Shih Tzu: Character, Health, Feeding, Price, and Care

One of the most popular small dog breeds, the Shih Tzu is a lively and lovable little companion. Originating in Tibet, the Shih Tzu was bred to be a companion dog, which certainly excels in this role. Shih Tzus are known for their perky, happy temperaments and affectionate nature – they love nothing more than being close to their human companions.

This breed is also relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. However, they require regular brushing to prevent their long hair from becoming matted.

Get more information about this cute breed below.

What Is a Shih Tzu?

The name "Shih Tzu" refers to a little lion, but this breed isn't ferocious. This dog is not a hunter; he's a lover instead. The Shih Tzu is one of the most adorable breeds out there. They are playful and happy dogs who love to cuddle with their human companions from morning until night.

The best way to understand Shih Tzu's behaviour is by knowing what they are NOT like. They're not small dogs who want attention all day long; these adorable fur balls will give you some quiet time, then take it when their turn comes around!

They get along great with other animals (even kids) as long as those folks also know how to handle/play nicely with a smaller pup--and if not? Well...you'll just have a hyperactive mess on your hands instead of one happy pet parent :)

What Is Shih Tzu Size?

The average Shih Tzu height is 8-11 inches, and the average weight is 9-16 pounds. They get mature at 9 to 12 months.

Shih Tzu: Average Lifespan

The lifespan of a Shih Tzu is 10-16 years. Considering their small size and generally good health, this is a relatively long life expectancy for a dog.

How to Take Care of Your Shih Tzu's Health?

Shih Tzus are a fairly robust breed and don't tend to suffer from many health issues. However, like all dogs, they could be susceptible to specific health problems, such as:

• Eye problems
• Soft tissue sarcomas
• Hormonal problems
• Eye problems
• Lymphomas
• Breathing problems
• Bone cancer

The Shih Tzu is a small and intelligent dog that can be easily trained. By just following these few simple steps, you will have a happy, healthy pet for years to come:

• Since Shih Tzu's are such a small breed, they can be injured easily by rough play. It is important to teach your children how to handle properly and play with your pet.
• Regular grooming is a must for this breed. Their long hair can become matted and tangled if not brushed daily. Trimming their hair around the eyes is also important to avoid eye irritation.
• Eating the right food is important for all dogs, especially small breeds like the Shih Tzu. Small breeds tend to have higher metabolisms and need food high in calories and nutrients.
• Exercising is critical for every dog, especially tiny breeds like the Shih Tzu. Small dogs have a lot of energy and require regular exercise to burn it off.
• Don't let your Shih Tzu get overweight. This can cause health problems down the road.
• Having your Shih Tzu socialized and trained properly is critical for it to be happy and well-balanced. The breed is clever, but also has a stubborn streak.
• Have your Shih Tzu regular vet check-ups. Small breeds are susceptible to health problems, so catching any issues early on is essential.

What to Feed Your Shih Tzu?

Traditionally, Shish Tzu owners have been recommended to feed their dogs a high-quality dry food diet. This will ensure that they maintain good shapes and immune systems, leading to longer lives.

Puppies require roughly 50-60 grams of food per kilogram of body weight, while adult Shih Tzus need between 28 and 30 grams.

Here are some food variety ideas for your Shih Tzu:

• White chicken meat
• Blueberries
• Fish
• Lamb
• Green beans
• Sweet potato

How Much Does a Shih Tzu Cost?

With so many Shih Tzu puppies being born every day, it's not hard to see why the price of one can vary depending on where they are from. For example, an average imported puppy will cost between $750 -$3K, while a domestically bred pup could fall anywhere in that range but most likely be closer to around 1k-2000 dollars or higher.

Final Thoughts on Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a great breed for those looking for a small, affectionate, and easily trainable dog. They are relatively easy to care for and have a long lifespan. While they do require regular grooming, this is a small price to pay for such a loving companion. If you are considering adding a Shih Tzu to your family, be sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder.