed, you should purchase it only from an official nursery.
