Shih Tzus can be a pleasure or a pain depending on your situation and, like any breed, there are pros and cons. Here are some things to consider:
Advantage: They have the ideal temperament for singles or couples with older children who are dogs of people: outgoing, confident and alert. While they may appear somewhat arrogant to look at, the breed generally possesses a sweet temperament. You can go from being the ultimate TV junkie companion to being a playful pet just by hanging up a toy or tossing a treat. These little ones seem to know that they are irresistible and enjoy being treated like royalty. But all the pampering with which their owners lavish them are returned a hundred times more with their fierce loyalty.
Con: not always good for babies or young children
Because they are used to being the center of attention, they may be jealous of babies or young children who constantly need adult supervision. And an older Shih Tzu can break down if disturbed by boisterous children who don’t respect his space. But some are more tolerant, and if the puppy and child are properly presented at an early stage, they may get along.
Advantage: the breed requires a minimum of exercise.
Unlike other action-loving breeds, they are generally content with a short walk around the block or indoor play sessions. If you have a garden, letting it out for short periods during the day will excite you, but this breed is also suitable for apartment dwellers.
Con: High maintenance when it comes to grooming
It is a long haired breed, and without regular brushing it can become a tangled and knotted mess. If you can’t commit to taking time each day to comb your dog’s coat, you will need to make regular appointments with your local dog groomer to have it trimmed frequently to keep its coat short and clean. They also require a weekly bath and nail trimming.
Pro: a legendary story
If you want a piece of history wandering around your house, look no further than him. Based on appearances of the breed in ancient Chinese paintings, it is believed to have been around since 624 AD and while the breed’s origin is a subject of much debate, it was known that they were part of the Chinese court.
Con: a history of health problems
While they are generally healthy creatures, Shih Tzus are subject to a kidney disease called renal dysplasia. Also, due to their short faces, this breed must be handled more carefully than other breeds – a Shih Tzu’s respiratory system is compromised by its short nose, so do not smoke or use harsh chemical cleaning products around it. Additionally, short-faced dogs are at high risk for heatstroke, so it is essential to minimize your dog’s outdoor activity during the summer.
Advantage: all cool kids have
Because they are amazing, they have been a staple in the American Kennel Club’s 10 Most Popular Breeds since 2004.
Con: all cool kids have Shih Tzus
The burden of any popular breed is abuse by puppy breeders and backyard breeders, who damage the gene pool by mass breeding dogs for profit and not for breed improvement.
So if you think a Shitzu is for you, start your search with a breeder recommendation from the AKC or a breed-specific club (in this case, the American Shih Tzu Club); These resources will guide you in the right direction. Never buy a puppy from the Internet with the “Buy It Now” tab. Instant gratification is fine until you discover that your pup is fraught with health problems due to poor parenting.