Monday, June 29, 2009

DOG FAQ - I have heard that Shih-Tzu have breathing problems. Is this true?

Some Shih-Tzu will wheeze and snore because of the shape and size of the nose and head. However, the Shih-Tzu also has some problems with the eyes because of the shape of the head and the fact that the eyes are very prominent. Talk with your veterinarian about breathing problems and eye problems with the Shih-Tzu.

Shih Tzu - Dog Lover

Sunday, June 21, 2009

TRAINING

The Shih Tzu may be difficult to housetrain. The crate method works best. Although they are eager to please, and quick to learn, Shih Tzu stubborn streak requires persistence and consistency. They do not respond to harshness or punishment. The Shih Tzu does very well in obedience training provided it is low-key and motivational.

Shih Tzu - Dog Lover

Friday, June 19, 2009

FEEDING

Feeding your Shih Tzu at scheduled mealtimes is the best way to control how much Shih Tzu eats, resulting in better weight control and allowing you to monitor their health. (Lack of appetite is often the first sign of illness.) Free feeding, a method in which food is left out all day, can wreak havoc on the digestive system and lead to obesity.

The best feeding schedule for your shih tzu depends on his age and lifestyle. While your vet or breeder can best advise you as to what kind of feeding plan is appropriate for your shih tzu’s particular life stage, the chart below provides a general outline.

Life stage feeding :

Puppies (under 4 months) feed 3 small meals per day

Adolescents (4–12 months) feed 2 meals per day

Active adults (1–12 years) feed 2 meals per day

Adult formula Seniors (12+ years) feed 1–2 meals per day

Rather than feed your shih tzu each time he begs for food, stick to regular meals and an occasional treat. If you’re serving commercial food, the package directions may not suit your individual dog, so talk to your vet or breeder. If you’re serving noncommercial food, consult your vet.

Shih Tzu - Dog Lover

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

HEALTH INFORMATION

Small-size dogs, or Toy dogs, suffer breed specific problems. The Shih Tzu is not an exception. There are several congenital diseases (dogs are born with these diseases) that might present serious health risks in Shih Tzu are : patellar luxation, back problems and eye abnormalities. If the timely and correct preventive care is provided and if the breeding stock is free from genetic defects, then you have a healthy Shih Tzu.

Shih Tzu - Dog Lover

Monday, June 15, 2009

TEMPERAMENT

The Shih Tzu is first and foremost a companion. Shih Tzu loves nothing more than being indoors with their family. Temperament of this breed gets along very well with older children and other pets. Shih Tzu are outgoing and self-assured, keen and alert. Shih Tzu makes excellent watchdogs. They do not do well being separated from their owners and may become destructive if left alone for extended periods of time. Shih Tzu is docile and quiet, but they also love to play. The Shih Tzu is spunky and can be obstinate at times. They expect to be treated as royalty and are easily spoiled.
Shih Tzu - Dog Lover

Sunday, June 7, 2009

GROOMING

The Shih Tzu is a longhaired dog. Actually, it has two coats, one outer coat that has long straight hair, and the short and wooly. The hair on it head is usually tied up in a tight knot over the head. Do Not Get a Shih Tzu If You Cannot Groom It Daily

Many people decide that the Shih Tzu is the right dog for them because they find it so beautiful. It is not a good idea to decide you want a Shih Tzu after you see it in a dog show. Here, the best specimens are paraded and what you see though looks easy and carefree, is the result of a lot of work and perseverance.

Shih Tzu grooming has to be done on a regular basis. Here ‘regular basis’ means at least every alternate day. You will need to have the long hair combed every other day if not every day; otherwise, the hair will knot and/or mat and then become a good home for a number of parasites. If the parasites are left growing on its skin for a long time, then the Shih Tzu will develop skin lesions and other diseases – besides becoming a very miserable dog. Hence, the minimum Shih Tzu care necessitates that it is groomed every day – and since it lives for about 15 to18 years, you will need to decide whether you can do this every day (or alternate day) for the next 15 years before saying ‘yes’ to this breed as your pet.

Often, people buy this type of dog on a whim or impulse, and end up giving it up when they realize that they are not able to cope with the basic Shih Tzu care requirements. It should definitely not come to this – hence, you should be careful that you understand what Shih Tzu care and grooming involves before taking in this dog variety.
What can be a put-off for some it can be a great attraction for others - many people love the need to groom these dogs every day. These varieties make great pets for senior people specifically because they demand so much attention which make the elder people feel good because they are wanted and because these dogs love to be loved. The daily grooming is just another way to fill the day and bond with the Shih Tzu.

In case you love the breed and you still think that, the Shih Tzu grooming is a handful for you, you can give it the Shih Tzu haircut, as a last resort. Use the services of a qualified Shih Tzu grooming professional for this purpose so the beauty of the dog is not compromised. Regardless of whether you choose to have the hair long or short, you will have to learn about what you need to groom your Shih Tzu.

Shih Tzu - Dog Lover