Shih Tzus are small, fluffy dogs that many people love. But some folks think they’re not great pets. These cute pups can be hard to train and need a lot of grooming.
Some people dislike Shih Tzus because they can be yappy and stubborn. They often bark at everything and may not listen to commands. This can make them tough to live with, especially in apartments or small homes.
Shih Tzus also need daily brushing to keep their long coats from getting matted. This takes time and effort that not everyone wants to give.
Plus, they can have health problems like eye issues and breathing troubles.
But does that make this breed bad?
Common Complaints About Shih Tzus
While Shih Tzus have plenty of lovable traits, they also come with some challenges that might make them a tough choice for some pet owners.
People often claim that Shih Tzus are difficult to own because they require a lot of upkeep.
Their long, beautiful coats need regular grooming, and without proper care, they can develop allergies that lead to itchy skin.
Additionally, their distinct facial structure can cause dental issues and breathing problems, and their large, expressive eyes are susceptible to various eye conditions.
Before choosing this breed, it’s important to understand these potential challenges to determine if a Shih Tzu is the right fit for you.
Shih Tzu Health Issues
Shih Tzus face a few health challenges that can affect their quality of life. These issues stem from their unique physical features and genetic makeup.
1. Brachycephalic Syndrome
Shih Tzus have flat faces, which can cause breathing problems. This condition is called brachycephalic syndrome. It makes their airways narrow and can lead to snoring, snorting, and difficulty breathing.
These dogs often struggle in hot weather or during exercise. They may overheat easily and need extra care to stay cool. Some Shih Tzus need surgery to open up their airways and breathe better.
Owners should watch for signs of distress like excessive panting or blue gums. Regular vet check-ups are important to manage this condition.
2. Eye Problems
Shih Tzus’ big, round eyes are prone to various issues. Their eyes often bulge out, making them more likely to get scratched or injured.
Common eye problems include:
- Dry eye
- Corneal ulcers
- Cherry eye (swollen tear gland)
- Cataracts
These dogs need regular eye cleaning to prevent infections. Owners should check their pets’ eyes daily for redness, discharge, or cloudiness.
Early treatment can prevent more serious issues down the line.
3. Dental Issues
Shih Tzus often have dental problems due to their small jaws and crowded teeth. This can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
Regular brushing is key to keeping their teeth healthy. Many Shih Tzus need professional cleanings more often than other breeds. Some may even need tooth extractions as they age.
Poor dental health can affect their overall well-being. It can make eating painful and lead to other health issues if left untreated.
Grooming And Bathing Demands
Shih Tzus need a lot of care to keep their coats clean and healthy. This can be a big job for owners.
Factors To Consider
Shih Tzus have long, silky coats that grow fast. They need brushing every day to stop knots and mats. Owners must use special combs and brushes made for long-haired dogs.
Bath time comes often for Shih Tzus – about once every 3-4 weeks. They need dog shampoo that won’t dry out their skin. After a bath, their coat needs blow-drying and brushing. This can take an hour or more.
Shih Tzus also need regular haircuts. Many owners take them to a groomer every 6-8 weeks. This costs money and time.
Common Complaints And Solutions
Many Shih Tzu owners find grooming hard work. The dogs can get dirty fast, especially around their eyes and mouth.
Some people solve this by keeping their Shih Tzu’s hair cut short. This “puppy cut” style needs less daily care. But it still requires regular trims.
Others hire pro groomers to do the work. This saves time but costs more money. Some owners learn to groom at home with the right tools and practice.
Eye stains are another problem. Wiping the dog’s face daily with a damp cloth can help. Special wipes made for dogs can also reduce tear stains.
Stubbornness And Training Challenges
Shih Tzus can be stubborn little dogs. They often have their own ideas about what they want to do. This can make training them tough.
Many owners find housebreaking a Shih Tzu to be a real challenge. These dogs may take longer to potty train than other breeds. They can be set in their ways and resist learning new habits.
Shih Tzus don’t always listen to commands. They may ignore their owners when called. This can be frustrating for people who want an obedient pet.
Their independent nature affects how they learn. Shih Tzus may lose interest in training sessions quickly.
They get bored easily and stop paying attention.
Treats don’t always work to motivate these dogs. Some Shih Tzus aren’t food-driven. This makes reward-based training less effective.
Consistency is key when working with a Shih Tzu. Owners need patience and a firm approach. Short, fun training sessions work best for these dogs.
Positive reinforcement helps, but it takes time. Praising good behavior can slowly shape a Shih Tzu’s actions. Still, progress may be slower than with other breeds.
Some Shih Tzus never fully master certain commands. They may always have selective hearing.
This trait can test an owner’s patience over time.
The Positives Of Owning A Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus have many good qualities that make them popular pets. These small dogs can be great companions for the right owners.
1. They Are Affectionate And Loving
Shih Tzus are known for their loving nature. They form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy being close to them. These dogs often want to cuddle and sit in their owner’s lap.
Shih Tzus are good with kids and other pets. They tend to get along well with everyone in the family.
Their friendly personality makes them a hit at social gatherings too.
These dogs show their love through gentle licks and nuzzles. They’re always happy to see their owners, even after a short time apart.
Shih Tzus thrive on human contact and attention.
2. Adaptability
Shih Tzus can live almost anywhere. They do well in small apartments or big houses. These dogs don’t need a yard to be happy.
They adjust to new situations easily. Shih Tzus can handle changes in routine without much stress. This makes them good for people who travel or move often.
Shih Tzus get along with other pets too. They can live with cats, other dogs, or even small animals like rabbits.
Their easy-going nature helps them fit into most households.
3. Low Exercise Needs
Shih Tzus don’t need a lot of exercise. A short daily walk is enough to keep them healthy. This makes them a good fit for less active owners.
These dogs are content with indoor play. A few games of fetch or tug-of-war can tire them out.
Shih Tzus don’t need hours of outdoor time like some breeds do.
Their low energy level means they’re not destructive when left alone. Shih Tzus are happy to nap while their owners are at work. This makes them a good choice for busy people.
Tips For Prospective Shih Tzu Owners
Getting a Shih Tzu requires careful thought and planning. New owners should learn about the breed, find a good breeder, and commit to training.
Research And Prepare
Shih Tzus need lots of care and attention. They have long coats that need daily brushing and regular grooming.
This takes time and costs money for supplies or professional grooming.
These dogs also need dental care. Their flat faces can lead to breathing issues and eye problems. Vet bills may be higher than for some other breeds.
Shih Tzus like to be with people. They don’t do well if left alone for long periods. New owners should think about their schedules and if they can give a Shih Tzu enough time and care.
Choose A Reputable Breeder Or Rescue
Good breeders test their dogs for health issues common in Shih Tzus. They give puppies early socialization and care.
Reputable breeders let buyers meet the puppy’s parents and see where the dogs live.
Rescue groups are another option. They often have adult Shih Tzus that need homes. These dogs may already be trained and have known personalities.
Both breeders and rescues should answer questions about the dog’s health and behavior.
They should also ask questions to make sure their dogs go to good homes.
Commit To Training And Socialization
Shih Tzus can be stubborn. They need consistent, positive training from an early age. Short, fun training sessions work best. Treats and praise help motivate these dogs.
Early socialization is key. Shih Tzus should meet many people, animals, and see different places when young. This helps prevent fear or aggression later.
House training can take longer for Shih Tzus than some breeds. Owners need patience and a set routine. Crate training often helps with this process.
Wrapping Up
Shih Tzus have their critics. Some people find them high-maintenance and hard to train. Their long coats need a lot of care, and they can be noisy. These dogs may not fit well in every home.
But it’s important to remember that every dog breed has its pros and cons. What some see as flaws, others might love.
Shih Tzus are loyal and loving pets for many families.
Before getting any dog, it’s smart to do research. Think about your lifestyle and what you want in a pet. This helps make sure both you and your new furry friend will be happy.
In the end, the “worst” dog breed is different for everyone.
It all comes down to personal taste and what works best for each family.
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