Shih Tzus are very popular dogs and most dog lovers always want to know the pros and cons of Shih Tzu which is exactly what this post is all about.
In this post, we will outline and discuss all the common pros and cons of owning a Shih Tzu you should know before getting one.
Pros And Cons Of Shih Tzu
Let’s now look into the cons of owning a Shih Tzu before talking about the pros of owning a Shih Tzu.
Here are some of the most prevalent reasons Shih Tzus bark as a way of expressing themselves:
1. Shih Tzu requires daily hair combing
The Shih Tzu dog is known for having long hair that has to be brushed on a regular basis to avoid unnecessary tangles and matting.
If you don’t brush your dog on a regular basis, their coat may get matted, which can be unpleasant or cause skin problems if left untreated for an extended period of time.
Even if you brush your Shih Tzu every day, you’ll have to take him to the groomer on a regular basis, and the expense of all that grooming may rapidly mount up.
Shih Tzu would require shaving from time to time to keep them healthy and happy, which would also require a professional groomer with extra cost.
2. Shih Tzus are prone to breathing problems
Shih Tzus have a brachycephalic muzzle nose which makes breathing difficult for them.
Keeping this in mind, we may help them avoid acquiring this common condition by feeding them smaller meals, as overeating exacerbates their respiratory problems in the majority of cases.
Do not take Shih Tzu for long walks; avoiding stressful activities is necessary for achieving breathing-related goals.
Shih Tzu is prone to heat exhaustion and can not be involved long time activities to avoid unnecessary health challenges like breathing difficulties.
3. Shih Tzus are picky eaters
One of the most significant disadvantages of Shih Tzu is that they might be fussy eaters due to their sensitive stomachs.
Shih Tzus have a delicate stomach and might be picky about the food they consume.
Always talk with your veterinarian before purchasing any sort of food for your Shih Tzu, and if something is helping, keep with it until it stops walking.
4. Shih Tzus are prone to overheating in summer
Shih Tzus are not the finest dogs to run around within the heat, since their short snout makes it difficult for them to get adequate air.
They overheat in the summer because they don’t breathe as well as other dog breeds.
So, keep a close eye on them this summer and don’t let them play too much since they can soon overheat.
Keep them hydrated with water and fruits, as well as ice cubes, and don’t take them on long walks in the heat.
5. Shih Tzus are tough to house train
Shih Tzus are comparable to most other little dog breeds when it comes to housebreaking.
It might be tough to bring them to the point where they feel the need to go to the toilet while still having enough time to get them on the grass.
This breed is similarly stubborn in its behavior, but if you are persistent in your training methods, you will eventually succeed.
If you’re used to potting training other dogs, be prepared for this technique to take longer than planned.
6. Shih Tzus are prone to separation anxiety
If you are a busy person who travels a lot from day to day, Shih Tzus are not the dog for you.
Shih Tzus, unlike many other breeds, rely heavily on their owners for everything, whether they are at home or not.
Shih Tzus want the company of their owners, and if you are not available to them, they may develop unnecessary Shih Tzu behavior issues.
If you leave your Shih Tzu alone for a lengthy amount of time, he or she may develop separation anxiety, so invest in a carrier and have it with you at all times.
7. Shih Tzus are prone to some behavior problems
Shih Tzus are a popular and charming tiny breed of dog, but they have a few behavioral issues, including begging, difficulties housebreaking, leaping on humans, separation anxiety, excessive barking, destructive chewing, biting, and nipping.
Shih Tzus are change-averse and seek constancy in their lives. This means you should start educating your Shih Tzu as soon as possible so that it becomes second nature later.
8. Shih Tzu are prone to digging
Shih Tzus dig for a variety of reasons, including separation anxiety, play aggression, a lot of energy, loneliness, wanting to get away, and seeking a cool location to relax.
You must ascertain the cause of your Shih Tzu’s digging and resolve the issue as quickly as feasible.
The best strategy is to never leave your Shih Tzu outside for a lengthy amount of time and to keep your Shih Tzu active at all times.
Dogs have a natural inclination to dig for a variety of reasons, none of which involve being cruel.
9. Shih Tzus are prone to crying and pacing
Shih Tzus crying and pacing can be caused by emotional stress, loneliness, boredom, pain, hunger, a need for love, or tension, separation anxiety, a desire for attention from their owners, or an allergic reaction.
Because Shih Tzus were raised to be close to their owners at all times, there must be a reason for all of the crying that the owner is oblivious to.
Shih Tzus’ eyes protrude when they are angry or upset, as is well known. They are also renowned for being stubborn and barky at times.
This breed has been known to weep or scream when left alone for a lengthy amount of time.
10. Shih Tzus are easily stressed and frightened
When your Shih Tzu is stressed and frightened, it is usually a reaction to something particular that will subside after the stressor is removed.
Anxiety, on the other hand, is a long-lasting emotion that does not go away even after it is relieved.
If the problems in your Shih Tzu’s life aren’t resolved, they might turn into a significant long-term illness.
Let’s now talk about the pros of owning a Shih Tzu.
11. Shih Tzus are very sociable
If you’re looking for a dog that can rapidly adjust to different people’s lives or help you make new friends, Shih Tzus are a wonderful choice.
Excursions are a favorite pastime of Shih Tzus. The only drawback to having a Shih Tzu around is that they have a hard time regulating their nose and will sniff a lot.
Shih Tzus adore going to parks and leisure places, so if you’re the kind to spend a lot of time outside, get a Shih Tzu dog.
When you’re out in public, though, you should always have a strategy to keep your Shih Tzus occupied.
The socialization of a Shih Tzu is three times easier than that of most other dog breeds.
12. Shih Tzus are wonderful companion dogs
Shih Tzus are mostly companion animals, supporting those in need of friendship and compassion.
Even if a person is in a terrible situation, this breed may be able to provide comfort and tranquility.
As a result, these puppies are commonly seen with elderly people, older couples, and in nursing homes or assisted living facilities.
This breed is also well-liked by teenagers and families with older children.
13. Shih Tzus are great family pets
One of the many advantages of owning a Shih Tzu is that it is usually regarded as the finest dog for any family.
They may be active and lively while yet relaxing on the couch.
It will be a pleasure to have their company in the house because they are not as noisy and demanding as some little pets.
They aren’t built to be guard dogs or to be very energetic, so they won’t make an excellent jogging companion.
However, they are bright and entertaining for both children and adults, making them an ideal choice for most families.
14. Shih Tzus adapt well
Whereas the Shih Tzu was created for royalty, it is a breed that may be used in a variety of situations.
As long as you’re with them, they don’t mind where you are or what you’re doing.
A Shih Tzu has the benefit of being able to live in an apartment as well as a country home.
They are so dedicated to the owner that they will live in a tent if necessary.
During the summer or in a hot climate, however, it is preferable to keep them indoors because they have a propensity to overheat fast.
15. Shih Tzus don’t long require daily walks
The Shih Tzu is a wonderful alternative for folks who aren’t or can’t be active every day due to its tiny size.
They don’t require a lot of outside activities because they’re little.
If you have a patio or balcony, it may be enough to keep them healthy.
A few trips to the grass to pee or the use of an indoor device can help you manage their needs more effectively.
You’ll want to have a variety of toys available for them to play with indoors to keep them cognitively active, but that’s typically all you need to do.
16. Shih Tzus are an excellent choice for senior citizens
The Shih Tzu is the dog for you if you’re a mature adult looking for a companion after you retire.
For a number of reasons, every senior citizen requires a dog, and Shih Tzu will give you all you need to know about living with a dog as a senior citizen.
You still have the chore of combing or brushing your Shih Tzu on a regular basis as a senior citizen to avoid hair tangles.
17. Shih Tzus are not hostile to Strangers
Shih Tzus aren’t the best watchdogs, but they’ll bark and wag their tails in a fun manner if they see a stranger.
Even if your dog hasn’t been fully socialized, you’ll discover that this breed is courteous to people you’ll meet during the day.
Many people are pleasant and would gladly receive a gentle head scratch in exchange for cheerful grins and tail wagging.
18. Shih Tzus are affectionate towards their owners
Few, if any, dogs can rival Shih Tzus when it comes to levels of devotion; in fact, Shih Tzus regularly beg their owners for affection.
Cuddles is one of the most typical ways for a Shih Tzu to show its affection for its owners; when a Shih Tzu loves you, it will want to be with you all of the time.
When Shih Tzus realize that their owner is going to work, they become anxious and start barking excessively in an attempt to get your attention.
19. Shih Tzus gets along with other dogs
Shih Tzus were created expressly to be companion dogs, and Shih Tzus have retained this selective breeding feature.
The Shih Tzu is one of, if not the best, dog breeds at getting along with other dogs because of its companion trait.
Shih Tzu’s love to play, and having a second dog around makes life a lot simpler for them.
20. Shih Tzus are easily transportable
Do you want a dog that you can carry with you everywhere you go? Shih Tzus will take care of you there as well.
You can carry them with you everywhere you go, whether you’re on the bus, walking along a crowded city street, or shopping at a mall.
Shih Tzus should get at least an hour of exercise every day because they are so active.
To minimize overheating, break this up into three shorter walks.
To make traveling with your dog stress-free, all you need is a good Shih Tzu carrier.
21. Shih Tzus are the best for city dwellers
Do you live in a busy city and desire a dog who will fit in with your lifestyle? Shih Tzus will look after you in every manner possible.
Other dog breeds, such as the Beagle and others, struggle to adjust to city life, but Shih Tzus thrive.
This is one of the key reasons Shih Tzus are becoming more popular.
22. Shih Tzus are great for singles
Are you seeking a canine companion if you’re single? Then Shih Tzus are the breed for you. They’ll give you all the love, attention, and hugs you’ll ever need.
Shih Tzus are getting more popular as a consequence of their strong attachment to their owners and families.
Shih Tzus are the breed for you if you live alone and need a dog to keep you company.
I have given you the primary Pros And Cons Of Shih Tzu, so it’s up to decide!!!
Read more: Are Shih Tzus Good With Kids: 9 Pros & 7 Cons.
