The Shih Tsu is one of the few dog breeds that can make you fall in love with it at first sight. It is a lively, loving, and loyal dog that makes the perfect friend for life. Unfortunately, they're not immune to abuse and neglect causing them to be handed over to animal shelters and rescue groups. The lucky ones end up in a shelter where later on, a loving family looking to adopt a Shih Tzu would come along and give it a good home. However, the unlucky ones are released in the wild, where they fall victims to the elements and other dogs, or they're euthanized because they linger in the shelters for too long.
Therefore, if you are someone that is in the market to adopt a Shih Tzu, you must first decide if this dog is the right fit for you. These dogs were bred for a life of luxury, they've laid in the laps of emperors and empresses, and they were given as gifts to important dignitaries. These dogs cannot survive exposed to the elements. They're very dependent on human contact, and their only job is to be your friend.
Adopting a Shih Tzu might not seem like a hard decision, but you must understand that these dogs take some work on your part to maintain. Here are few things you should be aware of before you adopt one of these little bundles of cuteness:
First thing to know before you adopt a Shih Tzu: these dogs are high maintenance. They demand constant grooming in order to keep their hair tangle and knot free. You will also have to give them monthly haircuts if you are going to keep the hair at show length.
Second thing to know before you adopt a Shih Tzu: they're highly sensitive to heat; therefore, keeping them inside during the hottest parts of the day is crucial. You must keep them from the cold also. Therefore, it would be a lot easier if you keep them inside all year round.
Third thing to know before you adopt a Shih Tzu: they do not like to be left alone for long periods. Remember, they were bred to be companions. Therefore, if left alone for extended lengths of time, they may develop behavioral problems.
Fourth thing to know before you adopt a Shih Tzu: unlike most other dogs, they're highly susceptible to allergies, which can be a big problem. You should abstain from feeding your dog corn based foods, which may cause itching, shedding, gassiness and loose stools.
Fifth thing to know before you adopt a Shih Tzu: keep in mind that health problems are also going to be a factor as with any other dog, but the Shih Tzu is a breed of dog that are more prone to certain illnesses such as hip dysplasia, renal problems, and cataracts.
Now that you have a little idea of what you may be getting yourself into, I hope you are still willing to adopt a Shih Tzu. If you go through with the adoption, please do not abandon them like their previous owner did. I don't think any dog can go through that trauma multiple times.
Get more great information on the Shih Tzu from the following sources:
Shih Tzu Allergies
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Shih Tzu Information
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