Are Shih Tzus Good For First Time Dog Owners?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Yes, the Shih Tzu can be a good choice for a first-time dog owner

. Their friendly nature and desire to be close to their humans can make them a great choice. That doesn't mean that these pups aren't hard work to raise and train.

Why you shouldn't buy a Shih Tzu?

Many Shih Tzus live a good long life. But unfortunately

they can suffer from serious kidney and liver diseases, knee problems, eye diseases, itchy skin allergies, and more

.

What do I need to know before I get a Shih Tzu?


Shih Tzus have long, flowing coats, which require daily brushing and maintenance to avoid tangles and matting

. Health: Shih Tzus are generally a healthy breed with a life span of 12 to 14 years. Like all purebreds, however, there may be some health issues, like hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and eye disease.

Is Shih Tzu high maintenance?

The Shih Tzu is an energetic, vibrant little dog with a surprisingly

low-maintenance

and easygoing temperament. The only thing they love more than following their humans around their house is being petted and pampered! They'll happily sit in your lap for hours, and can even be prone to laziness.

What is the calmest dog to have?

  • English Bulldogs. It's easy to write these hefty pups off as lazy, but English Bulldogs welcome the frequent exercise they need in order to stay trim. …
  • Great Pyrenees. …
  • French Bulldogs. …
  • Bichon Frises. …
  • Greyhounds. …
  • Scottish Deerhound. …
  • Golden Retriever.

What's the easiest dog to train?

  • Border Collie. Prized for its instincts and working ability, the Border Collie is thought to be the most intelligent and easy to train dog. …
  • Poodle. …
  • Miniature Schnauzer. …
  • Labrador Retriever. …
  • German Shepherd. …
  • Bearded Collie.

What are the disadvantages of Shih Tzu?

  • Those gorgeous coats can be high maintenance. The Shih Tzu who is rocking a longer hairstyle will need almost daily brushing. …
  • They need a high-quality food. …
  • Can be stubborn. …
  • Prone to health issues.

Is it better to have a male or female Shih Tzu?

Our experience is that

male ShihTzu are usually more affectionate, exuberant, and attentive as compared to females

. They seek your attention and are very attached to their people. They also tend to be more steadfast, reliable, and less moody.

Can a Shih Tzu bite?

Even though a Shih Tzu is little, this is a fierce action that rightfully scares owners. So, as we touched on,

most Shih Tzu will have a nipping problem

. While every dog breed is capable of severe aggression which includes biting, it is very rare with this breed.

Are Shih Tzus easy to potty train?

Shih Tzu puppies are notoriously difficult to housebreak. However,

with a little time and consistency, you can train your to use the bathroom correctly

. Create a set routine, feed it at the same times each day, and make frequent trips to a consistent potty spot.

Do Shih Tzus bark a lot?


The Shih Tzu is a breed prone to barking

. They tend to bark at people and dogs passing the window, or off in the distance when walking. They love to bark at the front door when visitors arrive as if saying please pet me, bark.

How do you pick up a Shih Tzu?

Are Shih Tzu the best dog?


Shih tzu are renowned for their perky, happy temperaments

. They are lively and friendly. Shih tzu tend to get along well with people of all ages and with other dogs as well as other pets of different species. Rarely you will find a snippy shih tzu, but most are very sweet.

Are Shih Tzus smart or dumb?


Shih Tzus are not the smartest dogs

. According to Stanley Coren, the Shih Tzu has the lowest degree of obedience & working intelligence. Out of 138 dogs, they're ranked the 128th breed. However, their ability to adapt and understand human emotions is what makes them intelligent.

Are Shih Tzus smelly dogs?


No, it is not normal for your Shih Tzu to have terrible body odor

. These dogs are usually clean little pets, sweet, cuddly and minimal shedders. The first thing you should do is to have your vet examine him thoroughly to see if an underlying health issue is responsible for this smelly situation.

Are Shih Tzu calm dogs?

Since the Shih Tzu is

calm, even-tempered

, and enjoys moderate activity, they make excellent pets for children. They also have no prey-drive, so you can rest assured that, as long as your kids are respectful to the dog, they won't ever have any issues with the Shih Tzu.

What is the sweetest dog breed?

  • Labrador Retriever. Advertisement. …
  • Greyhound. …
  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. …
  • Golden Retriever. …
  • American Pit Bull Terrier. …
  • Old English Sheepdog. …
  • Irish Wolfhounds. …
  • Collie.

What dog is best behaved?

  • Beagle.
  • Bernese Mountain Dog.
  • Boston Terrier.
  • Bull Terrier.
  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
  • Collie.
  • Golden Retriever.
  • Labrador Retriever.

What's the hardest dog to train?

  1. Beagles. A Beagle has a nose for everything – literally. …
  2. Rottweiler. This one is a bit controversial, but here's the breakdown on this breed. …
  3. Siberian Husky. Most people would agree that a Siberian Husky is a gorgeous dog. …
  4. Basset Hound. …
  5. Chinese Shar-Pei. …
  6. Afghan Hound.

What is the most loyal dog?

  • #8: Yorkshire Terrier. …
  • #7: Dobermann Pinscher. …
  • #6: German Shepherd. …
  • #5: Golden Retriever. …
  • #4: Staffordshire Bull Terrier. …
  • #3: Labrador Retriever. …
  • #2: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. …
  • #1: Xoloitzcuintli.

What is the most difficult dog to own?

  • Rottweiler. The first impression you get with a Rottweiler is their sheer size. …
  • American Pit Bull Terrier. …
  • Siberian Husky. …
  • Bullmastiff. …
  • Chinese Shar-Pei. …
  • Afghan Hound. …
  • Basset Hound. …
  • Beagle.

Do Shih Tzu like to cuddle?

Shih Tzus were (and are!) prized for their companionship, and these adorable, plush canines are deeply loyal, affectionate, and

always down to cuddle

, which is why they're widely loved across class lines today. The Shih Tzu is family-friendly and adaptable, and their gorgeous locks are enchanting.

Which is better beagle or Shih Tzu?


The Beagle comes out on top if you are looking for a breed that requires no-fuss grooming

. In contrast, the Shih Tzu has a breathtaking coat that is highly demanding to maintain. You don't have to worry much about grooming a Beagle. Regular brushing is enough to manage its shedding.

How much is a female Shih Tzu?

Criteria Average US Price
Mature female (1-year-old)


$1,200
Imperial Shih Tzu $1,900 Breeder without AKC registration $1,000

When should I start training my Shih Tzu puppy?

When to Start Shih Tzu Puppy Training

This is a good questions because years ago, experts recommended that you wait until they were “old enough” usually 6 months of age and had completed their full serious of vaccinations. Today, we know that puppy training needs to begin

as soon as you take your dog home

.

How do I potty train my 2 month old Shih Tzu?

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.