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Caring for a Shih Tzu Puppy
A Shih Tzu is a fragile, gentle dog. They
are bred to be pampered and they know it!
Shih Tzus must be protected at all times from harsh environments. They are meant to be
permanent house guest and they are NEVER to be boarded outside in a doghouse. This said, let me mention some of the
things that will help you and your baby live a long and happy life together.
Rule #1
NO SOY, this means check everything that you
feed your Shih Tzu for soy, such as, dog food, snacks, treats, crackers, peanut butter, cheese, anything that goes into the
dog's mouth.
They have an allergic reaction to soy which causes skin irritations and the dog with scratch and dig
incisively.
Rule #2
Grooming: One of the best things about a Shih
Tzu is their beautiful long silky coats. But that is also one of the most time consuming things about them. Daily
brushing is necessary and also provides a good bonding time for you and your pup. Use a wire brush, the kind without
the balls on the end, and a good detangle comb for easy grooming. A cute puppy cut eliminates some of the grooming time
and is easy to care for weekly. A trip to a good groomer once a month or so keeps a Shih Tzu looking good.
Do not
use human shampoo on your Shih Tzu, their body pH is different from humans. Pick a good quality dog shampoo, I
use one for the body and a "no tears" type for the head.
Rule #3
I always leave food and water down at all times during the day. The food is taken up around 6:00 in the evening,
but water is always available for them. The top dog foods are the best for the dog. They are more expensive and
require a trip to a pet store, but they are best for a healthy long life.
Rule #4
As with any puppy, they will chew on anything. While they have small teeth and can't
do a lot of damage, they will damage anything if given enough time to gnaw at it. Always have chew toys or stuffed
animals to keep them busy. I always like to keep chew toys in the freezer to soothe the teething pups.
Rule #5
A Shih Tzu puppy will love children and other pets.
You must be very careful though with small child as the pups can be hurt very easily with rough handling. As for other
pets, a Shih Tzu knows no fear, they think they are KINGS after all!
A puppy may run up to a large animal thinking
they have found a new friend. Always guard the new puppy until you are sure they will not be harmed by their "new
friend".
Rule #6
If at anytime you find you can not keep
one of my babies, I require that you notify me immediately. I will take the baby back or help you place the puppy in
a new home. I do not want any of them to be placed in a shelter or with someone that may harm them.
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