by Mitch Endick
The Shih Tzu is a small and lively dog that makes and excellent watch dog. They are beautiful little dogs that generally get along well with other dogs and other pets. They love older children but should be socialized with them. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.
*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Shih Tzu is 8 to 11 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 8 to 15 pounds.
*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Shih Tzu is no exception. Be on the look out for genetic kidney disease, slipped stifles and teeth problems. Their large eyes can also be injured or irritated. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.
*Grooming. The Shih Tzu has a double coat. The inner coat is soft and wooly. The outer coat is long and flowing with some having a slight wave. She should be brushed daily. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats, help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.
Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.
Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet.
*Life Span. The Shih Tzu can live between 10 and 14 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
*History. The Shih Tzu come from Tibet where they were used as a family pet. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1969.
Some Registries: *American Shih Tzu Club *UKC United Kennel Club *NKC National Kennel Club *CKC Continental Kennel Club *APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc. *AKC American Kennel Club *FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale *NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club *KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain *ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club *ACR = American Canine Registry
Litter Size: 2 to 4 Shih Tzu puppies
Category: Toy
Terms To Describe: Loyal, alert, lively, sturdy, arrogant, friendly, outgoing, happy, affectionate
*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS Makes a good watch dog. Good dog for allergy sufferer.
*SPECIAL BAD POINTS They can snore. Can gain weight fast. Can be stubborn. Makes a poor guard dog. May be difficult to housebreak.
*Other Names Known By: Lion Dog, Chrysanthemum Dog,
*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.
" Gerber " is my dream shih tzu.He is Gabble's son. ( you can view Gabble's profile in my website : www.blackberry-shihtzu.com 
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