Shih Tzu is extremely popular among the Chinese. In fact, the name Shih Tzu in Chinese means “lion.” The main reason behind its popularity is its association with Buddhism. It is believed that Lord Buddha always kept this puppy with him as it could anytime turn into a lion for protection.
However, these dogs are extremely cute and playful with their family members.
If you are planning to adopt Shih Tzu puppies, scroll through to read more about them.
Characteristics of Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu is one of the most intelligent breeds of dogs and is as cute as a small toy. The average life span of these puppies ranges from 10 – 16 years. These are lightweight toy puppies with a weight ranging between 9 – 16lbs and a cute height of 8 – 11 inches.
You have the option of choosing from two different types of puppies, that is, either long hair or short hair. These puppies have a variety of fur colors white, brown, black, and brindle. The toy puddle has fur with curly soft hair. Their long and silky, and fast-growing hairs are an absolute delight to play with. The look of these puppies becomes more adorable due to their beautiful eye colors ranging from green, brown, and blue.
These puppies love the company of humans and can adapt to any apartment easily. If you own a puppy for the first – time, Shih Tzu is the best choice. These are moderately sensitive; however, they do not get much hurt if they are left alone. They are extremely friendly around kids, family as well as strangers. Due to their double coat, they are more comfortable with cold weather but do not like hot weather at all. They love seeking attention from their owners; otherwise, they get depressed.
Health and Physical Requirements
Shih Tzu generally has moderate health. They are extremely prone to corneal infections. These diseases mainly occur due to improperly closed eyelids, patellar luxation, and hip dysplasia.
They have low exercise needs and low energy levels. However, they are extremely playful and enjoy short walks. They show extremely lower intensity during any game or other activities.
They are extremely sensitive to hot waters or high temperatures. So, you do not need to overheat. They love being indoors and do not take them out daily for a walk.
Training and Grooming Requirements
These toy puppies are not at all difficult to train due to their high intelligence. They have a moderate prey drive and mouthiness potential. They have a low potential and excitement to explore a new place. These puppies would love pleasing you all the time and manage to bring a smile to your face somehow.
At times they might need several training classes to work on their socialising skills with other puppies. Instead of punishing or yelling at them, train them using different rewards. They will find this technique extremely exciting and can easily complete the training. You can easily use several different or innovative ways to train your Tzu and Toy Pomapoo Puppies. However, try to use food at times as rewards since they would love that. You can also include puzzles and games to make the session fun.
They do not need much hair styling because they usually do not have much hair fall. Nonetheless, you will need t to comb their hair daily to untangle them. Do not forget to brush their top knot while brushing their mustache.
Bathing them monthly is imperative to maintain the shine of their coat. You can also give them a hairstyle of your choice that is low-maintenance but equally cute.
Things to consider before Adopting a Shih Tzu
There are certain things you can consider before adopting a Shih Tzu as a pet. This includes:
- These are extremely low-maintenance toy puppies.
- All they want is time and attention from their owner, and they can feel sad otherwise.
- They are extremely heat-sensitive, and hence you must be careful not to take them for a walk under the scorching sun.
- You need to take extra care of them and properly groom them up. This can require extra time for all of these.
- It is, at times, tough to train them as always; you will not have innovative ideas at the back of your mind.
- They are extremely friendly with kids and love playing with them. Nonetheless, they are not that good with extremely younger kids.
- You need to stringently follow their bathing and feeding routine so that they can stay healthy.
Now you must have a clear idea about these puppies and whether to adopt them or not. You can also check out the mini pups for sale by owner at Puppy Heaven in Las Vegas.