10 Signs That Your Shih Tzu Is Dying

Do you want to know the signs that your Shih Tzu is dying, then that is what this post is all about, so continue reading.

We will outline and discuss the most common signs that your Shih Tzu is dying we will also discuss ways to comfort your dying Shih Tzu.

Shih Tzus are actually among the longest living breed of small dogs, generally, small breeds live longer than most large breeds.

Let me point out that how long, healthy, and happy your Shih Tzu lives depends on how you care for them. Let’s talk about signs that your Shih Tzu is dying, which is why you are here.

Signs That Your Shih Tzu Is Dying

The most common signs that your Shih Tzu is dying include: unusual freezing, changed temperament, changes in body smell, extreme weight loss, slowed breathing rate, lack of interest in anything, distant look in their eyes, increased self-isolation, and death.

Lets now explain the signs that your Shih Tzu is dying we mentioned above.

Here are some common signs that your Shih Tzu is dying, you should look out for:

1. Chronic loss of coordination

If you see your athletic and enthusiastic Shih Tzu tripping or having difficulties regulating their muscles, it’s probable that they’re losing their sense of coordination.

Coordination issues can be caused by underlying diseases, ear infections, or other injuries, and depending on your Shih Tzu’s age and current health, they could be a warning that he is reaching the end of his life.

If you detect a persistent lack of coordination or are concerned about your Shih Tzu’s stability, contact your veterinarian to make sure your Shih Tzu isn’t sick or dying.

2. Constant weight loss

As Shih Tzus age, they tend to eat less, which can contribute to weight loss, which is common in senior Shih Tzus.

Most Shih Tzu owners will find this tough to witness or experience, and going through such a period with their Shih Tzu would require courage.

If, after your veterinarian has ruled out any other conditions, your Shih Tzu continues to lose weight, the end is near.

It’s unusual for elderly dogs to become excessively thin and emaciated just because of their age.

However, in many cases, weight loss is caused by degenerative disorders including chronic renal or hepatic insufficiencies, as well as cancer, all of which might result in your Shih Tzu’s death.

Muscle degeneration due to old age is one of the causes of weight loss in old Shih Tzu.

3. Respiratory problems

Your dog may have liked running about and playing when he was younger, but as he gets older, he may be unable to do so without panting.

You may notice that your dog inhales and exhales more slowly than usual, or that he or she has difficulty catching his or her breath.

Respiratory problems are usually a sign of heart failure or a problem with the respiratory system.

With time, your dog’s capacity to breathe will most likely deteriorate.

Shih Tzus are predisposed to respiratory difficulties due to their nose shape; picture how much worse it becomes as they age.

As the dog approaches death, its breathing becomes shallow with very lengthy gaps between breaths, which can take anything from a few days to a few hours.

With a very weak pulse, the dog’s heart rate will drop from 120 to 80 beats per minute to 70 to 60 beats per minute.

In the final hours, you will observe that your dog is breathing shallowly and is not moving. Typically, your dog will sleep in a dark or hidden area of your home.

4. Bladder conditions

Keep an eye on your Shih Tzu’s bathroom habits, since an uncontrollable bladder and anal sphincter control are two other signs of a dying Shih Tzu.

As he approaches death, your Shih Tzu will urinate and defecate in unusual areas.

Even the most disciplined or well-trained Shih Tzu is susceptible to these indications. Urination will be sporadic and uncontrollable.

As he approaches death, your Shih Tzu will have watery diarrhea that is occasionally foul-smelling and sometimes blood-tinged.

Your dog will urinate and defecate for the last time after death due to a complete absence of muscle control.

5. Excessive shedding and skin conditions

You’ll be able to see how dehydration affects the skin of a dying Shih Tzu despite the fact that your fuzzy buddy is completely covered in fur.

Their hair and skin will decline in quality and condition day by day.

It will ultimately dry out and become harsh, no matter how hard you try to maintain it smooth and silky.

Even with careful Shih Tzu maintenance, your Shih Tzu will eventually lose its gorgeous hairs.

Excessive shedding combined with age is a symptom that your Shih Tzu is nearing the end of his or her life.

6. Slowed mobility rate

As your Shih Tzu grows older, his or her mobility will deteriorate even further.

The dog’s strength may deteriorate to the point that he or she is unable to stand at an elderly age.

Your Shih Tzu’s legs may begin to fatigue, making it difficult for them to climb stairs or cross slick surfaces.

As time passes, your Shih Tzu may be unable to rise and walk about; some may even struggle to lift their heads.

One of the final measures before your Shih Tzu surrenders is to slow down his or her speed of movement.

7. Muscle tremors on a regular basis

Lack of food can cause muscle tremors in Shih Tzus, and as a result, your Shih Tzu may get dehydrated and exhibit muscular tremors.

Frequent muscle tremors are a clear sign of old age in Shih Tzus, which can be triggered by excessive exercise.

When your Shih Tzu does not eat or drink, his glucose levels decrease, producing weakness and muscle spasms.

If you’re not familiar with tremors in Shih Tzus, they’re characterized by twitching, shaking, and a drop in body temperature.

The greatest thing you can do is make sure your dog is well-fed and kept warm by covering them with a blanket.

Spend some time hugging your Shih Tzu and talking to your vet to keep your Shih Tzu warm and comfortable in its final days.

8. Constant vomiting

Even if your dog isn’t sick, you’ll notice that as they die, they’re vomiting a lot.

Vomiting is a common symptom of illness, but it can also indicate that a dog’s digestive tract is slowing down.

Food takes longer to digest when the digestive system slows down due to an upset stomach, and your dog will vomit the undigested food in his stomach.

While both you and your dog may be distressed by vomiting, there are ways to help them feel better.

Consult your veterinarian and get food that is gentle on your dog’s enlarged stomach to make the treatment easier for you and your pet.

Constant vomiting as they grow older is a sign that your Shih Tzu is dying.

9. Inability to regulate body temperature

Shih Tzus may lose their ability to control their own body temperatures as they age or have other health problems, leading them to lose body heat often.

As a result, a Shih Tzu on the verge of passing away will have a lower body temperature than usual, which will be noticed by the owner.

Just keep in mind that if you live in a colder region, your puppy may become too chilly, and if you don’t, your puppy may die or become ill.

You may also keep your dog warm by raising his body temperature with a heated bed or a warm blanket. Make an appointment with your veterinarian as well.