Shih Tzu
Everything you need to know about Shih Tzus
Shih Tzus are small dogs with long hair and a beard and whiskers. Standard Shih Tzu colours include black, white, grey and brown.
There’s lots of doggy behaviour that comes naturally to all breeds of dog, including Shih Tzus, from digging and chasing to searching and retrieving.
Thinking about giving a Shih Tzu or Shih Tzu Cross a forever home? Here are some Shih Tzu facts that might help you decide.
Caring for Shih Tzus
Every dog is different with their own personality and needs. Here are some areas to think about when taking care of a Shih Tzu.
Health issues
Before you give any type of Shih Tzu a home, it’s important to know about possible health issues. Remember, not every dog will suffer them but it’s good to be prepared.
To find out more about potential health is...
How much food does a Shih Tzu need?
The amount of food a Shih Tzu needs depends on their:
- age
- size
- activity levels
- fitness
- weight.
You can use the information on dog food packets as a guide, t...
How much exercise does a Shih Tzu need?
Shih Tzus usually need daily walks, but they might not manage tough exercise like long walks or mountain hikes. They'll need plenty of time and opportunity to explore, burn energy, and play. Like all dogs, they w...
How much grooming does a Shih Tzu need?
As they have long hair, your Shih Tzu will typically need brushing every day. You can also choose to have a Shih Tzu’s hair clipped. A professional groomer can do this every 6 to 8 weeks.
To help your dog feel c...
What size crate do you need for a Shih Tzu?
When inside their crate, your dog should have plenty of space to:
- sit and stand up at their full height
- turn around without touching the sides
- lie down fully stretched out&...
Shih Tzu behaviour and training
Even if you think you know about Shih Tzu types, it’s important to remember that every dog has their own personality.
What’s the temperament of a Shih Tzu?
Just like you, every dog is an individual with their own personality and prior experiences. So every Shih Tzu temperament is different. As dogs grow from puppies, they learn all about the world. They develop their own...
Are Shih Tzus easy to train?
You can teach any breed of dog new tricks! It’s all about positive learning. Find out what your dog loves so you can use this to reward them after a success. Whether it’s treats, toys or lots of praise, training with ...
Are Shih Tzus good with children?
Every dog has their own unique personality that has been shaped by their own experiences of the world. They’ll have their own likes and dislikes and will respond to situations in different ways. However, there are som...
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