Breeding Business, 2015-2023 All rights reserved. Selecting traits solely for their looks has caused higher rates of inbreeding in most caninesand as a result, higher vet costs. They should not be bred during the first heat cycle, and some breeders even suggest they wait until their third cycle. Allergies can be caused by many factors and can result in your pup becoming very uncomfortable and even sometimes in pain. This can put them at a higher risk for overheating or heat stroke, so they need to stay out of the hot summer weather. If you need a little more convincing, though these are five important reasons why you should continue obedience training with your dog. This may be the worst issue you will have to deal with when owning a Shih Tzu. Many breeds with large founding populations were originally bred fortheir function and intelligencenot for their looks. Shih Tzu dogs are as cute as can be physically and socially. A bath about every three or Birth defects Genetically inherited health problems like hip dysplasia or cataracts Deafness Heart defects Reproductive issues Puppy mortality Founded in 1884, the not-for-profit AKC is the recognized and trusted expert in breed, health, and training information for all dogs. The American Kennel Club, Inc. 2022. Infant mortality is rare, but when it happens, it can often be traced back to poor environmental conditions. Vets know the likelihood of inbreeding is high when they encounter these breeds, but genetic testing, such as this genetic COI kit, is the only way to know conclusively just how inbred your dog is. A Shih Tzu needs the hair around his eye trimmed or pulled up with a hair tie to avoid any eye irritation. If your dog is displaying these signs, you should take him to his vet for treatment. Her work has been published in PawTracks and Wikimotive. Female Shih Tzus in particular have this issue. Get practical pet health tips, articles, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your inbox. The well-bred Shih Tzu is not shy or aggressive, but alert and livelya true loyal companion. Over time, flat faces have become even more pronounced, making breathing more difficult, contributing to snoring and causing respiratory problems that limited the amount of exercise that some of these dogs can tolerate. The two smaller poodle varietiestoy and miniature poodlesare used to cross with the shih tzu, which is also a small breed. Because Shih Tzu and other brachycephalic dogs have small mouths, their teeth tend to be crowded. Janice Jones is a long-time breeder, dog lover, and writer. Severely affected dogs have more pronounced airway noise, appear to tire easily with exercise, and may collapse or faint after exercise. Females are most fertile between 1 and 6 years of life. WebMildly affected dogs will have noisy breathing, especially with exercise, and most will snort when excited and snore when relaxed or asleep. If you are curious as to why your Shih Tzu is scratching and itching, keep reading to see a list of 5 reasons why this could be happening and some common solutions to these problems! Additionally, supplements may need to be introduced into your dogs diet, as well as the restriction of sodium. Sadly, inbreeding is all too common in the world of our canine companions. Travel together WebHere are the more serious issues that may be causing your Shih Tzu to scratch and itch: Ear infection you may notice your Shih Tzu scratching their ears a lot in particular, this may Not only are these booties adorable, but they will help eliminate any discomfort your pup may be feeling and prevent them from. Your Privacy Rights These ulcers appear as a dot on the dark part of your dogs eyes. The best way to reassure yourself about a reputable breeder is research. Cookie Settings, Lua Bittencourt via Wikimedia Commons under CC BY 2.0, Five Places Where You Can Still Find Gold in the United States, Scientists Taught Pet Parrots to Video Call Each Otherand the Birds Loved It, The True Story of the Koh-i-Noor Diamondand Why the British Won't Give It Back, Balto's DNA Provides a New Look at the Intrepid Sled Dog. The small, happy pups are loved for their friendly, affectionate personalities. Shih Tzu are playful, intelligent, and want to please their pet parents. They can be curious and dig if left unattended, so its important to monitor them closely in new or outdoor environments. In general, Shih Tzu are considered a healthy breed of dog, but they can experience some health conditions. If you are a Shih Tzu parent or have any brachycephalic dog breed then you should be aware of the following symptoms of breathing problems: Undeveloped airways can be seen on the surface level if the nostrils are narrow or tight. As with narrow airways, this is hard to identify by sight, but you will hear your dog making snorting and grunting sounds when breathing. The retina is one of the innermost sections of the eyeball and is largely responsible for clear vision. As mentioned in our article on how to bathe your dog, your dog has sensitive skin! If he gets bit by a flea or a tick, he suffers from severe itchiness. Thankfully, a lot of these issues can be cured with the right treatment. WebHere is a list of 5 reasons why your Shih Tzu is itching and scratching: 1. Never disregard, avoid or delay in obtaining medical advice from your veterinarian or other qualified veterinary health care provider regardless of what you have read on this site or elsewhere. There are some who list dogs weighing less than 5 lbs as micro tiny teacup.. For pet owners, this bad behavior is the most annoying. Now what. Many dog breeders intentionally choose to inbreed dogs to strengthen certain physical and behavioral traits, as well as to keep the breeds bloodline pure. This is characterized by upper airway abnormalities such as: All of these aspects can cause trouble breathing and make Shih Tzu more prone to overheating. Plan a breeding program, master canine genetics, and use the right strategies. Many breeders ask for non-refundable deposits, which is normal, but only do so once youre happy with your choice. In some cases, retinal tissue can be regrown with non-surgical procedures. The Shih Tzu breed is truly ancient, going back for a millennium or more. The best way to be sure of this is by seeing your future puppy. Thyroid hormones can also affect Shih Tzu, if they develop hypothyroidism, a Shih Tzu will oftentimes begin scratching and itching. There are several unique shampoos available for Shih Tzu with dry, itchy skin that include: There are also many other ways to treat your Shih Tzus itching, especially if they are dealing with allergies in particular! Newcomers who are interested in breeding Shih Tzus should familiarize themselves with their breeds standard, the health concerns of the breed and find a mentor if possible. For severe cases, there is a corrective surgery available. If you notice your dog is experiencing difficulty with his vision, he may have a detached retina and you should seek medical attention immediately. Other signs may include coughing, gagging, retching, and vomiting. As long as they are socialized at a young age, this breed is great with children and other animals as well. Some serious health problems Teacup Shih Tzus face are: Blindness Heart defects Arthritis Seizures Liver shunts Patella luxation Hydrocephalus Dental problems Most often, your dogs vet will perform surgery to remove the cataract, but there is a non-invasive procedure known as phacoemulsification. When you notice your dog behaving this way or exhibiting foul smells or discharge from his ears, you should take him to visit his vet. A Shih Tzu entering a conformation show may be one of the most coiffured dogs in caninedom, but ask any Shih Tzu owner and the temperament wins over looks, hands down. Not all Shih Tzu experience this condition, but it is noted as common in this breed. If you want to foray into the big dog section (or there isn't an area available for your pup), you can always ask the group if the dogs in there are friendly to their little cousins. The CDC has reported they are aware of a small number of pets to be infected with COVID-19, after contact with people infected with the virus. This is what the CDC has to say about it: "The CDC hasn't received any reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19, and no evidence that companion animals (pets) can spread COVID-19. Can a 2 siblings shih tzu can mate and bear a puppy? | PetCoach They seem to share the same life expectancy of a Shih Tzu. Prolonged stress can lead to health issues, so important for you to know when your pup is feeling uncomfortable. The dogs breathing will become difficult and can become a relevant health risk. Shih Tzu dogs do not do well in kennels. Bring your dog to his vet for a diagnosis and treatment. One of the most amazing things about this breed is the number of colors that show up in puppies. If you notice your dog exhibiting these symptoms, and he is six years or older, have his vet perform an examination and determine a proper course of treatment. What to Look for When Buying Dog Food for MY Shih Tzu? It is best to have them examined to see what the exact problem is. Your dogs resting pulse should be between 70 to 130 beats per minute. Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. In humans, inbreeding levels between 3 percent and 6 percent result in higher chances of cancer or hereditary disorders, per Gizmodo. This dwarfing down to produce tiny dogs well below the standards of the main kennel clubs of the world has led to breeders coining new names for these mini versions of the standard Shih Tzu such as teacup, miniature, and Imperials to command higher prices. Seasonal allergies are worse for dogs in the spring and summer months when there is increased pollen, mold, etc. When they suddenly begin itching and scratching, you are probably going to worry until you figure out what the problem is. There are many reasons why a Shih Tzu may scratch and itch. Shih Tzu are known for their sensitive skin. Not only does inbreeding cause health issues, but inbred dogs are also more likely to display behavioral problems than outbred dogs. These infections are often treated with topical and/or oral medications. If you want to ensure that your new pup is as healthy and well-adjusted as possible, we recommend thoroughly researching breeders and requesting a genetic COI before you purchase a puppy. Senior dog incontinence can be stressful for you, but there are things you can do to manage this problem. 09740325). She lives in the U.S. with her 15 Shih Tzu dogs and sells puppies from her Ohio home. When they cannot breathe properly, they cannot regulate temperature efficiently. The other main problems that have been identified in the breed include kidney problems such as Renal Dysplasia and liver problems such as Portalsystemic Shunt. Corneal ulcers are generally treated with anti-bacterial drops or ointment. All rights reserved. Shih Tzu make wonderful emotional support dogs due to their small stature, loyalty, and calm spirit. Your vet will surgically replace the gland or remove it entirely depending on the severity of the condition. The vet was able to treat this condition, and now Rufus lets us rub and clean his ears without raising much of a fuss. Fortunately the vet discovered this condition and was quick to clean it up, but Rufus continued to have problems. Struggling to breathe. The toxins build up, eventually causing chronic gastrointestinal issues, stunted growth, and even neurologic signs such as ataxia (a drunken sailor gait) or seizures. If you notice your Shih Tzu itching and scratching consistently but have ruled out the less serious issues above, your pup may have a more serious problem such as an ear infection, parasites, or an underlying health condition. Shih Tzu There are checks for endocrine problems and VonWilebrands Disease but as with all genetic testing, there are no guarantees. Lagophthalmos is the condition that inhibits your dog from closing his eyelids all the way. 23 Notaroadbiker 6 yr. ago Here are some of the most common skin issues that Shih Tzu have: TIP:It is best to get your Shih Tzu to the vet if they have a skin issue so that they can be prescribed the necessary medications, creams, shampoos, etc. This paw washerhas been a game-changer for my dog. Common health issues include neurological conditions, skin problems, gastrointestinal matters, and joint problems, such as hip dysplasia. Help! Treating a ruptured disk depends on the severity of the condition. The reason for their discomfort could range from common skin issues such as allergies to more serious problems like ringworm or parasites. When this happens, eyes can become scratched or damaged. Your vet can help you identify the cause of a skin condition and how to treat it. Top picks for best dog food for allergies. The whites of his eyes become red from irritation. If your vet determines that your dog has liver inflammation, he or she may prescribe medication to eliminate fluid buildup. eating all sorts of things they shouldnt, Pawp: a 24/7 digital clinic for pets that connects you to an experienced vet, Shih Tzu Obsessive Licking (Quick Solutions Guide), 7 Causes of Smelly Odors in Your Samoyed and How to Fix Them, Solving Your Samoyeds Licking Habits: 5 Common Causes and Solutions, 10 Reasons your Samoyed Howls (Dog or part Wolf? This combination can trap moisture in the ears, leading to red, painful, or itchy ears. Scientists have determined that the breed is one that possesses some ancient DNA, making them among others very close to their wolf precursors. You may notice your Shih Tzu sneezes more so than itches or scratches; this could indicate they have inhaled an allergen that is affecting them. From the, When it comes to determining the degree of inbreeding in a given pup, the experts use a method of calculation called . But, I am able to provide natural flea and tick solutions that help him since he cannot stay inside forever! Shih Tzu can develop liver disease due to chronic hepatitis (liver inflammation). Dogs experience stress, but can't verbalize it. Shih Tzu do not require a great deal of exercise and are happy to just be with you. Its no surprise that Shih Tzu owners have been so delighted with this little Lion Dog for a thousand years. They are a business, after all, and should have a presence of satisfied customers. Obesity in dogs can lead to other issues such as diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and difficulty breathing. Allergies and ear problems are ubiquitous, and even umbilical hernias and severe dental problems are not uncommon. Some breeders would also add that breeding Shih Tzu dogs is not for the faint of heart but is done as a labor of love. Fully grown, their fur runs flush along the ground. Some can have tri-tone, black mask, or black tips. He or she may perform some tooth extractions to allow the remaining teeth to rearrange in a comfortable position for your dog. This may have nothing to do with fewer dogs and more to do with pet owners who do not register their purebred dogs. Fortunately, Max and Rufus have never had luxating patella this severe! If your Shih Tzu is uncomfortable with their hormone changes, they may just be scratching out ofgeneral discomfort and not because they are itching. Certain dog breeds are renowned for possessing specific traits. The average Shih Tzu lifespan is 10-18 years, and they are considered a healthy breed overall, though they can be prone to certain medical conditions. It causes excess protein to be lost from the body and may cause the kidneys to malfunction at an early age. That face! But no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, as skin and salvia still contain allergens. Very informative but please put more faith in the American Shih Tzu Club veteran breeders (and I am one), repro vets, etc. (note: Check your local pet store first, but if they don't have it you can usually find it on Amazon). Clinical signs can include: Chronic therapy with diet changes, oral medications, and sometimes fluid therapy is required for treatment. The good news about color in this breed is that all colors are acceptable and no color has been associated with other problems such as deafness. Featuring yet another difficult name, this health condition is the growth of eyelashes or hair from the coat inward or out of position toward the eye. If your dog is displaying any of these symptoms, please take him to a veterinarian. Luckily, you can start right here! If excessive hair is noted inside the ear canals, your veterinarian or groomer may recommend removing it to avoid irritation. Breeding a dog for looks, rather than focusing on healthy genes, is bound to have a negative impact on the dogs future well-being. Discover how it affects your dog and what you can do, Do Shih Tzu Get Cold in the Winter? That said, Shih Tzu can be a good fit for some people with dog allergies. Why Does My Shih Tzu Have This condition is not an emergency, but you should have it examined at your dogs next vet visit. With so many who love the breed, the future of breeding Shih Tzus, barring any unforeseen disasters, remains excellent. If you see your dog experiencing any of these problems, bring him to his vet for an examination and diagnosis. I think my dog has fleas. New breeders should be aware of the various types of eye diseases and make efforts to get dogs tested on a yearly basis. These allergies are caused by exposure to dust, mold, grass, etc. content, products, and resources as well as animal education; the information and content on breedingbusiness.com is intended They are designed to keep the skin calm and eliminate pain and inflammation from allergies. Shih Tzu should be socialized at a young age to avoid any anxiety, otherwise they might bark or dig. Prevention is the only option at the time of this writing. By the 1930s, some were being imported to the UK. Breeding decisions can then be made with all health results. She is the editor, publisher, and main contributor to 3 different dog blogs including Miracle Shih Tzu. If the condition is too severe to be reversed, then your vet will teach you how to help your pet cope with his handicap. Keep in mind that when we say common we do not mean that every Shih Tzu will experience these issues, but that if your Shih Tzu does have an issue, it will likely be one of the following: Shih Tzu are a brachycephalic dog breed. Use dog wipes to keep any debris off of their fur and skin. Why is my old dog peeing in the house? Get Answers Online with Local Vets! Eye discharge ( sometimes becoming red) Itchiness. After her death, some of her dogs were obtained by wealthy individuals who later formed a kennel club in 1923. They have long, smooth haircoats, a squished muzzle, a pronounced underbite, and short, floppy ears. Mary Johnson is a writer and photographer from New Orleans, Louisiana. Routine teeth brushing, professional dental cleanings, and surgical removal of any lingering baby teeth will help keep your Shih Tzus mouth healthy. Easy Sign UP! Your dogs retina can become detached due to severe trauma, glaucoma, or high blood pressure, but it is most common caused by age. The Shih Tzu is a sturdy, spirited, small breed with a long, silky double coat, a short, upturned nose, and short legs. Antibiotics are also usually administered to prevent infection. While previous studies have shown that small dogs live longer than large dogs, no one had previously reported on morbidity or the presence of disease," says study author Danika Bannasch, a veterinary geneticist at the University of California, Davis,in astatement. Periodontal disease, or dental disease, is commonly seen in Shih Tzu dogs because their teeth can easily overcrowd their small mouths. Stress in Dogs: How to spot the signs and how to help. Thankfully a veterinarian can check to see if your Shih Tzus hormones are out of balance and find a fix that will provide your pup more comfort. They make loyal, loving companions for families with children and other animals. After all, not everyone you meet will love a dog jumping on them. Aside from these big-name issues, Teacup Shih Tzu owners should regularly be on a look-out for their dogs blood sugar level being so small makes it important to not miss a meal as well as getting cold easily (hence little dogs often being dressed in sweaters). But you can have all sorts of good times with your little guy. This coat is often shaved short into a "puppy cut to avoid continuous grooming, because if left uncut, the fur can grow so long that it drags on the ground. Rachael Leigh Cook Says It Was A Huge Mistake To Pass On This Superhero Movie, Leonardo DiCaprios Worst Movie Is So Terrible It Has a 0% Rotten Tomatoes Score, This Rock Icon Was On An Episode Of DS9 And Many Star Trek Fans Had No Idea, The True Story of Why James Cameron Tried To Disown His First Movie, 5 Highly Underrated Futurama Episodes That Many Fans Have Overlooked. Try Pawp 7 Days For Free. While we provide informational They should be confident, friendly, outgoing, trusting and most importantly affectionate. Dames and sires hips can be X-rayed and knees can be palpated. Shih Tzu mixes are a cross between two purebred dogs that can result in a variety of desirable traits. Shih Tzu Dog Breed Information - American Kennel Club Anti-itch lotions, creams, and paw balms these can all help keep your pups skin and paw pads moisturized so that the itching is lessened! (And dont forget about mutts! document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Breeding Business is a platform dedicated to ethical dog breeding around the world. The Teacup Shih Tzu is a prime example of compact cuteness made even smaller. If your dog regularly makes snoring noises or coughs a lot when breathing, then he may have a narrow airway. Best Dog Clippers for Matted Hair [Pet Safe], 7 Best Dog Clippers for Professional Use [Ultimate Guide], Best Dog Clippers for Poodles [Safe & Easy to Use]. Shih Tzu are also known foreating all sorts of things they shouldnt, this can play a huge part in them developing allergies or reactions to the certain things they eat or inhale when outside! Its important to address this issue quickly because corneal ulcers are uncomfortable and sometimes painful for your dog. Shih Tzu are pleasant, energetic companions. While many dog breeds have high degrees of inbreeding, some are worse than others. Don't stay away from the park just because your bud can't race around for hours on end. Nose bleeds. This goal can be achieved by using genetic screening, educating breeders, and maintaining diversity in pups with low inbreeding levels. However, there is no reason why your Shih Tzu should be itching and scratching all the time. Theres been so much literature available about puppy mills that theyre a pretty easy scam to notice and avoid. Unsustainable generations of selective inbreeding have exaggerated the breed's features to an unhealthy, extreme degree. If arranging furniture isn't an option, there are pet steps or a ramp, which could help. Underdeveloped and deformed airways can cause your dog to have a soft palate, leading to breathing issues. Breeding Shih Tzus Context, Health and Future of the Here are some of the most beneficial tips and tricks for reducing itching and maintaining your Shih Tzus healthy skin: While we strive to give the most accurate and helpful information about your pets health that we can, this article is meant to be informational only and not medical advice. Routine professional grooming should be part of your budget, to either maintain the long hair coat or to shave it into a cute Shih Tzu haircut periodically. We only recommend high-quality products that are used and recommended by real owners. WebThe Shih Tzu is more likely than other breeds to have a liver disorder called portosystemic shunt (PSS). If you came near his ears, he would recoil and snap. 7 Reasons Why Your Poodle Whines & Cries (Quick Solutions Guide), Bathing Your Border Collie (Frequency, & Puppy Tips). Usually, the vet can treat the condition with some cleaning and ear drops. Because of this, breeds like the Shih Tzu cannot handle hot weather as well as humans or other dog breeds. AKC actively advocates for responsible dog ownership and is dedicated to advancing dog sports. Puppy buyers often insist on specific colors, so one of the first lessons that new Shih Tzu breeders learn is that of color genetics. Some cases of overheating have even lead to death. Shih Tzu are small in size but have big personalities. Your vet may prescribe a medication, special shampoo, etc. Required fields are marked *. Inbreeding not only results in reduced litter size, but it also leaves inbred pups smaller than non-inbred dogs of the same breed. 5 Reasons Why Your Shih Tzu Is Scratching & Itching Hip dysplasia results when the hip joints dont properly fit together, eventually leading to arthritis, trouble walking, and pain. At what age should your dog be spayed or neutered. Usually, this is all a dog needs to do to correct displaced kneecaps. Since the mating pool for these little ones is limited and not always guaranteed healthy results, anyone wanting to adopt a Teacup will need to be ready to pay for it. These dogs were bred for hunting, keeping guard, and tracking. Also, dental chews and supplements may be recommended by your vet to lessen the risk of periodontal disease. These deformed and underdeveloped airways are a problem for the following reasons: Brachycephalic dogs may have trouble taking in the proper amounts of oxygen. Some of the most common ways to cure a Shih Tzu that is scratching and itching badly is to bathe the pup with a special anti-itch shampoo, use certain medication(s), and make use of the many allergy prevention methods offered to itchy pups! Lagophthalmos can lead to dry eyes or corneal scratching. Inbreeding also makes dogs much more likely to develop a genetically predisposed disorder at some point during their life. If youre in contact with a breeder from out-of-state, video chat with them to see the dog in action. Be sure to know what your getting when searching for an insurance provider for your precious pup. Whether you are thinking of getting a Shih Tzu or you already have one just know that behavior issues are normal for toy breeds, but you can reverse What you should know before buying a dog brush, What to Look for When Buying a Dog clipper, Best Advanced & Budget Friendly Dog Clipper (Under $200), Dog Clipper Basics and Crucial Safety Tips, Shampoo with the Best Natural Ingredients, Dog Shampoo and Grooming Basics and Crucial Safety Tips, Best Dog Bowls for Dogs with Digestion issues, Best Advanced & Budget Friendly Dog Drinking station, Dog Bowls (Buyers Guide) and Crucial Safety Tips, Shih Tzu haircuts: The hairstyles and Types. Shih Tzu love to be spoiled with attention and treats; they love to please their pet parents and are usually quick to learn new tricks to get the treats and praise they crave. While less common, some Shih Tzus are allergic to airborne allergens like pollen or dust. The three forms of harmful mutations (additive, dominant, and recessive) are easily bred out of dogs with greater generic variance, especially when it comes to a damaged sequence responsible for recessive genetic traits. If the vet diagnoses your dog with dry eye, he or she can recommend or prescribe eye drops to be given daily. It is normally very easy to see if your Shih Tzu has fleas on its body. Here is a list of 5 reasons why your Shih Tzu is itching and scratching: Allergies are a very common reason why Shih Tzu itch and scratch. It will normally become an obsessive habit, oftentimes causing issues to the dogs skin, while also causing annoyance to the owner because of the obsessive behavior. These little lion dogs, as their name means, were associated with Buddhism and, because Tibet did not have indigenous lions, the spiritual leaders bred their dogs to look like lions, according to the Shih Tzu Club. It also appears the virus that causes Covid can spread from People to Animals in some situations. According to the Institute of Canine Biology, dog breeds with greater than 5% inbreeding are at an increased risk of reduced fertility and smaller litters. When this occurs, dogs are at risk for infection, corneal ulceration, and vision loss. If you discover a large red lump in the corner of your dogs eye, you should take him to his vet. These issues cannot be treated at home and generally require surgery. 1000's of breeders love The Dog Breeder's Handbook. Take your pup there to find friends of a similar size. Diet changes and oral medications can also be used to manage dogs with milder signs. Keep in mind that when we say common we do not mean that every Shih Tzu will experience these issues, but that if your Shih Tzu does have an issue, it will likely be one of the following: Shih Tzu are a brachycephalic dog breed . This means that they have shorter snouts and flatter faces than other breeds of dogs. [Image courtesy of Caen Elegans] Dogs with flat faces, such as the Shih Tzu, have brachycephalic syndrome. An average Shih Tzu can set you back between $1,500 and $6,500 for a new puppy. Spinal disk ruptures may occur when your dog jumps from a very high place or experiences traumatic injury. Environmental allergies and cleaning products can also harm your dogs skin.