Here are all the essential points you must know before buying Shih Tzu dog.

Pros

First, let’s talk about the good sides of this beautiful loving dog. The Shih Tzu is a perfect breed for small spaces. Although they are perfectly content staying wherever you stay, apartments and condos are ideal for them. They don’t shed that often. Most people refer to this breed as a light shedder, and the largest misconception is that Shih Tzus don’t shed at all. Brushing and trimming their coat regularly is important to keep the shedding under control.

They are friendly toward strangers and children. Shih Tzus are family dogs and tend to be affectionate towards everyone, including strangers and kids. They also make great therapy dogs due to their charming personalities. It is important, though, to socialize your Shih Tzu when they are young, as they can become aggressive if not properly socialized. It is also crucial to teach your kids how to properly handle Shih Tzus.

They require minimal exercise. You can entertain them with toys. Regular cardiovascular exercise is very important for both physical and mental health. As a brachycephalic breed, the Shih Tzu requires more care to prevent overheating. Shih Tzus are beautiful dogs with a variety of colors and long coats. They do need a lot of maintenance and care to keep them looking that way.

The Bad

Now let’s talk about the bad aspects of owning a Shih Tzu. They are picky eaters, which gives you the chance to adjust meals exactly to your Shih Tzu’s preferences. They require high maintenance and grooming. To keep your Shih Tzu looking good and in great shape, you’ll need to put in a lot of work. Leaving them alone for too long can lead to destructive habits and behavioral issues such as separation anxiety.

They are prone to overheating. In the summer heat, your Shih Tzu can suffer from overheating because of their breathing issues. They don’t make the best guard dogs.

The Ugly

Now I’ll tell you about the ugly aspects of owning a Shih Tzu. They are difficult to housetrain. Training needs to start at an early age, and consistency is required to ensure you get the best results. They can experience breathing issues. Brachycephalic syndrome, or respiratory distress syndrome, is a condition that affects dogs with short noses like your Shih Tzu. This condition can result in an airway that is so constricted and small that many of these dogs struggle to breathe.

They can have some serious health issues. Problems like hip dysplasia, eye anomalies, and patellar luxation are some of the common problems that can affect this breed. They are a stubborn breed. To deal with this behavior, you need to be a consistent leader, someone who is able to tell them “no.” They are prone to behavioral issues. If you leave your Shih Tzu alone for too long, they can develop destructive and behavioral issues that can affect you.

In summary, while Shih Tzus can be wonderful companions with their friendly and charming nature, they also come with their own set of challenges, such as high maintenance, health issues, and behavioral problems. If you’re considering owning a Shih Tzu, be prepared for both the joys and the difficulties that come with this unique breed.