Shih Tzu Care: 9 Expert Tips for Health, Grooming & Training
As beloved "lion dogs" with distinctive traits, Shih Tzus require more than affection. Their care involves proper nutrition, early socialization, consistent health checkups, and dedicated grooming routines. By addressing these key needs, you can raise a happy, healthy, and well-adjusted Shih Tzu. Here are nine essential care tips:
#1. Protect Your Shih Tzu from Breathing Issues and Heat Sensitivity
Shih Tzus are a brachycephalic (short-nosed) breed, which means they require special care to support healthy breathing. Their facial structure can lead to upper airway issues such as narrow nostrils, an elongated soft palate, and a collapsing trachea. These are conditions that make them especially prone to breathing problems, particularly in warm weather.
Minimize your Shih Tzu’s exposure to heat, and watch closely for signs of heat stress, such as heavy panting, drooling, lethargy, or weakness. When walking your Shih Tzu, always use a harness instead of a neck collar, as collars can put pressure on the windpipe and worsen breathing problems like tracheal collapse or an elongated soft palate.
Due to their flat faces, Shih Tzus are at a higher risk of breathing difficulties. Watch for signs such as exercise intolerance, noisy breathing, coughing, bluish gums and tongue, or fainting, and seek immediate veterinary care if any of these symptoms occur.
#2. Prioritize Extensive Grooming Routines for Your Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu’s long, double coat grows continuously and needs regular maintenance to prevent matting and tangles. Without routine grooming, their fur can become overgrown and drag on the ground, leading to discomfort and hygiene issues.
To keep your Shih Tzu’s coat healthy and free of tangles, daily brushing is essential, especially around delicate areas like the eyes and ears. Bathe them every three to four weeks using a gentle dog shampoo to support skin health and maintain a clean, soft coat.
Professional grooming every four to eight weeks is recommended to keep your Shih Tzu’s coat manageable and healthy. Many owners choose a shorter “puppy cut” to reduce maintenance while keeping their dog comfortable and looking neat.
To prevent eye irritation, the hair around your Shih Tzu’s prominent eyes should be regularly trimmed or tied up. Additionally, hair inside the ear canals should be carefully removed by a groomer or veterinarian to reduce the risk of infection, and nails should be trimmed every three to four weeks to maintain paw health.
Consider using a premium natural product to keep your pet’s coat health ideal
Hair loss and poor coat condition can be stressful for both pets and their owners. That’s why Zumalka’s HEALTHY COAT was specially formulated to help support the health, strength, and appearance of your pet’s coat.
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#3. Maintain Essential Dental Hygiene for Your Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are highly vulnerable to dental disease, with as many as 80% of dogs showing symptoms by the age of two. Their compact jaws often cause teeth to crowd, creating ideal conditions for plaque and tartar to accumulate.
Brushing your Shih Tzu’s teeth two to three times a week, ideally daily, is essential for preventing plaque and tartar buildup. Use a dog-safe toothbrush and toothpaste to keep their mouth clean and support long-term dental health. Zumalka’s TARTAR CONTROL could also be a great natural solution.
Regular veterinary dental cleanings under anesthesia are often necessary to maintain your Shih Tzu’s oral health. Without proper care, dental infections can lead to serious complications affecting the kidneys, liver, heart, and joints.
Dental chews and dental-specific diets can be helpful additions to your Shih Tzu’s oral care routine. These supplements support cleaner teeth and fresher breath between professional cleanings and regular brushing.
#4. Ensure Your Shih Tzu’s Thorough Diet and Nutrition
Proper nutritional management is essential for Shih Tzus, as they are prone to hypoglycemia during puppyhood and obesity as adults. Meeting their unique dietary needs helps support steady energy levels, a healthy weight, and long-term well-being.
To prevent hypoglycemia, Shih Tzu puppies under four months should be fed three to four small meals daily or allowed to graze freely. Their diet should include high-quality proteins and healthy fats to support steady growth and energy levels.
Adult Shih Tzus should be fed a high-quality, calorie-dense dog food formulated for small breeds to meet their energy needs with smaller portions. Carefully measuring each meal helps prevent overfeeding and supports a healthy weight.
Offering your Shih Tzu table scraps or human food can cause digestive discomfort, lead to excess weight, and encourage fussy eating. To ensure balanced nutrition, treats should be limited to no more than 10% of their total daily calories.
#5. Ensure Early Socialization and Consistent Training for Your Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are smart and affectionate, but their independent nature means early socialization and consistent training are essential. Starting early helps prevent common behavior problems like fearfulness, aggression, barking, and nipping.
Start socializing your Shih Tzu early, ideally between 3 and 16 weeks, by exposing them to a variety of people, places, and other animals. Early socialization during this key developmental stage can reduce the risk of behavior issues by more than 60%.
Start basic training between 10 and 12 weeks of age by teaching essential commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” Shih Tzus respond best to positive reinforcement, using treats and praise, while harsh methods can lead to fear or resistance.
Enrolling your Shih Tzu in organized dog training classes provides structured opportunities for socialization and skill-building in a controlled environment. As a highly intelligent breed, Shih Tzus also benefit from mental stimulation through learning new tricks and commands.
#6. Give Your Shih Tzu Vigilant Eye Care
Due to their flat faces and large, exposed eyes, Shih Tzus are especially vulnerable to eye injuries and painful conditions. Without proper care, they may develop issues such as ulcers, infections, or chronic irritation.
Shih Tzus are prone to eye conditions like glaucoma, keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), and cataracts, which can cause discomfort or even vision loss if left untreated. Regularly check their eyes for redness, discharge, squinting, or pawing, early signs of irritation or infection that require prompt veterinary attention.
To protect your Shih Tzu’s eyes, keep the surrounding hair trimmed or tied up to prevent irritation from rubbing. Also, avoid high-risk activities, such as allowing them to ride with their head out the car window, which can lead to eye injuries.
#7. Manage Your Shih Tzu’s Need for Companionship and Prevent Separation Anxiety
Shih Tzus are devoted companion dogs that rely on regular human interaction and may struggle when left alone for long periods. In fact, 20–40% of young Shih Tzus are prone to developing separation anxiety without proper support and routine.
Shih Tzus are not well-suited for owners who are away for most of the day, as they require regular companionship to stay emotionally healthy. They should not be left alone for more than four hours at a time. Consider arranging a dog sitter if you'll be gone longer.
To support your Shih Tzu’s emotional well-being, provide a safe and enriching environment with regular mental and physical stimulation. Daily play, gentle training, and consistent interaction help reduce anxiety and keep them happy and well-adjusted.
#8. Support the Bone and Joint Health of Your Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are susceptible to musculoskeletal issues such as Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), patellar luxation, and hip dysplasia. Supporting their bone and joint health is essential to prevent pain, mobility problems, and long-term complications.
Weight management is essential for Shih Tzus, as obesity can worsen joint conditions and lead to early-onset arthritis. To protect their spine and joints, introduce ramps or pet stairs early to prevent injury from jumping on or off furniture.
Monitor your Shih Tzu for signs of joint or spinal problems, such as limping, difficulty standing, hesitation to use stairs or jump, a hunched back, or sudden loss of mobility. Early veterinary care is essential to manage these conditions and prevent long-term damage. Supplements like Omega 3 and TONICPET #1 and TONICPET #2 can also be beneficial to aging dogs to help strengthen their joints and bones. Even our JOINT & HIP SUPPORT remedy is a good option as soon as symptoms start
#9. Schedule Regular Professional Check-Ups and Consultations
Regular veterinary and pet homeopathy wellness checks are essential for monitoring your Shih Tzu’s overall health and catching potential problems early. Because this breed is prone to specific health issues, consistent preventive care can significantly improve long-term well-being and quality of life.
Adult Shih Tzus should receive a veterinary check-up at least once a year to monitor their ongoing health. For dogs aged 8 and older, twice-yearly visits are recommended to catch age-related conditions early and ensure proactive care.
During routine vet visits, Shih Tzus should be screened for common breed-related health issues. These include liver conditions like portosystemic shunt, kidney disease, bladder or kidney stones, heart disease, allergies, and chronic ear infections. Older Shih Tzus are also at higher risk for Cushing’s disease and cancer, making regular check-ups especially important as they age.
Investing in pet health insurance early in your Shih Tzu’s life can help manage the cost of unexpected illnesses, injuries, and hereditary conditions. Early coverage ensures access to timely care without financial strain as health needs arise.
A Final Word
By following these essential Shih Tzu care practices, you’ll promote your dog’s long-term health, comfort, and overall well-being. Meeting their unique needs ensures a happier, healthier life at every stage.
Consistent, attentive care not only prevents common health issues but also strengthens the trust between you and your Shih Tzu. This lifelong bond is built through daily routines, shared experiences, and the love you invest in their care.
FAQs
How to properly care for a Shih Tzu?
Proper Shih Tzu care includes regular grooming, a balanced diet, dental hygiene, early training, socialization, routine vet visits, and eye and joint care. Consistent attention to their physical and emotional needs ensures a healthy, happy companion.
What are the special features of a Shih Tzu?
Shih Tzus are affectionate toy breeds with a flat face, large eyes, and a long double coat. They thrive on companionship and need consistent grooming, gentle training, and regular care to stay healthy.
What do I need to know about owning a Shih Tzu?
Owning a Shih Tzu involves daily grooming, balanced nutrition, regular vet visits, and early socialization. These loving, people-oriented dogs need consistent care, gentle training, and close companionship to stay healthy, happy, and well-adjusted.
What are the don’ts for Shih Tzu?
Avoid overfeeding, harsh training, long periods alone, and skipping grooming or vet visits. Shih Tzus need gentle care, regular maintenance, and close companionship to prevent health issues and behavioral problems.
Is rice allowed for Shih Tzu?
Yes, cooked plain rice is safe for Shih Tzus in moderation. It can help with digestive issues or be mixed with lean proteins, but it shouldn’t replace a balanced, nutrient-rich dog food diet.
Can a Shih Tzu be left alone for 6 hours?
Shih Tzus should not be left alone for more than four hours, as they thrive on companionship. Leaving them alone for six hours may lead to stress, anxiety, or unwanted behavioral issues.
What are the pros and cons of a Shih Tzu dog?
Shih Tzus are affectionate, low-shedding companion dogs that thrive in small spaces and love people. However, they require daily grooming, regular vet care, and may experience breathing or dental issues due to their flat faces.
At what age is a Shih Tzu full-grown?
A Shih Tzu is typically full-grown by 10 to 12 months of age. While their height stabilizes earlier, they may continue filling out in weight and coat density until their first year.
How to identify a good quality Shih Tzu?
A good quality Shih Tzu has a sturdy build, a broad, round head, a short muzzle, large dark eyes, and a flowing double coat. Look for balanced proportions, confident temperament, and health clearance from a reputable breeder.
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