11 Best Things About Owning a Shih-Tzu

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Written By Jamie Martin
 

Things To Love…

 

1. This breed excels in small home living situations.

Shih Tzus are perfect for people who live in apartments or condominiums where small pets are allowed. Shih Tzus do not need a great amount of space or outdoor exercise.

2. Is less yappy than many toy breeds.

They are typically quiet when you are with them, especially if they get lots of attention every day. You won’t hear the constant barking from them, even if you are away from home because of work or you’re running errands. Some dogs can develop social anxiety if they are left alone consistently, so make sure there is enough time to cuddle and play with your pup before bringing a new dog home.

If you are concerned about bringing home a small dog that is “yappy,” then a Shih Tzu is an excellent choice to consider. They are typically quieter and more full-throated then the other toy breeds that are popular today.

3. These dogs provide excellent companionship.

Almost every family situation allows for the introduction of a Shih Tzu to the fold. These dogs are essentially companion animals, helping to provide friendship and love to those who need it the most. Even if someone is living in a stressful situation, this breed can help to provide more comfort and peace. That’s why you will often see these pups living with seniors, older couples, and in nursing homes or assisted living facilities. Younger adults and families with older kids love having this breed around as well.

4. This breed doesn’t need a lot of outdoor exercise.

The size of the Shih Tzu makes this dog the perfect option for people who aren’t or can’t be active each day. They don’t need a lot of outdoor exercise because of their size. If you have a porch or balcony, that could be enough to keep them healthy. A few trips to the grass to go potty (or the use of an indoor device) can help you to manage their needs rather effectively. You’ll want to have a variety of toys available for them to play with inside to keep them mentally engaged, but that is typically the extent of what you need to do.

5. Shih Tzus are sturdy and strong for their size.

Shih Tzus don’t usually get into a lot of trouble compared to other breeds. They are very eager to please, grateful to have a home that they can call their own. Even when there is the urge to be slow in obeying a command, you’ll find that most individuals are easy to forgive because of the unconditional love that they offer so freely. They tend to be aristocratic in appearance and demeanor, with definite preferences and things they don’t like. You’ll find them to be a sturdy breed that is surprisingly strong when looking at their overall size.

6. This breed is generally peaceful with other pets

There are Shih Tzus who like to think that they are in charge. It is the reason why they tend to be as stubborn as they are at times. You’ll also find that this desire to be the “alpha” in your family back doesn’t interfere with their desire for a peaceful experience. This breed usually minds its own business instead of trying to confront other pets that might be four times its size. Even if you have cats around, your pup will prefer spending time with you or running around with everyone else over picking a fight or creating a commotion.

7. There is less shedding with a Shih Tzu in some circumstances

If you don’t like the idea of having a dog shedding profusely at home, then trimming the long coat of a Shih Tzu will help you to manage the situation. This breed isn’t a good choice for someone with dog allergies, but these toy-sized pups do shed a lot less than most other breeds. This advantage is partly due to their size, but you can also control how much of their coat they lose throughout the week with regular brushing and trimming work. You’ll still want to purchase one of those sticky rollers for your clothing though since their fur can go everywhere.

8. The Shih Tzu is usually polite with strangers.

Shih Tzus are not the best guard dogs in the world. They’ll alert you to the presence of a stranger, but it is usually with playful barking and tail-wagging delight. Even if you haven’t completely socialized your dog, you’ll find that this breed tends to be at least polite with the strangers that you’ll meet throughout each day. Many individuals are downright friendly, gratefully accepting a gentle scratch of the head in return for some happy smiles and some tail wiggling.

9. Shih Tzus adapt easily to their new homes.

Shih Tzus love whoever wants to take care of them. They will quickly blend into the routine of your home without much effort. Although their size can make them a challenge to manage if there are large pets or small children in the home, you’ll find that they can adjust pretty easily to whatever it is you need them to do. The only real exception to this advantage is their potty training habits, and even that is easy enough to manage with some treats, patience, and an extra helping of persistence.

10. Not a prey-driven puppy

Shih Tzu is not one of those puppies to always have high prey drives. Because that becomes challenging to care for them too. If you take your Shih Tzu puppy on a walk, it can be peaceful as it shall not run after any prey.

11. Shih Tzu is highly adaptable with a long life span

It is great to have a pet if they are adaptable and high in energy level. With you, Shih Tzu can adapt to atmospheric as well social changes. The only demand is a little bit of care and love, and then your Shih Tzu puppy is ready to go with you!

An hour with Shih Tzu after getting back from work lifts up the mood for the rest of the day. So what are you waiting for when you can find one cute little pup for yourself.

They are Hypo-Allergenic.

They are Tolerant & Flexible dogs.

Is small but sturdy and strong. (While shuld be treated with care, is less fragile than other toy breeds.)

 
 
Jamie Martin
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