The average Shih Tzu will stand between nine and ten and a half inches at the withers. An adult Shih Tzu will weigh nine to sixteen pounds and should be approximately the same length from the withers to the base of the tail. This is an ideal size, so long as your Shih Tzu is compact and solid. The best way to gauge this is by measuring your Shih Tzu from shoulder to floor and from the base of the tail to the end of its head.
In the United States, the Shih Tzu belongs to the toy group of dogs, so it is not uncommon to see the same breed in shelters. Unless you are adopting the dog from a shelter, you may be unable to see the parents. However, you can contact a responsible breeder who will tell you about their parents and give you an estimate of the adult size. This information is especially useful if you’re unsure of the size of your Shih Tzu puppy.
The standard chart shows the height and weight of the Shih Tzu, but it does not tell you how big an adult Shih Tzu will be. This is due to the fact that Imperial Shih Tzus are smaller than standard Shih Tzus. If you’re planning to adopt a Shih Tzu, it’s best to consult an expert, but it’s never a bad idea to have an estimate.
Eye problems in Shih Tzus are quite common, and if left untreated, can lead to corneal ulceration. Another common problem is proptosis, or dislodged eyeball. Proptosis causes eyelashes to rub against the eye. Similarly, progressive retinal atrophy is a degenerative disease of the retina’s visual cells. Dry eye can also cause conjunctivitis and redness.
This breed has small, short legs, and is generally a lap dog. Shih Tzus enjoy spending time in their owner’s lap, playing with their toys, and greeting guests. They need regular walks and plenty of indoor playtime. During the summer, Shih Tzus are extremely sensitive to heat, and you should keep them indoors or in an air-conditioned room if possible. They are susceptible to heat exhaustion.
The average Shih Tzu is nine to sixteen inches tall. They can weigh between nine and sixteen pounds. Their double coat is soft and long and can be found in 14 different shades. The coat also features three different markings, including a small white spot on the forehead. This mark is known as the „Star of Buddha.”
The average lifespan of a Shih Tzu is between eight and ten years. By contrast, a standard breed can live as long as fourteen years. Intentionally breeding small dogs is not only irresponsible, but it also breeds an image that smaller dogs are acceptable, leading to a decrease in breed size. Moreover, the public is often influenced by such practices, which can be harmful for both dogs and owners.
As you can see, Shih Tzu puppies grow steadily for their first year. This period is filled with growth and you can use a growth chart to track your puppy’s progress. Some Shih Tzus are prone to breathing problems due to Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BAS). These dogs have short noses and jaws. If they have this condition, they may have difficulty breathing and may develop collapsed larynx.
A Shih Tzu’s face and ears need daily attention. Daily brushing is necessary because their ears grow hair inside. If they get frequent ear infections, you may have to pluck this hair. The face is also an area that requires regular attention as the dog gets dirty after eating. If your Shih Tzu is prone to overheating, it is important to wash it every day. This will help keep it healthy and happy.
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